General Info

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2035508]I recently leased an apartment for the first time. In the Philippines the landlord retains the 2 months bond. My understanding is that upon termination of the lease the landlord waits for all bills (which for electricity can be 3 months) before refunding the bond. Has anyone had difficulty getting the bond back? Is it a sensible idea to not pay the last month rent prior to termination to reduce the exposure?[/QUOTE]I would say yes it is. In my experience (rented 2 houses and 2 apartments) they will find any excuse to deduct some of the deposit from you. Had one idiot who asked why I hadn't cleaned the gutters that were attached to the roof, as he handed them to me in a clean condition. Had another one deduct the cost of changing two busted light bulbs in a maids room. I have found landlords to be petty and mean and totally recommend that you withhold the last months rental dependent on the return of your deposit.

One thing I learnt was to take a video of the place the day I arrived. Much the same way as I take videos of cars I rent. Later this can prevent the " but it was broken / damaged / discoloured before I moved in etc.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2034053]The key is in your statement "It's been several years since I visited Gensan. . ".

The whole thing has CHANGED Shark. I used to visit Zamboanga too for work and roam around the public market (but that was in 1998/1999)/. I cannot visit Zamboanga any more.

Same for GenSan. I used to go there many many times for work, and at that time it was safe.

The situation has changed guys. Do your due diligence before you visit there.[/QUOTE]I apologize if my post was misleading. It wasn't my intention. I agree totally with everyone who has posted things have changed and are not safe. As RK states, "the situation has changed, do your due diligence before visiting there"! Listen and stay away. No pussy is worth your life!

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2035674]I would say yes it is. In my experience (rented 2 houses and 2 apartments) they will find any excuse to deduct some of the deposit from you. Had one idiot who asked why I hadn't cleaned the gutters that were attached to the roof, as he handed them to me in a clean condition. Had another one deduct the cost of changing two busted light bulbs in a maids room. I have found landlords to be petty and mean and totally recommend that you withhold the last months rental dependent on the return of your deposit.

One thing I learnt was to take a video of the place the day I arrived. Much the same way as I take videos of cars I rent. Later this can prevent the " but it was broken / damaged / discoloured before I moved in etc.[/QUOTE]My experience has been the opposite. I've rented several places, both commercial and residential, and have never had a single peso withheld. The landlords with whom I've dealt have been honest, forthright, and stayed to the terms of the leases I had signed. So I guess it's a question of paying your money and taking your choice.

GE.

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2035508]I recently leased an apartment for the first time. I am used to the protection of the Rental tenancy board in Australia that retains the bond. In the Philippines the landlord retains the 2 months bond. My understanding is that upon termination of the lease the landlord waits for all bills (which for electricity can be 3 months) before refunding the bond. Has anyone had difficulty getting the bond back? Is it a sensible idea to not pay the last month rent prior to termination to reduce the exposure?[/QUOTE]In Cebu where I rent on a long term basis I have never had issues but as others say it depends where you are etc.

Landlords worldwide can be shifty not just the Philippines but FF has a good idea also re the video.

If you need advice for Cebu PM me Ms A.

I'm sorry if this doesn't exactly fit here, but the U.S. Politics thread apparently no longer exists.

It seems reasonable that various agencies in the U.S. government might have done some economic impact analysis prior to Obama's announcing the Pacific Pivot, in which 60% of Naval assets were committed to the Pacific. I doubt this underworld of bribery involving Naval personnel--nor the extensive cost of investigating it--was part of the analysis. "Six figures" in expenditures for prostitutes? That's a lot of p4p and a boost to the economy.

And so maybe rather than blaming each other for driving up prices when somebody in our forum seems to have overpaid for his nightly recreation, we should give the U.S. Navy its due regard. It's those damn sailors driving up prices.

Hopefully this media source doesn't block you by trying to extort subscripton payments.

Another recent story from the WP, which won't let me back in until I pay the paper, noted that much of the prostitution bribery was delivered in Manila.

[URL]https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/navy-captain-enters-guilty-plea-in-massive-bribery-case/2015/01/15/b09688ba-9ced-11e4-a7ee-526210d665b4_story.html?utm_term=.bc13dae2ddb2[/URL]

[URL]https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/former-admiral-sentenced-to-18-months-in-fat-leonard-case/2017/05/17/1a11869c-3b06-11e7-a058-ddbb23c75d82_story.html?utm_term=.4d63d559746c[/URL]

I have planned an overseas SE Asian trip with a long time regular of mine most likely HK or Singapore. I have not tried to take a Filipino girl out of the country before. A Manila bar girl I know (not the girl I have promised to take on a trip) was convinced by her friend to travel to work in a Japanese KTV in Singapore. , Bought a ticket (one way) but did not have a lot of spending money. Got blocked by immigration and refused exit. Told immigration visiting friend but they didn't believe her. Regularly I see girls corralled off for interviews by immigration. However I have met lots of girls who have travelled on local SE Asian trips funded by their foreign BF. What is the secret to getting past immigration. Do you have to travel with them? Is it a return ticket? Sorry another FR based upon a question. Hopefully my FR balance allows my recent multiple questions.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2035656]Most Filipino landlords will try to keep some or all of your 2 months deposit. As a foreigner you should not sign any contract requiring you to wait longer than 3 weeks to recover your deposit. You should also insist on one month's rent for the deposit. If the landlord does not lower it, take your business elsewhere. The problem with trying to consume the last month's rent included in the 2 months deposit is that you must have the luxury of planning your departure months ahead of time. If unseen circumstances force you to move within a week after you have paid your rent in advance for that month, the landlord could end up with 2 months and 3 weeks of rent in his pocket. Trying to get a Filipino to return your deposit is not much different from trying to get him to repay money he "borrowed" from you. Expect the landlord to suddenly become elusive or to not have the cash on hand. I have had to get the Barangay captain involved and even retain the services of friendly policemen. These methods resulted in the prompt return of the money.

However, it is best to avoid the drama by limiting the deposit to one month of rent. As an expat you don't know when you'll have to move in a hurry and you will not have much time to play games with local landlords, especially if you must leave the country in a hurry when mongering goes wrong. Filipino neighbors are nosy and inconsiderate, if you have problems with a native neighbor, expect to be the one moving as your Filipino landlord will most likely side with his countrymen. A month to month rental contract with one month's rent as a deposit is the most flexible way to go. You don't want to find yourself in the situation of making an in-country move and having to come up with 3 months of rent to move into your new place while the previous landlord is holding on to 2 months of rent.[/QUOTE]Thanks for all the feedback regarding my rental bond fears. Unfortunately I have already signed for 2 months bond and 1 month advance as I was told this is the common practice. The land lady is a Filipino married to a foreigner so hopefully there will be no dramas.

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2036998]I have planned an overseas SE Asian trip with a long time regular of mine most likely HK or Singapore. I have not tried to take a Filipino girl out of the country before.Bought a ticket (one way) but did not have a lot of spending money. Got blocked by immigration and refused exit.[/QUOTE]Just did this several weeks ago: took a Filipino from Manila (from terminal 2 on Philippines Air) to Bangkok: 21 year-old, brand new passport, first trip abroad. Yes, they stopped her at immigration and took her into small room to speak with agent. Fortunately, I had stood near line (there was separate queue for foreigners and citizens) to observe her going thru. After I while, I was called over and learned that agent had examined her wallet (which had no cash), her phone and I-pad and all photos (we known each other 1+ year) to determine who she was travelling with and the nature of relationship. Verdict was: agent (who was a female about 30 year old) is empowered to make the call. They will assess you to make sure your intention and relationship, examine your passport, and make you sign a statement detailing every country you intend to visit, the travel dates, as well as accepting responsibility to cover all her expenses and well-being. And informing that you are criminally liability for failing to abide by the agreement. You must show confirmed tickets for both of you together on return flights. All-in-all, a rather straightforward procedure. Just get to airport in plenty of time. We know they do this to protect the girls, so nothing wrong with that.

This is good to know, CM. Thanks. I will try to find a non-Filipino landlord but am now aware of the risks.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2035656]Most Filipino landlords will try to keep some or all of your 2 months deposit. As a foreigner you should not sign any contract requiring you to wait longer than 3 weeks to recover your deposit. You should also insist on one month's rent for the deposit. If the landlord does not lower it, take your business elsewhere. The problem with trying to consume the last month's rent included in the 2 months deposit is that you must have the luxury of planning your departure months ahead of time. If unseen circumstances force you to move within a week after you have paid your rent in advance for that month, the landlord could end up with 2 months and 3 weeks of rent in his pocket. Trying to get a Filipino to return your deposit is not much different from trying to get him to repay money he "borrowed" from you. Expect the landlord to suddenly become elusive or to not have the cash on hand. I have had to get the Barangay captain involved and even retain the services of friendly policemen. These methods resulted in the prompt return of the money.

However, it is best to avoid the drama by limiting the deposit to one month of rent. As an expat you don't know when you'll have to move in a hurry and you will not have much time to play games with local landlords, especially if you must leave the country in a hurry when mongering goes wrong. Filipino neighbors are nosy and inconsiderate, if you have problems with a native neighbor, expect to be the one moving as your Filipino landlord will most likely side with his countrymen. A month to month rental contract with one month's rent as a deposit is the most flexible way to go. You don't want to find yourself in the situation of making an in-country move and having to come up with 3 months of rent to move into your new place while the previous landlord is holding on to 2 months of rent.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2036998]I have planned an overseas SE Asian trip with a long time regular of mine most likely HK or Singapore. I have not tried to take a Filipino girl out of the country before. A Manila bar girl I know (not the girl I have promised to take on a trip) was convinced by her friend to travel to work in a Japanese KTV in Singapore. , Bought a ticket (one way) but did not have a lot of spending money. Got blocked by immigration and refused exit. Told immigration visiting friend but they didn't believe her. Regularly I see girls corralled off for interviews by immigration. However I have met lots of girls who have travelled on local SE Asian trips funded by their foreign BF. What is the secret to getting past immigration. Do you have to travel with them? Is it a return ticket? Sorry another FR based upon a question. Hopefully my FR balance allows my recent multiple questions.[/QUOTE]Best to PM me Ms A as there are many stupidities around this subject mainly the immigration officers themselves. Have done this many times and depending who you are with and if she is employed etc, many variants on the same theme.

Many have failed to get past this and is strange to some that a citizen is not allowed to leave for a holiday but this is the Philippines! Also the country visited is important IMHO as Singapore always harder than say other Asian places.

Affidavits from you, her parents, work / employer letters and certificates even stuff from her university can help but sometimes don't. Is a weird and wonderful world we live in LOL.

PM as I have had lots experience in this as well as taking 2 cuties with me around Asia.

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2036998]I have planned an overseas SE Asian trip with a long time regular of mine most likely HK or Singapore. I have not tried to take a Filipino girl out of the country before. A Manila bar girl I know (not the girl I have promised to take on a trip) was convinced by her friend to travel to work in a Japanese KTV in Singapore. , Bought a ticket (one way) but did not have a lot of spending money. Got blocked by immigration and refused exit. Told immigration visiting friend but they didn't believe her. Regularly I see girls corralled off for interviews by immigration. However I have met lots of girls who have travelled on local SE Asian trips funded by their foreign BF. What is the secret to getting past immigration. Do you have to travel with them? Is it a return ticket? Sorry another FR based upon a question. Hopefully my FR balance allows my recent multiple questions.[/QUOTE]I've travelled overseas with Pinays. I never had problems when the Pinay's passport already had stamps from previous overseas travel. No questions, not pulled aside. One time it was a young Pinay lady's first time going overseas (Hong Kong) with a virgin passport. The "immigration" lady officer set us a few meters apart and asked us similar question. "How did you meet? Where did you meet? How long have you known each other?" etc. They really do treat their own citizens as children "for their protection. " My current assumption is the departing Pinay needs to convince the "immigration" officer she's not going to do anything to make the Philippines lose face, such as work in a nudie bar, or stay and work illegally, or transport illegal substances, or whatever. "Visiting a friend" won't cut it.

After a foreign stamp or two in the passport, I think they figure the woman knows how to take care of herself and stay out of trouble, I. E. Not embarass the country. No problems after the first trip.

[QUOTE=MrWoolyBooly;2037177]I've travelled overseas with Pinays. I never had problems when the Pinay's passport already had stamps from previous overseas travel. No questions, not pulled aside. One time it was a young Pinay lady's first time going overseas (Hong Kong) with a virgin passport. The "immigration" lady officer set us a few meters apart and asked us similar question. "How did you meet? Where did you meet? How long have you known each other?" etc. They really do treat their own citizens as children "for their protection. " My current assumption is the departing Pinay needs to convince the "immigration" officer she's not going to do anything to make the Philippines lose face, such as work in a nudie bar, or stay and work illegally, or transport illegal substances, or whatever. "Visiting a friend" won't cut it.

After a foreign stamp or two in the passport, I think they figure the woman knows how to take care of herself and stay out of trouble, I. E. Not embarass the country. No problems after the first trip.[/QUOTE]While I would generally concur with you WB I know many examples where even that does not help.

One of my cuties works at the airport with the airlines and at times is on the shift where she waits to be told who is offloaded and am surprised who is.

Another in her 30's with kids and work going to Singapore for a holiday (package tour via an agency) was offloaded and got no / minimal refund. So is hard to say for sure what immigration will do at times.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2037100]Many have failed to get past this and is strange to some that a citizen is not allowed to leave for a holiday but this is the Philippines! Also the country visited is important..[/QUOTE]Not strange as some other countries do they same for (or to) their citizens. It may be for the best intentions or else they just don't want the expense of aiding their nationals or providing Consular service to nuisances abroad. No different from US in this respect. Or else, the destination country applies leverage to keep out unmoneyed visitors.

Since we all have 'lots of experience' with this subject, imagine how much the experience varies. Key factor IMHO is how the immigration agent perceives you. And her.

[QUOTE=MrWoolyBooly;2037177]
After a foreign stamp or two in the passport, I think they figure the woman knows how to take care of herself and stay out of trouble, I. E. Not embarass the country. No problems after the first trip.[/QUOTE]While our monger intentions is to have a good outside Philippines holiday with a cute filipina the reality is that there are probably (possibly) some not so well intentioned travellers that would want to take poor girls out of Philippines and put them to work overseas. The selling price for a massage in AC is P300 per hour, the equivalent price in my home town P4000, then add extras. So the financial rewards are there for the less honourable members of society. That we go through that same protection and we pass, that's a good thing.

And I think that there are more likely to be filipinos trafficing the girls than it is to be tall single white males.

BD.

I would suggest there is less problem getting out of your own country than there would be getting in to another. Your arrival point is where all the questions about your intentions start.

[QUOTE=AussieGaigin;2037758]I would suggest there is less problem getting out of your own country than there would be getting in to another. Your arrival point is where all the questions about your intentions start.[/QUOTE]In any civilized country, there are no problems for citizens to leave. In the Philippines, however...

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2037648]And I think that there are more likely to be filipinos trafficing the girls than it is to be tall single white males.

BD.[/QUOTE]That is very true, some are based in the destination country and scam there when they arrive. The UAE is full of runaway DHs / house girls who used a Filipino agency and the pinoy / pinay in the UAE who represent that agency then change the contract etc.

I know many Filipinos but some of them (these for example) are scum.

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2036998]I have planned an overseas SE Asian trip with a long time regular of mine most likely HK or Singapore. [/QUOTE]I've taken three Filipinas out of the Philippines to Hong Kong. All with virgin Passports. All were early 20's. The first had a job as a helper at a private school. Not sure what she told the immigration officer, but there was no delay. This was about 10 years ago. I wasn't aware at the time of any problems at the time so I didn't pay any attention. They might have been less strict then. We met on a dating site.

The second I also met on a dating site and was a student. They took her off to the side and interviewed her for several minutes. I was waiting between immigration and security, when another immigration officer saw me, and suggested I go into the area where they were questioning her. After a few questions to me, and looking at our itinerary that I had on hardcopy, they made us both sign some forms that we would return on the specific dates etc. I told them I was returning to the USA directly from Hong Kong and they let me annotate that on the form. A Cebu Pacific agent had come looking for us. We were the last to board the flight. At the time, I was still unaware that these checks would happen, but read all about them after the trip.

The third I had met in Angeles. Knowing the situation, we agreed to tell them that we met on facebook. We also arrived early at the airport so that if we were delayed, we could still make the flight. We went through the separate immigration lines, and I then walked towards the officer who was processing her. The female officer was very friendly in her questioning and asked how long we knew each other (2 years), if we had traveled before (Baguio, Butuan, Davao). She wanted to see pictures from Baguio. My girlfriend was looking for them on her tablet but was having trouble finding them. So I took out my laptop and started to look for them when the immigration officer saw a picture of her, her parents, and I together (just taken a few days before). She asked if those were her parents. When my girlfriend replied yes, the immigration officer immediately stamped her passport and let her through.

In a few months we will be going to Singapore and will be interesting to see what happens with a non virgin passport.

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2036998]What is the secret to getting past immigration. Do you have to travel with them? Is it a return ticket? Sorry another FR based upon a question. Hopefully my FR balance allows my recent multiple questions.[/QUOTE]To increase the girl's chances getting past immigration and onto her flight, have her take a class offered by BI. Designed to educate Filipinas who will work or permanently immigrate overseas about the possible dangers they might face. One day class is available in Manila and / or Cebu for 400 php.

Granted-It is nice to to take a pretty young Philippina to another country and have a nice vacation like boyfriend and girlfriend.

However on the girl, end she is thinking how to look for a long time relationship and get out of Philippines. There are plenty of places in Philippines itself where you can have a nice vacation. This will eliminate all problems with immigration. You actually do not know what immigration people write on your profile. If the girl fails to come back they will know who took her out of the country. Do you need the hassle?

I have taken only Thai girls outside the country to have a vacation. There are no restrictions.

[QUOTE=Paul2020;2038098]I've taken three Filipinas out of the Philippines to Hong Kong. All with virgin Passports. All were early 20's. The first had a job as a helper at a private school. Not sure what she told the immigration officer, but there was no delay. This was about 10 years ago. I wasn't aware at the time of any problems at the time so I didn't pay any attention. They might have been less strict then. We met on a dating site.

The second I also met on a dating site and was a student. They took her off to the side and interviewed her for several minutes. I was waiting between immigration and security, when another immigration officer saw me, and suggested I go into the area where they were questioning her. After a few questions to me, and looking at our itinerary that I had on hardcopy, they made us both sign some forms that we would return on the specific dates etc. I told them I was returning to the USA directly from Hong Kong and they let me annotate that on the form. A Cebu Pacific agent had come looking for us. We were the last to board the flight. At the time, I was still unaware that these checks would happen, but read all about them after the trip.

The third I had met in Angeles. Knowing the situation, we agreed to tell them that we met on facebook. We also arrived early at the airport so that if we were delayed, we could still make the flight. We went through the separate immigration lines, and I then walked towards the officer who was processing her. The female officer was very friendly in her questioning and asked how long we knew each other (2 years), if we had traveled before (Baguio, Butuan, Davao). She wanted to see pictures from Baguio. My girlfriend was looking for them on her tablet but was having trouble finding them. So I took out my laptop and started to look for them when the immigration officer saw a picture of her, her parents, and I together (just taken a few days before). She asked if those were her parents. When my girlfriend replied yes, the immigration officer immediately stamped her passport and let her through.

In a few months we will be going to Singapore and will be interesting to see what happens with a non virgin passport.[/QUOTE]I have taken filipinas and viets thru SG immigration, and just had another ISG "buddy" get a girl from Laos through. So let me share my tips with you:

-Give her a minimum of 500 USD to hold, they rarely ask to look at it, but they will ask her how much $ she has (and they could ask to see it).

-Have a paper copy of the return ticket iterinary, they ask for this almost 100% of the time (and if you haven't booked a return ticket, it could be a big problem for her), don't be a cheap charlie, book the return ticket, you can always change it.

-Fill out the immigration form properly, in pen and in English, readable.

-Don't go immediately into an immigration line. Stand and watch and see who is faster and more friendly of the ICE agents. I try not to go to women with the girls, go to the men agents.

-When you enter a line, stand behind her but when its her turn, don't YOU go past the red line. She goes first. Sometimes you can catch the ICE agents eye when she is going up or is at the agent and say "we are together".

-YOU go second in case they pull her to the desk on the side (pre-immigration). You follow her over to the desk, don't go thru immigration if she is pulled aside, follow her to the desk (often the agents don't accompany the girls, just send them over to the desk on the side).

-While you are waiting for her to get passed thru the line, If another agent in another booth signals you over, just say "thanks, we are together and I am waiting for her to finish up" Don't move out of the line behind her.

-The girl needs to look the agent in the eye and answer directly (none of this shy asian girl crap). For some, singlish that the speak (fast and lots of slang) is hard to understand, so if she doesn't understand what the ICE agent asks, she should politely say "please repeat, I didn't understand the question. ".

-She needs to know WHERE you are staying in SG, exactly (its on the immigration form, but sometimes they ask the person).

This has worked like a charm for me, and again, was tested out 2 weeks ago by another ISG member and he reports it worked fine.

Good luck let us know if this works, any questions, PM me.

GG.

[QUOTE=GenevaGuy;2038396]So let me share my tips with you:-for me, and again, was tested out 2 weeks ago by another ISG member and he reports it worked fine. Good luck let us know if this works, any questions, GG.[/QUOTE]All your simple common sense suggestions are very good. Just note that departing international from Manila Terminal 2, the Filipino and Foreign queues are on opposite sides, so cannot go through together -- wait and watch for her. I'd contend how you are perceived is a paramount factor, so both need to dress 'appropriate'. They will look through phone, whatsapp, tablet photos, et'al. Make sure hers are cleaned up and have photos of you -- and chat logs with you -- for them to see.

Just left Manila 5 hours ago and have a one night layover in Tokyo. I decided take this option as the ticket was $200 less. One night hotel room is less than $80 and it breaks up the flights. I am hoping I will have less jet lag.

Flew ANA and everything was timely and orderly. In plane meal and service was great. Lots of overhead carry on space. Didn't see anyone with more than one carry on and one personal bag.

Immigration was quick and orderly with officer checking your questionnaire before being allowed to enter the line. One single line with an officer at the front of the line directing you to the next available booth. One minute later, fingerprinted, photographed and passport stamped you are in Japan.

After getting my luggage and passed customs I realized I didn't have any cash with me! I went to Information desk and asked if my hotel had a shuttle bus? She pulled out a binder and looked up the hotel and said yes and it will come in 2 hours. I then asked if taxis took credit cards and she said yes, of course. I then asked approximately how much and she replied around 1400 yen.

I went out to the taxi line and show the driver my hotel name and asked if it was 1400 yen. He said close to it but for 200 yen I could just take the bus which ran in 10 minutes. He was dumbfounded that I said let's go. The meter was actually 1210.

I am so shocked no taxi rip offs and the guy tried to save me some money!

BTW, electric motored taxi which was spacious and clean!

Oh yes one other thing, super fast wifi in the hotel.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2038622]Just left Manila 5 hours ago and have a one night layover in Tokyo. I decided take this option as the ticket was $200 less. One night hotel room is less than $80 and it breaks up the flights. I am hoping I will have less jet lag.

Flew ANA and everything was timely and orderly. In plane meal and service was great. Lots of overhead carry on space. Didn't see anyone with more than one carry on and one personal bag.

Immigration was quick and orderly with officer checking your questionnaire before being allowed to enter the line. One single line with an officer at the front of the line directing you to the next available booth. One minute later, fingerprinted, photographed and passport stamped you are in Japan.

After getting my luggage and passed customs I realized I didn't have any cash with me! I went to Information desk and asked if my hotel had a shuttle bus? She pulled out a binder and looked up the hotel and said yes and it will come in 2 hours. I then asked if taxis took credit cards and she said yes, of course. I then asked approximately how much and she replied around 1400 yen.

I went out to the taxi line and show the driver my hotel name and asked if it was 1400 yen. He said close to it but for 200 yen I could just take the bus which ran in 10 minutes. He was dumbfounded that I said let's go. The meter was actually 1210.

I am so shocked no taxi rip offs and the guy tried to save me some money!

BTW, electric motored taxi which was spacious and clean!

Oh yes one other thing, super fast wifi in the hotel.[/QUOTE]I've done that option a couple of times myself on the afternoon JAL flight. Getting out and back in to NRT is very easy and the hotels are not too expensive (although the rooms are quite small). I've recovered from jetlag quicker once back home. Of course, it takes away an evening in Manila but I never do much anyway when I know I have to awake at 5 am for a 26 hour trip back home.

[QUOTE=SaltyPete;2038651]I've done that option a couple of times myself on the afternoon JAL flight. Getting out and back in to NRT is very easy and the hotels are not too expensive (although the rooms are quite small). I've recovered from jetlag quicker once back home. Of course, it takes away an evening in Manila but I never do much anyway when I know I have to awake at 5 am for a 26 hour trip back home.[/QUOTE]I had a 14:50 flight from Manila so it was ok. Last night I had 2 girls from AC come to Manila so I didn't miss out on any action. Had double good time and the girls left around 8 am so I wasn't rushed to pack and grab lunch before heading for NAIA.

Personally I don't do morning flights anymore if I can help it. Too hard on my body. Used to hate the only flights out of BKK for me was 6 am.

Found on FB:

ATTENTION DABAWENYOS:

Guidelines for Dabawenyos covering the period of Martial Law. Please be guided accordingly.

GENERAL.

1. We will implement a "Hold and Secure" method in ensuring the security of our people.

2. Call 911 immediately to report suspicious-looking persons, materials and actions by group of persons.

3. Exercise prudence in planning your activities.

TRAVEL.

4. Travel to and from Davao City is discouraged, as well as in other places in Mindanao, unless there is an urgent matter that needs to be attended to.

5. Do not leave your residence if you do not have business or matters to attend outside.

6. Travelling via motorcycle convoys is discouraged.

CROWDED PLACES, CHURCHES AND CONCERTED ACTIVITIES.

7. Avoid crowded places.

8. Religious activities are encouraged to be conducted during daytime. Muslims observing Ramadan are encouraged to hold their activities inside mosques and residences.

9. All rallies and large-group activities should have permits from the local government.

CHECKPOINTS.

10. Ensure that you have updated vehicle registration papers, and driver's licenses.

11. Ensure that you have valid and existing licenses for your guns (License to Own and Posses Firearm ("LTOPF") and Permit to Carry ("PTC".

12. Cooperate with the AFP and PNP personnel conducting checkpoints.

13. Familiarize yourself with the contents of your own baggage. Do not accept baggage from strangers.

14. In the conduct of checkpoints, turn off your headlights and turn on your overhead lights during inspection.

15. Allow the inspectors to smoothly make the inspections.

16. Always bring a valid personal identification document.

MINORS and EVENINGS.

17. Minors are extremely discouraged to go out of their residences except when accompanied by adults.

18. Avoid going out late at night and consuming excessive alcohol.

19. Buddy system is encouraged to those who work at night especially during travel to and from work.

20. We encourage that you conduct your personal activities in the daytime.

21. Loitering in all areas is discouraged.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS.

22. Do not leave bags and other personal belongings unattended.

23. Do not leave your cars unattended for a long time.

24. Do not retain large sums of money in your residences.

BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS AND SCHOOLS.

25. Business establishments and schools are required to create emergency plans for their respective premises.

26. Business establishments and schools are encouraged to invest in private security, modern security equipment and fire extinguishing equipment.

27. Do not retain large sums of money in your premises.

28. Schools are encouraged to implement tighter security measures by properly screening guests.

TOURISTS and TOURISM ACTIVITIES.

29. Tourists are discouraged from going to areas that are not included among the main tourism areas of the city.

30. Always bring with you your passports and other proofs of identification.

[QUOTE=Omega3;2021035]P. S. Tuesday, April 11, Bohol, Philippines. Breaking News.

Local social media are abuzz with reports of pitched battle in Inabanga, Bohol, between government forces (PNP and Army) and a heavily armed bandit group, possibly led by Abu Sayaf sub-leader Abu Rami, believed to be attempting to infiltrate by boat from Mindanao.

Per initial reports: 5 bandits, plus 1 policeman and 3 Army soldiers have been killed.

P.S. Inabanga is on the northern coast of Bohol, approximately 70 km north of Tagbilaran. The ASEAN Bohol Summit had been scheduled to start April 18-22 on Panglao Island, south of Tagbilaran.[/QUOTE]My GF lives (lived) about 2 miles from gunfight location (family home). She has hightailed it out, and to date has not returned. Nobody appears to know if these visitors were invited, or self-invited.

I finished booking everything this morning, my trip will be from the 26th of June till the 13th of July "changeable", and I booked the local flights. Will be going to cebu city through cebu pacific for 4 days, then going to boracay through The Philippines airlines for 3 days, then coming back to manila for the rest of the trip using airasia. All the local flights cost me around $150, but my question is do I need to have the actual ticket with me when I go to the airport or the booking number is enough?

[QUOTE=ElNice;2040285]I finished booking everything this morning, my trip will be from the 26th of June till the 13th of July "changeable", and I booked the local flights. Will be going to cebu city through cebu pacific for 4 days, then going to boracay through The Philippines airlines for 3 days, then coming back to manila for the rest of the trip using airasia. All the local flights cost me around $150, but my question is do I need to have the actual ticket with me when I go to the airport or the booking number is enough?[/QUOTE]Depends on who is on duty. Some ask and some don't. Best to have a copy of the boooking on your tablet or cell phone to show if asked in lieu of a ticket or paper copy.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2040304]Depends on who is on duty. Some ask and some don't. Best to have a copy of the boooking on your tablet or cell phone to show if asked in lieu of a ticket or paper copy.[/QUOTE]Had to come back home for due to sickness and I looked crap, people at home booked online and reservation was at airport so no paper copy.

Arrived at Manila airport to see long line with guards checking tickets. Asked one. What if I don't have a paper ticket. He said you can't go in. Then and there I shit myself.

Ok so what to do. Probably because I was feeling like shit I thought F this I'm going in - (Cue the Ride of the Valkyries music) I chose line that was moving fastest and pushed in (not the same line guard I asked before) got to the front and said I'm going to Aust -My friends have booked online. My ticket is inside. I then started walking through briskly (there was no way I wasn't getting in there) - by the time I was 5 steps away he said Where are you going I replied my destination and by now was 10 steps away. I just kept on walking didn't look back. Whole time the adrenaline was racing through my body and this was my first trip to manila.

I was sick as and all I wanted to do was get on that bloody plane and get home.

[QUOTE=ElNice;2040285]I finished booking everything this morning, my trip will be from the 26th of June till the 13th of July "changeable", and I booked the local flights. Will be going to cebu city through cebu pacific for 4 days, then going to boracay through The Philippines airlines for 3 days, then coming back to manila for the rest of the trip using airasia. All the local flights cost me around $150, but my question is do I need to have the actual ticket with me when I go to the airport or the booking number is enough?[/QUOTE]The folks checking tickets for airport entry are poorly trained and inconsistent. I suggest you print out whatever you have, as the digital age hasn't totally dawned here. Cebu Pacific and PAL both allow you to check in on line and print your boarding pass, and I suggest you do so. When I'm staying at a hotel here, I'll typically check in on line, have the airline email me a copy of the boarding pass, and then have someone at the hotel print out the boarding pass. It's a system that's worked well for me. Also, having the boarding pass in hand allows you to bypass the check-in lines and go directly to the departure gate.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2040399]The folks checking tickets for airport entry are poorly trained and inconsistent. I suggest you print out whatever you have, as the digital age hasn't totally dawned here. Cebu Pacific and PAL both allow you to check in on line and print your boarding pass, and I suggest you do so. When I'm staying at a hotel here, I'll typically check in on line, have the airline email me a copy of the boarding pass, and then have someone at the hotel print out the boarding pass. It's a system that's worked well for me. Also, having the boarding pass in hand allows you to bypass the check-in lines and go directly to the departure gate.

GE.[/QUOTE]As you say the country is full of inconsistencies. My experiences:

I use [URL]tripit.com[/URL] for my flight itineraries and just show them the booking details on my phone. This is quite convenient as I don't carry paper copies. This has worked for me for the past 6 years.

I have done various forms of online checkins and some airports still require a visit to the check-in counter. That was my experience with Cebu Pacific where I had gone directly to the gate and they had off loaded me as I had not gone to the check-in counter.

Interestingly to segway to "credit card" the bookings always say to present with the same credit card as the booking was made. He tickets I've purchased for pinay, they have never been asked. I was asked once by Singapore Airlines at NAIA and failed! I had to provide additional credit card as a backup payment. How annoying.

Happy days in paradise.

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2040408]

Interestingly to segway to "credit card" the bookings always say to present with the same credit card as the booking was made. He tickets I've purchased for pinay, they have never been asked. I was asked once by Singapore Airlines at NAIA and failed! I had to provide additional credit card as a backup payment. How annoying. [/QUOTE]Thai Airways and Korean Air are both VERY strict about showing the credit card used for booking. I had given my asawa a copy of the credit card duly signed and authenticated by me when she was checking in to join me in Bkk (I had gone ahead).

She was not allowed to check in. She had to repay for her ticket using her own credit card and then I had to get the refund for the fare paid on my CC (which I did, eventually, after some 2 months delay).

As GE says, it's better to have a paper version of your ticket in your hand, because you never know who is on duty that particular day. With the increased level of security around now with martial law in Mindanao, you just might find that last week's rules are now changed.

Its approx an 50/50 experience to me. I have my bookingconfirmation stored on iBook. Sometimes when I queue up and security ask for ticket I start to get out my iPad, they mostly just stare away and ask the next in line. I just move on. The 50/50 is being asked for ticket / confirmation in the first place. Maybe something to do with the fact I mostly hit T3 late eve for EK flight departing a tad before or after midnight (pending on their rapid changing schedule). T3 is quoting down around these hours departure wince and security soon ends their shift. Tired I guess. Only Dubai and Hong Kong left for Intl. Departures.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2040304]Depends on who is on duty. Some ask and some don't. Best to have a copy of the boooking on your tablet or cell phone to show if asked in lieu of a ticket or paper copy.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2040399]The folks checking tickets for airport entry are poorly trained and inconsistent. I suggest you print out whatever you have, as the digital age hasn't totally dawned here. Cebu Pacific and PAL both allow you to check in on line and print your boarding pass, and I suggest you do so. When I'm staying at a hotel here, I'll typically check in on line, have the airline email me a copy of the boarding pass, and then have someone at the hotel print out the boarding pass. It's a system that's worked well for me. Also, having the boarding pass in hand allows you to bypass the check-in lines and go directly to the departure gate.

GE.[/QUOTE]Thanks guys, then definitely I'm going to print a copy of the tickets, just in case.

[QUOTE=ElNice;2040433]Thanks guys, then definitely I'm going to print a copy of the tickets, just in case.[/QUOTE]I use the baggage porters and they bypass the long lines outside in the heat or rain to the first X-ray machine security check and usually take me to the front of the check in line. I tip them P100, well worth it to me.

Cheap Charlie's please disregard this post.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2040477]I use the baggage porters and they bypass the long lines outside in the heat or rain to the first X-ray machine security check and usually take me to the front of the check in line. I tip them P100, well worth it to me.

Cheap Charlie's please disregard this post.[/QUOTE]I do the same but the only problem sometimes is finding a free one so when I see one I shout and whistle if needed to get the attention, once they see a foreigner they generally come across and ignore others.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2040534]I do the same but the only problem sometimes is finding a free one so when I see one I shout and whistle if needed to get the attention, once they see a foreigner they generally come across and ignore others.[/QUOTE]WR, if you keep your dog collars and chains covered up along with your other apparatus you might find assistance much easier!

Very few want to carry the Wicked's bag.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2040399]. Cebu Pacific and PAL both allow you to check in on line and print your boarding pass, and I suggest you do so.[/QUOTE]Of course, you'll want to do online check-in with any airline with which you don't have gold / platinum status -- in order to avoid the lines, although now with machine kiosks, check-in can be done quickly at the airport, with just bags to drop. Discount carriers let you check in days in advance -- sole purpose being to market the upsell. Problem is, if your plans change at the last minute, once you've checked in with some airlines it is not so simple to get a refund or ticket change: you risk losing it completely.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2040651]WR, if you keep your dog collars and chains covered up along with your other apparatus you might find assistance much easier!

Very few want to carry the Wicked's bag.[/QUOTE]Who me? LOL.

I tip well DG and sometimes I have seen the same guy and if he sees me he will for sure come over and offer help.

Only a few times have I been questioned about certain 'contents' and I just point to the cutie (if she is with me) and security smile and laugh.

But I have learned over the year to leave a bag or two in various cities and / or give some cuties a pasalubong which means the bag is not as 'wicked' as before (but I did ask DHL to fly in some special stuff to Manila once. Was a fun day explaining the content to the lady at DHL in the UK.

[QUOTE=Golfinho;2040658]Of course, you'll want to do online check-in with any airline with which you don't have gold / platinum status -- in order to avoid the lines, although now with machine kiosks, check-in can be done quickly at the airport, with just bags to drop. Discount carriers let you check in days in advance -- sole purpose being to market the upsell. Problem is, if your plans change at the last minute, once you've checked in with some airlines it is not so simple to get a refund or ticket change: you risk losing it completely.[/QUOTE]I have never seen machine kiosks at any terminal in the Philippines, though it's possible that I've missed them and they do exist. I did once try to go through security with nothing but my digital ticket and was promptly sent to a counter and told to get a physical printout. The digital era here is in its infancy--remember this country still engages in the wide use of carbon paper--and assumptions about check-in procedures in more developed places often don't hold here. Aside from Manila, lining up to pay the airport departure tax is still required. This remains a basically analog place.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2040780]I have never seen machine kiosks at any terminal in the Philippines, though it's possible that I've missed them and they do exist. -and assumptions about check-in procedures in more developed places often don't hold here. [/QUOTE]Machines printing boarding passes exist in Manila airport. No assumptions were being made: only statements of experience in Philippines.

I have never seen so much paperwork to get on to ferry with a motorcycle. In Manila. I had to make at least 8 stops on different windows.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2040780]I have never seen machine kiosks at any terminal in the Philippines, though it's possible that I've missed them and they do exist. I did once try to go through security with nothing but my digital ticket and was promptly sent to a counter and told to get a physical printout. The digital era here is in its infancy--remember this country still engages in the wide use of carbon paper--and assumptions about check-in procedures in more developed places often don't hold here. Aside from Manila, lining up to pay the airport departure tax is still required. This remains a basically analog place.

GE.[/QUOTE]

Analog world yes and moving up to the digital one will take huge investments. Even if the moneys are there we all know someone pocket them before any investments are being made. On the other hand workers are cheap and paid small coins so if the employ like 8 people doing the same 1 person does back in the real world, it's still cheap.

[QUOTE=VernierCaliper;2041555]Analog world yes and moving up to the digital one will take huge investments. Even if the moneys are there we all know someone pocket them before any investments are being made. On the other hand workers are cheap and paid small coins so if the employ like 8 people doing the same 1 person does back in the real world, it's still cheap.[/QUOTE]Yesterday I was listening a HRM student who is going to do an OJT. Apparently 1000 hours required for the graduation. A free labor to the industry. Unbelievable.

[QUOTE=Mbsl65;2041724]Yesterday I was listening a HRM student who is going to do an OJT. Apparently 1000 hours required for the graduation. A free labor to the industry. Unbelievable.[/QUOTE]You didn't get the full story. They need to pay to work OJT.

Just returned from a quick visit and had chance to use the new bridge connecting naia 3 and resortworld. I think it opened about a month or so ago. From the airport, you have to go up to the food court on 4th level. It should be noted that there were absolutely no signage that I could see so I don't think many people know since you have to walk thru the food court. The moving walkways were working and there was also a cart to drive you. Once you exit on the resorts world side there are free shuttle vans for Marriott, Remington and maxim hotels. Directly across is the Belmont hotel. Very convenient for the morning Ana flight to narita but I saw absolutely no one else using it during both directions perhaps due to the lack of signage.

[QUOTE=SaltyPete;2041876]You didn't get the full story. They need to pay to work OJT.[/QUOTE]Well I don't think they all have to pay for their OJT. I've had girls telling me in fact they got paid doing OJT (small compared to the their future small wage but still better than nothing). And of course a few weren't paid a single maid. But to my knowledge they didn't have to pay for OJT. BM Salty's statement can very well be true as well in a few cases but I doubt paying for OJT is not what all have to do. I can see no reason why the girls would lie about being paid small or paid nothing.

[QUOTE=VernierCaliper;2042619]Well I don't think they all have to pay for their OJT. I've had girls telling me in fact they got paid doing OJT (small compared to the their future small wage but still better than nothing). And of course a few weren't paid a single maid. But to my knowledge they didn't have to pay for OJT. BM Salty's statement can very well be true as well in a few cases but I doubt paying for OJT is not what all have to do. I can see no reason why the girls would lie about being paid small or paid nothing.[/QUOTE]Whether they pay the OJT employer or not may be different in some cases. Meanwhile in OJT they might still be paying the school tuition for the OJT time frame.

The point is they are screwed and some are more screwed.

Don't forget many are from out of town and have to pay for their own room and board. All for HRM degree which they can qualify for a job at minimum wage on 6 month contract.

[QUOTE=VernierCaliper;2042619]Well I don't think they all have to pay for their OJT. I've had girls telling me in fact they got paid doing OJT (small compared to the their future small wage but still better than nothing). And of course a few weren't paid a single maid. But to my knowledge they didn't have to pay for OJT. BM Salty's statement can very well be true as well in a few cases but I doubt paying for OJT is not what all have to do. I can see no reason why the girls would lie about being paid small or paid nothing.[/QUOTE]You are right, of course. I should have said that they 'often' have to pay for OJT. And of course pay for and attend useless seminars on how to make a resume, how to interview, blah blah blah, where often the "Professor" doesn't even bother to show up. Oh, and then they have to pay for a diploma, the graduation ceremony, and the gown before they are allowed to graduate. It really is quite the sham.

As far as I can tell, after earning a HRM degree, a waiter / waitress has learned 3 things:

1. ALWAYS interrupt the conversation, even if it appears to me intimate. Make that ESPECIALLY if it appears to be intimate.

2. ALWAYS re-state the order.

3. Always say "Sir, I have received phpXXXX" when paid.

Unfortunately, a degree does not ensure competence.

Yes I agree. Like many things in Phils, decent and indecent students, are basically fucked one way or another from reasons mentioned from other BMs. Girls I meet doing the OJT shuffle are often proud going forward in life and reaching this stage of their educ. I mostly encourage educ and I don't want to be the one destroying their positive attitude towards their future. They find out sooner or later themselves it was all for a jolli clerk position anyway at best (to be a tad cruel).

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2042731]Whether they pay the OJT employer or not may be different in some cases. Meanwhile in OJT they might still be paying the school tuition for the OJT time frame.

The point is they are screwed and some are more screwed.

Don't forget many are from out of town and have to pay for their own room and board. All for HRM degree which they can qualify for a job at minimum wage on 6 month contract.[/QUOTE]I agree that mostly they pay for OJT and in fact all those I know who do / did OJT have paid and as DG says many are not living in the same town so have additional expenses. Those who intern in the USA have huge bills to pay and agencies rip them off badly.

Is a mess as the HRM course are worthless and while you must not dampen enthusiasm I try to persuade them to take other courses before they embark a 4 year course where there are limited job prospect apart from being used as slave labour in fast food places.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2042829]I agree that mostly they pay for OJT and in fact all those I know who do / did OJT have paid and as DG says many are not living in the same town so have additional expenses. Those who intern in the USA have huge bills to pay and agencies rip them off badly.

Is a mess as the HRM course are worthless and while you must not dampen enthusiasm I try to persuade them to take other courses before they embark a 4 year course where there are limited job prospect apart from being used as slave labour in fast food places.[/QUOTE]As a former GM of a major hotel in Davao once commented to me, HRM students spend four years learning to make beds and fold napkins, and at the end of four years, they qualify to work as waitresses, knowing little or nothing about hotel management. Much the same holds true for the current educational craze of "culinary arts," from which students graduate after two years, firmly believing that they are "chefs," only to be roughly disabused of that notion once they plunge into the sea of reality. And so it goes.

The incongruity between skills taught and skills needed is not limited to specific curricula, but applies across most if not all of the academic spectrum. To illustrate this point further, a few years ago, I arranged for a friend of mine, a European software engineer with a highly successful company, to meet with some IT professors at a major university here. He left the meeting after a couple of hours shaking his head, telling me that the skills the students were acquiring were so outdated, and ultimately so irrelevant to the needs of software development firms, that the best the students could hope for after graduating was to get a job developing websites as their programming skills were primitive by European standards.

The deep abyss between academia and real-world skills here is likely attributable to several factors and I don't claim to know them all. One however, must surely be that in most economic sectors this country falls dramatically short of minimally acceptable international standards at almost every rung of the ladder; a function no doubt of a fairly closed crony capitalism that precludes meaningful competition and excludes the admission of foreign competition. The bar is set low, but Filipinos who haven't traveled much may be ignorant of this fact, and receive their rude awakening once they try to sell their skills into an overseas market. A second, related factor is that so many universities here are so poorly equipped and staffed with so many unqualified faculty that the system becomes self-perpetuating, with mediocrity giving birth to more mediocrity. I recall a university president--whose academic field was similar to mine--proudly giving me a copy of an article he had had published in a local academic journal. It was so convoluted, so poorly written and poorly constructed that it's chance of having been accepted in a true internationally peer-reviewed journal would have been about zero.

A further confounding factor is the growth of the local labor market. The birth rate here remains high, and the number of young people seeking to enter the labor market vastly outstrips the number of jobs created by the economy, so even if graduates were highly qualified for the jobs they seek, the mismatch between job seekers and employment opportunity would be huge.

GE.

Per CNN Philippines: [URL]http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/06/02/Duterte-Terrorism-in-PH-funded-by-drug-money.html[/URL].

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2043047]Per CNN Philippines: [URL]http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/06/02/Duterte-Terrorism-in-PH-funded-by-drug-money.html[/URL].

GE.[/QUOTE]This was reported in the local press with the comment that as there is Martial Law there will be arrest of narco politicians who are supporting the group and / or using them to protect the durg business. Said in one report some are incumbent legislators. Why does that not surprise me GE.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/06/01/1705623/drugs-funding-terror[/URL]

Also talk of extending this to the Visayas.

Some of my friends are very supportive of this and blame the rich elite and LP politicians / support base for trying to destabilise matters as they are finding their schemes, scams and drug income at rik. Whatever it is they are firmly in D30's camp.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2042964]but Filipinos who haven't traveled much may be ignorant of this fact, and receive their rude awakening once they try to sell their skills into an overseas market.
GE.[/QUOTE]Key factor. The village girls live in a bubble. Once they are OWC they can better judge prospects and the value of education.

[QUOTE=NiceGuy99;2043176]Key factor. The village girls live in a bubble. Once they are OWC they can better judge prospects and the value of education.[/QUOTE]True NG once they earn PHP 15 k max in the UAE (housekeeper, DH, fast food creew) and free food is rubbish and shared bed spacers plus the high cost living etc and find the family think they are 'rich' and demand lots of cash etc.

Then they realise the bubble has burst.

So many examples I know of (as am sure you have) and they struggle more there than they do if they stayed at home and worked in a call centre IMHO.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2043275]True NG once they earn PHP 15 k max in the UAE (housekeeper, DH, fast food creew) and free food is rubbish and shared bed spacers plus the high cost living etc and find the family think they are 'rich' and demand lots of cash etc.

Then they realise the bubble has burst.

So many examples I know of (as am sure you have) and they struggle more there than they do if they stayed at home and worked in a call centre IMHO.[/QUOTE]Most of them are working on the side just set the location on any dating website to Dubai and its mostly Filipinos. I know one who works in Oman she told me some of the girls have 2 or 3 boyfriends at the same time just to get some money and expensive gifts.

We keep repeating variations on a common theme: given the structure of this economy, which offers little hope for financial advancement save for the chosen few there are few alternatives. College / university education is not--as it is in many other countries--much of a vehicle for upward mobility and emigration for employment appears to many as the only viable alternative aside, perhaps, from working in a bar. The fact that many, if not most Filipinos who emigrate are further exploited at their overseas destinations doesn't seem to act as a deterrent to the large throng wanting to leave. The "official" statistics indicate that approximately 10% of the population (which would be about 10 million people) work overseas. I'm guessing the actual percentage is somewhat higher though I have no means of verifying that assertion.

Several years ago a research organization conducted polls in several SE Asian countries relative to desires for emigration. While I don't remember the specific outcomes, I do recall that an overwhelming majority of Filipinos indicated that they would leave if offered the opportunity to do so. I also recall that in Thailand, the percentage of those expressing any desire to leave their country was dramatically smaller.

Several Filipino academics have studied the sociological implications of absentee parenting caused by one or the other parent working overseas, and their research as I recall, indicated that such absences were correlated with many problems for those left behind; both for the children and the remaining spouse. Given that OFWs represent the second largest source of foreign exchange revenues, and account for significant consumer spending (from the remittances sent home), there appears to be no firm intention to change the course in an effort to retain more people here, so the diaspora will no doubt continue as there's a good chance that without a massive number of OFWs sending billions of hard currency back home, the economy would collapse.

GE.

In November I got round trip from SFO to MNL for $487 on China Southern. Short layovers in Guangzhou. Try ASAP tickets.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2046551]I can say proudly that I've made virtually every mistake it's possible to make in Manila. Some of those mistakes I made despite having read of other people making the same mistakes on this very forum. Never underestimate a stupid person's ability to think "it won't happen to me" immediately before it does. [/QUOTE]Great report that hit a nerve. The wise reader will learn from your experience. I'd even say nobody on this board is truly a veteran with Pinays in situ until he's made some of the mistakes you describe:

- Booked too close together and had to scramble to clean and make excuses.

- Had an intoxicatingly gorgeous Pinay get under your skin just enough to screw up plans with other Pinays.

- Had a Pinay's tardiness hork up your schedule.

- Booked beyond the limits of endurance, we all have them with or without pharmaceutical aid.

Would you add any other problematic experiences to earn the "Veteran of Pinays" badge? I'd maybe add one:

- Negotiated a price while drunk on alcohol or horniness.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2033244]I noticed that I couldn't find any US-Cebu nonstops when I did an Orbitz search last month.[/QUOTE]We had our direct flights from LA to Cebu cancelled. They re-booked us with some shitty flights through Manila which we could have purchased much cheaper if we booked those originally in March.

[QUOTE=Kasem;2046832]We had our direct flights from LA to Cebu cancelled. They re-booked us with some shitty flights through Manila which we could have purchased much cheaper if we booked those originally in March.[/QUOTE]Proves, that if you had paid 20 dollars to join ISG, get Private Message facility, and access to all the juicy info that entails, you would have been able to book flights a bit smarter. Cheaper is not always better. Regards, and enjoy Cebu.

[QUOTE=MrWoolyBooly;2046802]

Would you add any other problematic experiences to earn the "Veteran of Pinays" badge? I'd maybe add one:

[/QUOTE]Who could forget that unexpected Viber message "Hi Honey, do you miss my BJ? from previous night's girl on your iPhone screen which the current pinay in your bed sees.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2047320]Who could forget that unexpected Viber message "Hi Honey, do you miss my BJ? from previous night's girl on your iPhone screen which the current pinay in your bed sees.[/QUOTE]Good one! I forgot about showing the girl the hot pictures we just took together and unthinkingly scrolling a bit too far or backing out to the thumbnails. I always get distracted from hiding my previous lovely's pics.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2047320]Who could forget that unexpected Viber message "Hi Honey, do you miss my BJ? from previous night's girl on your iPhone screen which the current pinay in your bed sees.[/QUOTE]Or the fact you have Imo on your phone which is always on silent. But if you also have the Imo app on ipad, it rings every time a girl makes an unexpected (why don't you ask if its ok! Video call. And of course theres the screen ringing, with a girls profile pic showing her in her bra and panties and the honey you are with saying " I think your friend is trying to contact you " at which point the honey you are with suddenly becomes North Pole Cool.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2047358]Or the fact you have Imo on your phone which is always on silent. But if you also have the Imo app on ipad, it rings every time a girl makes an unexpected (why don't you ask if its ok! Video call. And of course theres the screen ringing, with a girls profile pic showing her in her bra and panties and the honey you are with saying " I think your friend is trying to contact you " at which point the honey you are with suddenly becomes North Pole Cool.[/QUOTE]It's those awkward situations that turn newbies into veterans haha I've felt the chill. My best thaw-'em-out line: "Actions speak louder than words. She wants to be with me, but who am I with?

Today's issue of Cebu Sun Star (June 15) contains an interesting article with statistics related to expat retirement in the Phils.

The article cites retirement statistics as reported by the PRA (Philippine Retirement Authority) regarding the approximately 50,000 SRRVs (Special Resident Retirement Visas) issued by PRA during the past three decades, as follows:

1. 34% Chinese (mainland), with 17,768 SRRVs issued (question: shouldn't this percentage be 36%.

2. 21% Koreans, with 10,384.

3. 9% Taiwanese, with 4,524.

4. 8% Indians, with 3,991.

5. 7% Japanese, with 3,442.

Per the article, the remainder of the "top 10" was comprised of Americans, HK Chinese, British, Germans, and Australians.

These figures do not take into account the many expats who have effectively retired to the Phils, but who have not obtained SRRVs.

For those who might be interested, here is the link to the article, entitled "More Chinese Retire in the Philippines":

[URL]http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/business/2017/06/15/more-chinese-retire-philippines-547456[/URL]

Cheers!

OM.

Hi Everybody,

Quiet some time I didnot post anything here but I did not really monger around.

I might go soon to the Philippines and like to prepare me a bit before I go there.

Are there other free datingsites than DIA (date in asia) where I can have a try to arrange something before I fly there?

Would be highly appreciated.

Take care everybody.

When I have previously extended a visa beyond one month, you pay a same day processing fee and you get your passport same day with a new visa. Just recently went to the Cebu office and was told the bureau has ceased same day processing you have to come back 3 days later to pick it up. I presume it is nationwide not just Cebu. If anyone has a different experience in Manila please advise as I will revert to using Manila in the future.

[QUOTE=Camieleke;2048453]Hi Everybody,

Quiet some time I didnot post anything here but I did not really monger around.

I might go soon to the Philippines and like to prepare me a bit before I go there.

Are there other free datingsites than DIA (date in asia) where I can have a try to arrange something before I fly there?

Would be highly appreciated.

Take care everybody.[/QUOTE]Many to try. Filipinocupid, romancetale, christianfilipina, pilipinalove, asiandating, travelmate, idateasia, the list goes on and on. Good luck!

[QUOTE=Omega3;2048323]Today's issue of Cebu Sun Star (June 15) contains an interesting article with statistics related to expat retirement in the Phils.

The article cites retirement statistics as reported by the PRA (Philippine Retirement Authority) regarding the approximately 50,000 SRRVs (Special Resident Retirement Visas) issued by PRA during the past three decades, as follows:

1. 34% Chinese (mainland), with 17,768 SRRVs issued (question: shouldn't this percentage be 36%.

2. 21% Koreans, with 10,384.

3. 9% Taiwanese, with 4,524.

4. 8% Indians, with 3,991.

5. 7% Japanese, with 3,442.

Per the article, the remainder of the "top 10" was comprised of Americans, HK Chinese, British, Germans, and Australians.

These figures do not take into account the many expats who have effectively retired to the Phils, but who have not obtained SRRVs.

For those who might be interested, here is the link to the article, entitled "More Chinese Retire in the Philippines":

[URL]http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/business/2017/06/15/more-chinese-retire-philippines-547456[/URL]

Cheers!

OM.[/QUOTE]I visited the SRRV offices in Makati recently. Full of Chinese with their agents. Some people are doing good business.

Interestingly I had done a medical in China which I presented (having previously talked to a SRRV person who indicated this was fine) and was told " No we don't accept medicals from China, anymore. Too many fakes! ". Oh well so much for me having done this in the best International hospital in Beijing, which is 50 staffed by foreign doctors. . more and more Chinese seen on the streets of Makati every day. More and more Chinese seen in all the Airbnb apartments buildings that I use.

[QUOTE=MsAccount;2048463]When I have previously extended a visa beyond one month, you pay a same day processing fee and you get your passport same day with a new visa. Just recently went to the Cebu office and was told the bureau has ceased same day processing you have to come back 3 days later to pick it up. I presume it is nationwide not just Cebu. If anyone has a different experience in Manila please advise as I will revert to using Manila in the future.[/QUOTE]It appears that in major cities the new policy stands. But have heard that in some outlying islands the express lane is still available. The caveat is BI has done away with the 1000 fee so renewal is cheaper. A little birdie told me that the BI office on Mactan still offers express service!

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2048666]I visited the SRRV offices in Makati recently. Full of Chinese with their agents. Some people are doing good business.

Interestingly I had done a medical in China which I presented (having previously talked to a SRRV person who indicated this was fine) and was told " No we don't accept medicals from China, anymore. Too many fakes! ". Oh well so much for me having done this in the best International hospital in Beijing, which is 50 staffed by foreign doctors. . more and more Chinese seen on the streets of Makati every day. More and more Chinese seen in all the Airbnb apartments buildings that I use.[/QUOTE]Ha ha, good one Freebie. As distinguished from "fake" medicals from the Phils, which are acceptable?

I would speculate that the number of retirees and other visitors in Phils from China will increase exponentially this year and in years to come.

Just another sign of the evolving times.

OM.

Just saw the report that, hopefully starting from October 1 of this year, Philippine passport holders will enjoy visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to 30 days. So, will or may be easier to visit Taiwan with Filipina asawa or GF. The effective date was originally to have been July 1, but was postponed. Hopefully, not to be postponed again. Currently, Taiwan e-visas for single entry stays up to 30 days are available on-line.

US and certain other PPT holders of course have enjoyed visa-free entry to Taiwan for many years now.

OM.

Hi guys, my little spinner comes from Isabela in Luzon.

Anyone live there or been in this area that can tell me what it's like?

Thanks.

[QUOTE=Shazzam;2048749]Hi guys, my little spinner comes from Isabela in Luzon.

Anyone live there or been in this area that can tell me what it's like?

Thanks.[/QUOTE]I sent you a PM Shazz.

[QUOTE=Camieleke;2048453]
Are there other free datingsites than DIA (date in asia) where I can have a try to arrange something before I fly there?
[/QUOTE]Just choose one site and work it. Sames girls different sites, so you only need one site.

Greetings,

I am thinking about making a 4th trip to Phil. For a summary, The first time, I went to Manila, then Cebu, then Davao. The first time, I went to Manila, Cebu, Davao, then back to Cebu, then to Manila I planned on meeting a non pro in each city. If I like them, I might repeat, find another one on the return, or find working girls. The first trip I spent a few days near LA cafe, then to Makati where I met a Cupid Non Pro that I had been chatting with. We hit it off, so I spent two days with her, then on to Cebu. I was worn out from the Cupid girl, so in Cebu, just chilled at the hotel and hit up Mango Ave. In Davao, I met another Cupid and we spent a couple of nights together. Back to Cebu, no cupid girls, then back to Makati. I met my Cupid Girl for one more night, then back home. I chatted up the Cupid girl for the next 6 months. I made a return trip to Manila to see her, but spent time in Japan and around LA Cafe before meeting her in Makati. She had starting acting a little strange before this trip, but I planned on taking her to Boracay. Even thought she wasn't quite the same, I we still had sex a couple of times a day. I made a return to Japan, then back home. We had a few chats, then haven't heard from her in a while.

I made one more trip, I didn't see any dating site girls, just LA Cafe area, Makati, and Subic.

Anyway, I may have two weeks to spend, and would like to know what you would suggest. I am sure I would spend a few days in Manila. I tend to have more favorites on FC from Cebu. And I would like to be around the beach more. I don't want to spend too much time traveling around. Any thoughts, suggestions would be appreciated.

I found this story in the Star a few days ago. I'm posting it here since the "Living in the Phils" thread is relegated to the low readership threads "down below the fold".

" Foreign retirees can now join PhilHealth.

By Sheila Crisostomo (The Philippine Star).

Updated June 18,2017 - 12:00 am.

MANILA, Philippines. Starting July 1, foreigners and former Filipino citizens who have chosen to retire in the Philippines may enroll in the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

In a statement, PhilHealth said the new policy is based on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) the agency signed with the Philippine Retirement Authority in 2015.

Under the MOU, qualified foreign retirees registered with the PRA or former Filipinos may become PhilHealth members under the informal economy member category to gain access to medical care services in the country.

Interested foreign retirees may submit PhilHealth member registration forms for foreign nationals to the PRA, which will facilitate their enrolment into the National Health Insurance Program.

The requirements for their enrolment are their special resident retiree's visa and documents indicating they have been granted permanent residency status.

Excluded from the foreign retirees' benefits are the Z benefit package, meant for health conditions that require prolonged hospitalization and expensive treatments; reimbursement for all confinements abroad and benefits for women about to give birth.

Nation (Article MRec), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1.

The annual premium contribution rate for PRA foreign retirees is P15,000 while that of other foreign citizens is P17,000. ".

A brief web search showed that this proposal has been kicking around for a couple years. Can anybody among the ExPats shed some light? Benefits, tradeoffs, limitations? Thanks in advance to anybody willing to fill in details.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2050645]<SNIP>

Nation (Article MRec), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1.

The annual premium contribution rate for PRA foreign retirees is P15,000 while that of other foreign citizens is P17,000. ".

A brief web search showed that this proposal has been kicking around for a couple years. Can anybody among the ExPats shed some light? Benefits, tradeoffs, limitations? Thanks in advance to anybody willing to fill in details.[/QUOTE]The benefits for filipinos from PhilHealth are very limited, so the same holds for foreigners.

My wife is a member of PhilHealth but I still have a substantial alternative health cover for her.

The exclusions listed for foreigners also should temper any reader's excitement that they are now "covered" for health care in the Phils.

As I have said many times before on this site- make sure that if you plan to resettle or retire here that you make sure you have adequate health care at an international level.

As seen recently. P50.25 on the USD. Anyone getting higher?

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2051043]As seen recently. P50.25 on the USD. Anyone getting higher?[/QUOTE]Official ratée as of a minute ago was 50.36 so 50.25 is pretty good.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2051106]Official rate as of a minute ago was 50.36 so 50.25 is pretty good.[/QUOTE]As of 13:00 EDT the rate is 50.22. Of course this is the rate for large transactions. Your rate can most likely be lower unless there is a black market demand for $$.

I usually am ok with 1/2 to 1% spread depending on the need and amount of conversion.

Since you've been around the block a few times, I'm not sure exactly what you are asking, or why. So, I'll just throw a few things out there.

If you have a gal that you feel comfortable traveling with, then there are many options from Cebu City (see Cebu thread). Using Ocean jet or other services you can get to Bohol (white sand at Alona Beach, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River, etc). I've gone to Dumaguete (Dauin, Apo Island, snorkeling) using ferry and bus. You can get to Ormoc, Leyte, although the beaches aren't so great near the city. Islands on my bucket list: Siquior, Camotes.

From Cebu city go north on the island to find Malapasqua or Bantayan Island or south to Oslob (whale watching, beautiful waterfall) or Moalboal. On the south tip of Cebu Island there is a short ferry ride across to Dumaguete port.

Picture: Malapasqua at sunset. X Man.

[QUOTE=George03;2049397]Greetings,

SNIP

Anyway, I may have two weeks to spend, and would like to know what you would suggest. I am sure I would spend a few days in Manila. I tend to have more favorites on FC from Cebu. And I would like to be around the beach more. I don't want to spend too much time traveling around. Any thoughts, suggestions would be appreciated.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=XMan;2051391]Since you've been around the block a few times, I'm not sure exactly what you are asking, or why. So, I'll just throw a few things out there.

If you have a gal that you feel comfortable traveling with, then there are many options from Cebu City (see Cebu thread). Using Ocean jet or other services you can get to Bohol (white sand at Alona Beach, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River, etc). I've gone to Dumaguete (Dauin, Apo Island, snorkeling) using ferry and bus. You can get to Ormoc, Leyte, although the beaches aren't so great near the city. Islands on my bucket list: Siquior, Camotes.

From Cebu city go north on the island to find Malapasqua or Bantayan Island or south to Oslob (whale watching, beautiful waterfall) or Moalboal. On the south tip of Cebu Island there is a short ferry ride across to Dumaguete port.

Picture: Malapasqua at sunset. X Man.[/QUOTE]Thanks for the info. I guess what I was asking, and should have clarified more, is what would you do with two weeks in Phil. For myself I don't want to do too much traveling, especially with the long flight back and other. But a couple of in country trips would be ok. Also, I find that many favorites or girls contacting my on FC etc are from Cebu. Not that I have done a survey, and I probably don't consider the ones from places that I would not go. If I pick a girl to travel with I would probably pick someone that I meet while there to make sure that it is someone I want to spend time with.

Thanks again, looks like plenty to do in Cebu with some time.

I was calm through this.

So I'm in the province for a few days with my pinay. We are having the usual lovely time. Her youth, vigor, and continuously growing appetite had earned her a new phone and some shopping. We arrived as the mall opened, and she had previously picked out a new smart phone and was showing it to me at the mall. I was surprised at the relatively inexpensive price and we purchased it using my CC. As the deal was wrapping up I asked the clerk to make me a photocopy of the hand-written receipt. She said that they had no copy machine, and instructed me to the mall's department store for a scan. I left the pinay at the phone company wrapping things up (she was looking at some other stuff) while I wandered next door for a photocopy.

I handed the receipt to a male clerk and asked for one photocopy. He handed it to a lady clerk who was operating the copy machine and they spoke the local language for 90 seconds. It took him 90 seconds to explain that she needed to make one copy. She put the original on the glass, pushed START, and made one copy (that took 5 seconds). Keep the time (s) in mind here. She handed me the original and copy and printed "1. 75 xx" on a piece of paper. I pulled out a p50 note (my smallest) to pay the under-2-pesos price, and she directed me to a separate payment counter. Of course. The mall had only been open for 25 minutes and I noticed about 25 people in line at the payment counter, with only one register ringing items. Hmmmm. What to do? Hand the copy back and say 'No thanks', walk away, and have the hotel make a copy for me in a heartbeat? Why yes, that should be the call. Just then she grabbed the copy from me and pointed out to the other guy that there was a smudge on it. I didn't care. But she insisted that she re-copy the original (more time spent).

I was not thinking straight, and I got in the long line. I read on my phone for a few minutes, and then it became a bit like torture. I watched the sales clerk ring one item at a time (not by scanning, but by entering the price by hand). Several customers had oodles of items (it must be back-to-school time, every pencil must be entered separately at the register). 10 minutes on I had closed half the distance to the register, in order to hand over 1. 75 pesos. Tick, tock. One's blood should boil, right? I just didn't have a fight in me, so I just waited. 20 minutes. Bit like torture defined: Its like sticking a sewing needle into one of your testicles, but just 1/20th the way. Every 60 seconds, stick it in 1/20th more. Painful, but in drawn out doses.

I could see my pinay way down the hall still talking to the phone sales lady. When I finally paid for my item and got my change and receipt, there is a lady sitting next to the sales clerk. She bags things, smiles nice, staples the receipt to the bag, says good morning, etc. She wears a different outfit than the other floor personnel so I assumed she was management. Seemed pleasant. Ma'am, can I have a moment? I'd like to discuss an issue with you, ok? Right away she and the sales clerk stopped dead and looked nervous, like they had done something wrong. The sales clerk said "I think the change is right sir. I can count it again". No sweetie, I wanted to find out how it could take 25 minutes to get and pay for a single p2 photocopy.

More nervous stares. Nothing moved. I asked the second lady, the one in the different outfit, if she was management. "No sir. " Ah. Well, can you call a manager here for me? "No sir". Ahhhh. Why not? "No sir. We don't have manager here". Both girls were staring at me like there was about to be a fight. Everyone in line was staring. Nothing moved. Really ladies. A big department store with no managers? "No manager". Well, nothing to lose here, and my (mild) fight was back in me: Ladies I can stand here until you get security or a manager. Or anyone. "OK fine. You go upstairs and find manager. You make a complaint me". Oh, no ma'am, I don't want to make a complaint about your performance. I want to complain about the long wait. "Then you go. You go there". OK ladies, you get back to slowly doing. . . What you do. I'm off.

I went to the phone place and grabbed my pinay. "Where are you Westy? I'm starting to worry". I gave them the short version. The phone-store saleslady said to go upstairs and find the management office to file a complaint. So off we went upstairs. You'd think it would be easy to find the Management office, but think again. We asked clerk after clerk at the department store where the Management office was, and mentioned I wanted to make a complaint. They pointed in this direction, then that direction, they called other mall employees over to confirm the location. Finally we reached the Management office, in the far back corner. Just a door and a security guard. Employees walked in and out. The guard confirmed that yes, this was the management office. Well, I'd like to file a small complaint. "Really sir". He said that like nobody had ever done that before. Yes, son, yes. "OK then". He picked up a phone and talked to someone for 2 solid minutes. Then he looked at me and said: "Complaint, yes?" Yes, stud, yes. Another solid minute of talk on the phone from the guard. "Sir what is your complaint?" Wait time downstairs, and one other item. Any manager will do. Well, another solid minute of phone chat from the guard. "Sir, they will not speak with you. OK?" What? I walked all over the place looking for management. Isn't this their office? "Yes sir. But they won't hear a complaint". He hung up the phone. "Sorry sir".

Well, if you want to get a cano's neck hair up. I said politely that I would not leave until I could find a way to file a complaint. He talked to my girl for 2 minutes. Then he got back on the phone and talked for 90 seconds or so. "So, you want your 2 pesos refund. Correct?" No. I never mentioned a refund. Neither did my pinay. "Yes she did sir. " I looked right at her and asked if she told the guard that I wanted a refund, and she nodded yes. Jesus (stick the needle in just a bit farther, please). I re-explained that I was complaining about the wait time, and the fact that nobody seemed to know how to find a manager. "Ohhhhhh. Wait sir. " he talked on the phone for another minute. "OK. You can make a complaint if you want at the complaint desk. Down one level". Wait, wait. You mean there's a COMPLAINT DEPARTMENT, and nobody bothered to mention that? "Yes sir. Just I find out about it also on the phone". Hahaha OF COURSE!

We walked towards the escalator to go down. For fun I asked the first passing saleslady: Who would I speak to if I had a complaint about the products or service here? "Um, I don't know. Wait". She called over another, then yet another clerk. They talked to my pinay. They spoke for a moment and my pinay told them that we'd been to the management office. It was like we'd cured cancer, suddenly they were all smiles. "Yes sir. You would go to the management office". Jeez.

Soooooo. We get downstairs to a desk marked "Complaint Desk". I sit and relay the situation to a nice lady. Her brow furrowed. She seemed genuinely interested. "So you have two complaints. First, too long to pay for copy. Second, the lady there say there is no management?" Spot on girl. "That lady also did not direct you here to me?" Correct. "We have a policy to direct unhappy customer to my desk for complaints. We imbestigate all". Oh, sweet woman, the lady at the sales counter was not the only one who didn't direct me to you. Most every employee I've spoken with in the last twenty minutes didn't direct me to you when I mentioned a complaint. "Really. Do you remember who they are?" Yes. Sherrie, Claudine, Monica, Samantha, Esmi and Langa. Several others. Also the security guard at the management door didn't know of your desk until a few minutes ago. If you have that policy, why didn't the manager on the phone with the guard originally tell the guard to send me to you? He asked questions over the phone and then tried the brush-off.

"Really". She was writing names as fast as she could. "We have complaint policy!" She herself, the Complaint Manager, seemed to have a complaint. THIS is why IMFITP. She picked up the phone and called somebody. No kidding, she talked for 90 seconds on the phone to bring me this: "OK. Upstairs at the checkout counter. There is 2 registers. Each register must have 2 employees, its policy. On one register we have only 1 sales clerk so we cannot operate 1 register. So we only operating the other register this morning. That's why its so long the wait. You understand". No. Really. Really no. How does that diminish the wait complaint? "I don't understand sir. You have long wait because we don't operate 2 registers". Well if you had both registers operating I would have had a 10 minute wait in the payment line, not 20 minutes. "Yes sir". Isn't that still way too long to stand in line to make a p2 payment? Longgggg pause and a stare. "Well. Yes. It is. But understand all registers must have two employees".

She said that she would talk with each of the employees that I had mentioned, and also one of the managers in the management office (whom the guard was speaking with) to find out why they did not direct me to the complaint desk. I said that I would be back tomorrow to follow up with her on her 'imbestigasyon'. Of course I didn't go back.

You know, I'm in the province being lazy with my girl. I didn't want to have to go to her house again and buy lunch for everyone (again), so the idea of shopping and hanging in the mall a bit wasn't bad. What's an extra hour or so?

Ah Westy, your post invoked so many memories of so many similar situations. I think the problem is you were looking for logic in a country which doesn't operate according to the laws of logic; or at least no logic I've ever been able to fathom. Filipinos are so habituated to crap service that they likely believe it to be the norm, so they wait, docilely thinking (to the extent they ever wonder at all), that the entire planet must be like this. And I don't believe the provincial location had much to do with it: I've run into identical situations in Davao and in Makati.

A couple of days ago I was in a huge Mercury Drug getting a prescription filled. I got waited on immediately, gave the lady my credit card which she ran, and then had me sign immediately. And then the wait began: first she took my drugs and my cards to the cashier–who had several additional baskets of drugs in line–and then, finally, the cashier counted each of my pills (3 prescriptions), and then ran additional calculations through her machine, and then printed out still another receipt, finally returning the basket to the lady who had waited on me in the first place. Then that lady counted each of the pills for each prescription in front of me, gave me back my card, and bagged the order. It's the same everywhere, and it's one reason why no meaningful competition is permitted in the country. If the rules changed, and American / Canadian / European / Japanese / Australian consumer companies were allowed in, the locals would be out of business in months.

GE.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2053966]Get in line, and get used to it[/QUOTE]My compliments on your superhuman patience. Or on your lady friend's ability to keep you blissfully unperturbable.

Indeed. The entire country is a model of inefficiency.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2053980] It's the same everywhere, and it's one reason why no meaningful competition is permitted in the country. If the rules changed, and American / Canadian / European / Japanese / Australian consumer companies were allowed in, the locals would be out of business in months.

GE.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2053966]I was calm through this.

So I'm in the province . . . <SNIP> [/QUOTE]I don't get it WC.

You return to the Philippines every 3 months or so and keep on doing it again and again and yet you spent an inordinate amount of time reporting these lowest-common-denominator instances of bizarre experiences.

I don't understand why a country that obviously attracts you also makes you wish to openly denigrate both the people and their quaint processes.

If you lived here like I do you would know that events of this kind are common and so are best avoided. Why anyone would want a photocopy of a receipt already provided is likely to bewilder most people. That's where your problem started. Surely you know by now that all cash exchanges in department stores must be enacted through a cashier.

Your second mistake was to try to prove some sort of point (I am not sure what it is) to people for whom English is a second language. If you had managed to speak to "management", I am curious to know what would have been a successful outcome for you? Opening a 2nd cash register for you to pay your 2 pesos more quickly?

I enjoy living in the Philippines by keeping Niebuhr's Serenity Prayer foremost in my thinking:

Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.

The courage to change the things I can.

And the wisdom to know the difference.

After my 20 years here I only ever take on major areas of inefficiency if I wish to make a point AND try to get a process changed. In other words, I choose my battles wisely.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2053980]Ah Westy, your post invoked so many memories of so many similar situations. I think the problem is you were looking for logic in a country which doesn't operate according to the laws of logic; or at least no logic I've ever been able to fathom. Filipinos are so habituated to crap service that they likely believe it to be the norm, so they wait, docilely thinking (to the extent they ever wonder at all), that the entire planet must be like this. And I don't believe the provincial location had much to do with it: I've run into identical situations in Davao and in Makati.

A couple of days ago I was in a huge Mercury Drug getting a prescription filled. I got waited on immediately, gave the lady my credit card which she ran, and then had me sign immediately. And then the wait began: first she took my drugs and my cards to the cashierwho had several additional baskets of drugs in lineand then, finally, the cashier counted each of my pills (3 prescriptions), and then ran additional calculations through her machine, and then printed out still another receipt, finally returning the basket to the lady who had waited on me in the first place. Then that lady counted each of the pills for each prescription in front of me, gave me back my card, and bagged the order. It's the same everywhere, and it's one reason why no meaningful competition is permitted in the country. If the rules changed, and American / Canadian / European / Japanese / Australian consumer companies were allowed in, the locals would be out of business in months.

GE.[/QUOTE]Me too GE, especially the pharmacy. At Watsons in Cebu they are more efficient in that they can be slightly faster in the deed but at others it is painfully slow while 4 people do the job of one. But this provides employment and at around 300 pesos a day maybe the owners don't care.

As you say any half decent western or Jap company would be welcome except by the local businessmen who enjoy a favoured status that other countries won't afford the locals.

Westy. I know you are a calm and patient fellow but even that must have driven you crazy. I have also has 'frustrations' such as yours but never bothered to see it through as you managed.

The Globe Express counter in Ayala, Cebu) was never express and could be an hour before being served for something very simple. Worse if there were Koreans in queue which for me meant for me "come back another day".

I would have taken a picture of the receipt with my phone. I mean, that is literally a photo copy. You could have printed it at the hotel if you needed.

Part of me thinks you intentionally chose to play the game, to pull the thread. If I had gotten to the point of receiving a photocopy then directed to the non-moving line, I would have given the girl the 50, walked away and let her deal with it.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2053966]I was calm through this.[/QUOTE]Well, I believe we all know the PIs are quite unlike Switzerland. Then again, they are more fun, warmer. And cheaper.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2053994]But this provides employment and at around 300 pesos a day maybe the owners don't care.
[/QUOTE]I keep telling myself that it's a rational business decision weighing the cost of labor over the cost of whatever automation they'd pay otherwise. I have no idea. Drives me crazy in any small store to have them write with pen on paper an itemized receipt on carbon paper. Regardless of (in) efficiency, there is simply no culture of hustle on the job. While in the Philippines we need to just psychologically get over it or leave. I flirt with the staff or use wait times to arrange my next meeting with a lady friend. It's actually more frustrating when accompanied, requiring forced conversation.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2053994]Worse if there were Koreans in queue which for me meant for me "come back another day".[/QUOTE]I've seen this very line at the Globe Express counter at Ayala Mall in Cebu. The line consisted of one Korean and one Filipina in front of me. Long lines, whatever. Waiting for the comedy of a Korean without English / Cebuano / Tagalog and a Filipina cashier without Korean to explain a transaction, excruciating.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2053994]
The Globe Express counter in Ayala, Cebu) was never express and could be an hour before being served for something very simple. Worse if there were Koreans in queue which for me meant for me "come back another day".[/QUOTE]After 15 years here, I've learned that it's always better to have your asawa undertake these tasks, while you wait for her in a nearby coffee shop. And if you think commercial transactions are fun, try the whole business permitting process.

GE.

The bottom line in all these chronicles of inefficiency etc is that it's the Philippines and it's the residents' right to run it as they wish.

Non-filipinos are merely visitors who may choose to stay here (as I have done) despite unfavorable or frustrating experiences, leave and never return or keep on coming back again and again to satisfy their masochistic tendencies.

The country is what it is.

I have no problem with first-time visitors who think "WTF" and then skedaddle out of the Philippines as fast as they can and who will not return. I am troubled by those who have either lived here for an extended period or who return again and again as short-term visitors and yet feel compelled to document every single negative thing that they experience in order to pour derision on both the people and the processes.

You only need to live here for a very short time to know both what's wrong with the country and what is attractive about it. Most of the negative things that are continuously documented here have been in place for all of the 20 years I have lived here, but the other positive experiences of living here outweigh the negatives, otherwise I would have left long ago.

If you want to live in the Philippines peacefully and in good health, leave all your expectations and western hang-ups at the airport as you arrive and just enjoy the ride.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2054164]After 15 years here, I've learned that it's always better to have your asawa undertake these tasks, while you wait for her in a nearby coffee shop. And if you think commercial transactions are fun, try the whole business permitting process.

GE.[/QUOTE]As noted by some posters on this thread and elsewhere, things can get extremely frustrating here, especially when encountering the prevalent "petty bureaucratic" approach.

Also, as pointed out by some others, "It is what it is" and we don't really have the power to effectively change or improve this condition.

One possible solution I have also found is to delegate the relatively minor but potentially annoying chores. If not to Asawa, then delegate to a GF or a local "gofer" and pay them the P300 daily minimum wage or whatever. They will be happy to wait in line for hours (or whatever) and you will be happy not to have to put up with the frustrating nonsense aka BS.

Sometimes, however, easier said than done.

OM.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2053966]*** So I'm in the province for a few days with my pinay. We are having the usual lovely time. Her youth, vigor, and continuously growing appetite had earned her a new phone and some shopping. ***

I was not thinking straight, and I got in the long line. I read on my phone for a few minutes, and then it became a bit like torture. 10 minutes on I had closed half the distance to the register, in order to hand over 1. 75 pesos. Tick, tock. One's blood should boil, right? I just didn't have a fight in me, so I just waited. Bit like torture defined: Its like sticking a sewing needle into one of your testicles, but just 1/20th the way. Every 60 seconds, stick it in 1/20th more. Painful, but in drawn out doses. ***

She said that she would talk with each of the employees that I had mentioned, and also one of the managers in the management office (whom the guard was speaking with) to find out why they did not direct me to the complaint desk. I said that I would be back tomorrow to follow up with her on her 'imbestigasyon'. Of course I didn't go back. ***[/QUOTE]Condolences, Westy, most of the rest of us mortals have suffered through a number of similar painful experiences, and can empathize with you.

For what it's worth, I have a good old American friend who retired to the Philippines 35 years ago, and who started and has run for many years a thriving, low-overhead business here. He still gets pissed off (in a manageable way) at similar daily experiences, and swears at the execrable traffic. He calls the Philippines "The Land of the Not Quite Right" among other things. But in his more philosophical moments, his view is as follows: Because things don't work efficiently or effectively, the country has not progressed economically as fast as many other countries in Asia. Because of this depressed economic situation, foreigners with some money are still attractive to Pinays.

In other words, if things worked efficiently and effectively here, and if the economy were booming, the local women would not find us so attractive any more. Given this perspective, we should be thankful for this Kafkaesque condition here.

I know, this may seem like a BS rationalization. But, still, it is food for thought.

As I posted just a few minutes ago, don't try to do all the small stuff yourself. Try to delegate as much of the small stuff as possible. Pay an eager local person some modest (to us) sum to be your "gofer". They will be happy, and you may be happier too. Lean back and maximize your time relaxing and enjoying the lovely young lasses. That's the reason, after all, that most of us are here.

Good luck!

OM.

[QUOTE=MrWoolyBooly;2054076]I keep telling myself that it's a rational business decision weighing the cost of labor over the cost of whatever automation they'd pay otherwise. I have no idea. Drives me crazy in any small store to have them write with pen on paper an itemized receipt on carbon paper. Regardless of (in) efficiency, there is simply no culture of hustle on the job. While in the Philippines we need to just psychologically get over it or leave. [/QUOTE]The commercial / accounting system in retail businesses which has been the subject of recent posts. Here are a few more observations on this issue.

(1) Only one person handles the cash register which will make it harder for employees to skim money.

(2) The wait staff are assigned numbered charge slips which they use for each transaction. This will discourage skimming and pilfering.

(3) The system has deliberate redundancies which seem to be aimed at preventing employee theft.

(4) The inefficiencies in the system never seem to be intended to serve the consumers' interests but rather to protect the owner from his own employees.

(5) The method of transacting business seems to be nationwide and not just in Angeles or Cebu. It is probably taught in accounting programs nationwide where its practices are integrated into an entire business model. It is part of the national psyche as much as is driving on the right side of the road.

(6) Where did the PI get this system? Is it is a throwback to Spanish colonialism? Did the Americans teach them this business model along with instruction in English? Or is it a homegrown Philippine chestnut?

American business practices underwent a revolution in the 1940's with the promulgation of the Uniform Commercial Code. This new vision of contract law call Legal Realism did away with Legal Formalism where a contract could be voided by peccadillos like forgetting to put in the date. Legal realism looked beyond the form of the contract to the actions of the contracting parties to find evidence of things like the effective date of the contract. Did Legal Realism come too late be implemented by the PI? Interesting question.

[QUOTE=Omega3;2054249]<SNIP>

For what it's worth, I have a good old American friend who retired to the Philippines 35 years ago, and who started and has run for many years a thriving, low-overhead business here. He still gets pissed off (in a manageable way) at similar daily experiences, and swears at the execrable traffic. He calls the Philippines "The Land of the Not Quite Right" among other things. But in his more philosophical moments, his view is as follows: Because things don't work efficiently or effectively, the country has not progressed economically as fast as many other countries in Asia. Because of this depressed economic situation, foreigners with some money are still attractive to Pinays.[/QUOTE]Your good old friend's philosophy is misplaced Om.

Thailand's structure and economy has outstripped the Philippines and yet their sex industry is many times larger than the Philippines, because there are literally millions more foreign visitors each year. These surplus foreigners with money are also attractive to Thais. KL (Malaysia) and Jakarta (Indonesia) also are much more advanced than the Philippines and foreigners with money attract women there too.

I have said many times before on this board that any guy using the exclusive criterion of "lots of available and willing women" as the primary basis on which to make a decision to live here will end up a sad and sorry person, especially if everything else irritates him. I originally came to work in Manila for 3 months and liked it enough to extend my contract to 2 years which has since morphed into 20 years. At no time was ease of mongering a factor in my decision-making although, of course, it is a nice sideline benefit. There are so many other aspects that I enjoy and for me, life is good.

Fuckin' hell guys. I now remember why I seldom delve much further than the PG these days😩.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2054747]Your good old friend's philosophy is misplaced Om.

Thailand's structure and economy has outstripped the Philippines and yet their sex industry is many times larger than the Philippines, because there are literally millions more foreign visitors each year. These surplus foreigners with money are also attractive to Thais. KL (Malaysia) and Jakarta (Indonesia) also are much more advanced than the Philippines and foreigners with money attract women there too.

I have said many times before on this board that any guy using the exclusive criterion of "lots of available and willing women" as the primary basis on which to make a decision to live here will end up a sad and sorry person, especially if everything else irritates him. I originally came to work in Manila for 3 months and liked it enough to extend my contract to 2 years which has since morphed into 20 years. At no time was ease of mongering a factor in my decision-making although, of course, it is a nice sideline benefit. There are so many other aspects that I enjoy and for me, life is good.[/QUOTE]May I respectfully disagree if we change the comparison from local sex industries to finding ordinary local ladies willing to satisfy? I've been to Malaysia and many other countries covering most of the Northern Hemisphere. I've found no country yields better results with the ladies than the Philippines when comparing against the same time / money / effort expended elsewhere. Whether it's poverty, English proficiency, culture, extreme wealth inequality, low expectations of men, or what I don't know.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2054539]

(1) Only one person handles the cash register which will make it harder for employees to skim money.

(2) The wait staff are assigned numbered charge slips which they use for each transaction. This will discourage skimming and pilfering.

(3) The system has deliberate redundancies which seem to be aimed at preventing employee theft.

(4) The inefficiencies in the system never seem to be intended to serve the consumers' interests but rather to protect the owner from his own employees.

(5) The method of transacting business seems to be nationwide and not just in Angeles or Cebu. It is probably taught in accounting programs nationwide where its practices are integrated into an entire business model. It is part of the national psyche as much as is driving on the right side of the road.

(6) Where did the PI get this system? Is it is a throwback to Spanish colonialism? Did the Americans teach them this business model along with instruction in English? Or is it a homegrown Philippine chestnut?
[/QUOTE]What is being described here is pretty much what goes on in black Africa. Plausibly for the same reasons (preventing theft by staff).

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2054747]

I have said many times before on this board that any guy using the exclusive criterion of "lots of available and willing women" as the primary basis on which to make a decision to live here will end up a sad and sorry person, especially if everything else irritates him. I originally came to work in Manila for 3 months and liked it enough to extend my contract to 2 years which has since morphed into 20 years. At no time was ease of mongering a factor in my decision-making although, of course, it is a nice sideline benefit. There are so many other aspects that I enjoy and for me, life is good.[/QUOTE]RK is again correct, the ready availability of sexual partners is a poor criterion for making the decision to live here. As many thoughtful expats would substantiate, it all gets rather old rather fast, and it's just not enough to sustain a meaningful lifestyle here or anywhere in SE Asia including Thailand, Malaysia or Indonesia, and I've lived and worked in two of the former three. I came here originally on a four-year contract to manage a program, and it's now 16 years later. Obviously, I've found more to my liking here than readily available sex and while I'm mildly bothered by some aspects of life, I find much more that I like. I find that when I do return to "civilization" in the West, 3 weeks is about enough for me and I start to miss this place after being away from it for brief periods.

Yes, the SWT availability is a lovely side benefit, but it's simply not nearly enough of a basis on which to relocate to this part of the world.

GE.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2054747]Your good old friend's philosophy is misplaced Om.

Thailand's structure and economy has outstripped the Philippines and yet their sex industry is many times larger than the Philippines, because there are literally millions more foreign visitors each year. These surplus foreigners with money are also attractive to Thais. KL (Malaysia) and Jakarta (Indonesia) also are much more advanced than the Philippines and foreigners with money attract women there too.

I have said many times before on this board that any guy using the exclusive criterion of "lots of available and willing women" as the primary basis on which to make a decision to live here will end up a sad and sorry person, especially if everything else irritates him. I originally came to work in Manila for 3 months and liked it enough to extend my contract to 2 years which has since morphed into 20 years. At no time was ease of mongering a factor in my decision-making although, of course, it is a nice sideline benefit. There are so many other aspects that I enjoy and for me, life is good.[/QUOTE]Yeah right, RK.

If the Philippine economy were like Japan, then Walking Street, Burgos, and the 3,000 peso bar fine would just be distant memories of the good old days.

And the simple reality is that many, although not all, of USA Are here because there are "lots of available and willing women".

OM.

P.S. Who said anything about living here.

Hi GE and RK,

Thanks for your many posts and insights, USA politics notwithstanding. Other than your work there (and the steady availability of sweet young things and a Filipina wife / family) what would you says are the main draws? Economy, of course, but what else keeps you there, please?

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2054826]RK is again correct. I find much more that I like. I find that when I do return to "civilization" in the West, 3 weeks is about enough for me and I start to miss this place after being away from it for brief periods.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=DCups;2054873]Hi GE and RK,

Thanks for your many posts and insights, USA politics notwithstanding. Other than your work there (and the steady availability of sweet young things and a Filipina wife / family) what would you says are the main draws? Economy, of course, but what else keeps you there, please?[/QUOTE]It's a good question D, and I'm not sure I can provide a succinct set of responses, though I'll try. I've spent most of the last 35 years or so overseas, and most of that time was spent in what are euphemistically called "developing countries," mostly in Africa, and Southeast Asia. During the time I spent in Africa I was actually based in France and during downtime spent most of my vacations either traveling through France or other Western European countries. Thus, I've not actually lived in my country of birth for a long time.

Generally, I've observed that long-term expats develop a worldview, or perhaps a loose set of perceptions or beliefs that evolve, over time, into a mindset that's different from those who remained in their countries of birth: not better necessarily, but different. In my case, which I'm sure is not unique, I found that I could adapt readily to new cultures, could be comfortable in a variety of cultures, but of course didn't belong to any of the cultures in which I was living or working. I also found that, having been away from the US for so long, I did not really fit in there either, and the longer I remained outside of the country the less comfortable I felt when I did return. This has little to do with politics per se, as my alienation started well before the election of Trump or Obama. So, the bottom line for me is that I felt, and still feel, more comfortable, more challenged and more fulfilled I suppose, in cultures that are not my own. I also feel less constrained.

Turning to the more specific question of what I find appealing about the Philippines, I'the have to start by stating that I've always enjoyed SE Asia, particularly Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines, which are the countries in which I've spent most of my working time. I could have been happy living in any of them, and in choosing the Philippines, I can't separate the reasons underlying my choice from the. Fact that I found here the best relationship with a woman that I've ever had, since this relationship figured hugely into my reason for remaining. Without it, I might have opted for a different country in the region. Having said that however, I have no problems citing factors that reinforce my choice of countries:

1. My academic interests lie in the study / understanding of different cultures and societies and ethnic groups. The Philippines offers an incredibly rich pastiche of languages, tribal cultures, ethnic groups and potpourri of customs that would take a lifetime to try to understand. I've been fortunate as well to have spent more than a decade in various Muslim areas of Mindanao, and working with highly differentiated Muslim cultures throughout the region, and this too has reinforced my interests.

2. I find the people of the Philippines among the most friendly, open and welcoming nationalities I've ever encountered, and I've made a lot of close Filipino friends. I'm not sure this would have been possible in other countries in the region that tend to be less permeable.

3. I think, to some small extent, my work here has made a positive difference in the lives of the people with whom I've worked. This has been for me, if not unique, then rare. I've worked in the field of Development almost my entire professional life, often believing that the programs I helped to design and / or implement had little or no impact. That's not been the case here, and it's highly satisfying to know I might have made a small contribution to the lives of several thousand Filipinos.

4. As absurd as this may sound, I've grown accustomed to the chaos, to the quasi-anarchy; the shrugging at rules, the impishness, the joie de vivre and the genuine joy that Filipinos seem to find in each other's company (and sometimes even in my company.).

5. The older I become, the more I appreciate the deference paid here to age. I like the preferences given to senior citizens. I like the fact that there are special lines for me in supermarkets and pharmacies. I appreciate the fact that I can jumpwithout incurring any resentmentto the head of a queue at the airport because of my senior citizen status. From this standpoint, the Philippines may be the best country I can think of in which to grow older.

Thanks for raising the question. You've made me think about the major aspects of life and culture here that cause me to stay. I hope my response wasn't too boring.

[QUOTE=DCups;2054873] what would you says are the main draws? Economy, of course, but what else keeps you there, please?[/QUOTE]Your generic, non-descript guy no one in USA gives a second glance at, in the Philippines can become a little king by virtue of a bit of the hard currency. There's no mystery why their boosted little egos are kept there.

[QUOTE=Golfinho;2055029]Your generic, non-descript guy no one in USA gives a second glance at, in the Philippines can become a little king by virtue of a bit of the hard currency. There's no mystery why their boosted little egos are kept there.[/QUOTE]A one size fits all answer based on nothing much in the way of facts and reflects nothing of the truth of the longer-term expats I know here. Of course it might provide a reasonable explanation for shorter term visitors such as yourself.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2055028]It's a good question D, and I'm not sure I can provide a succinct set of responses, though I'll try. I've spent most of the last 35 years or so overseas, and most of that time was spent in what are euphemistically called "developing countries," mostly in Africa, and Southeast Asia.

{Big snip}

Thanks for raising the question. You've made me think about the major aspects of life and culture here that cause me to stay. I hope my response wasn't too boring.[/QUOTE]Wow Good Enough, your post really resonates with me.

I too have spent a considerable time of my adult working life in other countries, although I am now marching rapidly towards retirement age in my home country. Australia. I, like you, find myself to be a little bit of an outsider in my home country mainly due to the different work / life experiences I have had compared to my friends. Where they are fairly intolerant and ignorant of the other cultures and nationalities that have made Australia home, I find myself being quite blasé about it all.

Your post has got me thinking, where do I want to spend my final years? Do I want to spend it in the predictability, comfort and safety of my home country and be bored out of my brain, or do I want to extend myself a little and find a nice overseas location that I can both afford and keep the feeling that I haven't seen all in life there is? I'm sure there is a PhD thesis somewhere in this topic, but thanks for getting me thinking.

Styk.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2055028]It's a good question D, and I'm not sure I can provide a succinct set of responses, though I'll try. I've spent most of the last 35 years or so overseas, and most of that time was spent in what are euphemistically called "developing countries," mostly in Africa, and Southeast Asia.

{Big snip}

Thanks for raising the question. You've made me think about the major aspects of life and culture here that cause me to stay. I hope my response wasn't too boring.[/QUOTE]Wow Good Enough, your post really resonates with me.

I too have spent a considerable time of my adult working life in other countries, although I am now marching rapidly towards retirement age in my home country Australia. I, like you, find myself to be a little bit of an outsider in my home country mainly due to the different work / life experiences I have had compared to my friends. Where they are fairly intolerant and ignorant of the other cultures and nationalities that have made Australia home, I find myself being quite blas about it all.

Your post has got me thinking, where do I want to spend my final years? Do I want to spend it in the predictability, comfort and safety of my home country and be bored out of my brain? Or do I want to extend myself a little and find a nice overseas location that I can both afford and keep the feeling that I haven't seen all in life there is? I'm sure there is a PhD thesis somewhere in this topic, but thanks for getting me thinking.

Styk.

Thanks for such a thoughtful response, GE. I don't find it boring at all. Quite the contrary. Like Stykler and you, I don't feel like I really fit in my home country USA any more. The bipartisan bickering, blatant disrespect for elders and authority, rampant feminism and homosexuality, an overall decline in mortality, interminable cell phone addiction and exorbitantly rising costs, especially in California, confirm my plan to exit to the PI in five. I lived in PI Angeles City as an airforce junior officer and became enamored with it back in the early 80's. Sure the girls were and still are incredibly beautifully feminine domestically inclined, tampo and lying notwithstanding, but there was and is a warmth and welcomeness that I have not quite seen the likes of in the other 25 countries I have visited. Now when I return to the PI once or twice a year I appreciate it even more despite the infrastructural and bureaucratic shortcomings. Travel is indeed the best education and I guess I'd rather be a big a bigger fish in a smaller sea than to be eaten alive in the ocean of anonymity that represents my existence in America. Plus, being an amateur musician, I think I will blend in quite nicely there.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2055028]It's a good question D, You've made me think about the major aspects of life and culture here that cause me to stay. [/QUOTE].

[QUOTE=DCups;2055212]beautifully feminine domestically inclined, tampo and lying notwithstanding,
.[/QUOTE]You really resonant with me with this one. I'm really just getting used to it. Life is better when I just let the lying go without comment.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2055058]A one size fits all answer based on nothing much in the way of facts and reflects nothing of the truth of the longer-term expats I know here. Of course it might provide a reasonable explanation for shorter term visitors such as yourself. [/QUOTE]The question was: "what keeps you there?" to which I've given you the answer. Shorter term visitors are an entirely different matter. Evidently in them you see an earlier version of yourself.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2055028]It's a good question D, and I'm not sure I can provide a succinct set of responses, though I'll try. I've spent most of the last 35 years or so overseas, and most of that time was spent in what are euphemistically called "developing countries," mostly in Africa, and Southeast Asia. During the time I spent in Africa I was actually based in France and during downtime spent most of my vacations either traveling through France or other Western European countries. Thus, I've not actually lived in my country of birth for a long time.

Generally, I've observed that long-term expats develop a worldview, or perhaps a loose set of perceptions or beliefs that evolve, over time, into a mindset that's different from those who remained in their countries of birth: not better necessarily, but different. In my case, which I'm sure is not unique, I found that I could adapt readily to new cultures, could be comfortable in a variety of cultures, but of course didn't belong to any of the cultures in which I was living or working. I also found that, having been away from the US for so long, I did not really fit in there either, and the longer I remained outside of the country the less comfortable I felt when I did return. This has little to do with politics per se, as my alienation started well before the election of Trump or Obama..[/QUOTE]1. The Philippines offers absolutely nothing in terms of having a culture, architecture or an extensive history such as Japan, China or even Western Europe. The local cuisines is full of nothing but cholesterol, trans fat and sugar and leaves much to be desired. As for visiting the Southern Muslim dominated islands for fear of appearing to be a prejudiced I will just stay this is something I would not recommend as most foreign governments wisely advise on their respective consular pages.

2. In all my years of living in the Philippines I made one life long-local friend as I was very discerning with whom I interacted with as I found most of the population to be corrupt, morally bankrupt and in their delusional minds beyond reproach. Filipinos / Filipinas tend not to dwell on things such as age or outward appearance due their amazing ability to only worry about the "economic advantages" or "fun factor" of certain associations.

3. I was never employed there and I am grateful I didn't have to rely on the archaic, zany country for an income. Doing mundane things such as going to the grocery store or acquiring simple things such as driver license presented problems that I would say don't present themselves in the West. Out of all my years of living there I probably paid more taxes than the average Filipino will in their lifetime due to the various things I owned but not once was I made to feel like anything more than a foreigner. Nationalism and extreme racism is pervasive.

4. This is one point we agree as they are very social beings and love being in the company of one another and others but lets not kid ourselves the easy access to sex is the one of the only reason you love the place as most mongers.

5. I am in the middle of the road in terms of age but older gentlemen such as yourself love the Philippines for one reason and one reason only that they are able find women half or 1/4 their age willing to sleep with them for small amounts money. Other than that there is really no reason to reside in the country.

Intelligent expats (The foreigners who are aware of the dangers) live in utter fear in the county as one complaint against you from a local or crossing path with rogue cop / official or any powerful / rich Filipino can have disastrous outcomes for the would be expat.

There are hundreds of reports of foreigners, extorted, arrested under false pretense and brutally murdered over the years.

[URL]https://philippineslocksupaussie.wordpress.com/2013/08/04/so-close-and-yet-so-far-dannys-deportation-denied-due-to-bi-blunder/[/URL]

[URL]http://philippineslifestyle.com/blog/2015/06/25/us-marine-killed-in-2012-has-his-killer-walk-free-by-makati-city-judge/[/URL]

[URL]http://globalnation.inquirer.net/127465/4-workers-charged-for-killing-american-wife-in-negros-occidental[/URL]

[URL]http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/467247/american-diver-who-helped-search-for-robredo-killed[/URL]

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/metro/584983/german-hotel-exec-shot-dead-makati[/URL]

[QUOTE=Golfinho;2055029]Your generic, non-descript guy no one in USA gives a second glance at, in the Philippines can become a little king by virtue of a bit of the hard currency. There's no mystery why their boosted little egos are kept there.[/QUOTE]In the West, and especially the United States, the elderly men are shoved aside and resented. However, in the Philippines their social security checks are valued and they are still useful. They can still have sex with younger women in Southeast Asia, whereas back in the USA They are reviled as dirty old men or perverts. Americans cringe at the thought of middle aged people having sex and men are expected to become sexless upon entering this period of life. So, it really comes down to staying in the West and becoming irrelevant or moving to the Philippines and becoming a sought after peso millionaire. Many opt for the latter situation.

[QUOTE=DarkKnight1;2055466]1. The Philippines offers absolutely nothing in terms of having a culture, architecture or an extensive history such as Japan, China or even Western Europe. The local cuisines is full of nothing but cholesterol, trans fat and sugar and leaves much to be desired. As for visiting the Southern Muslim dominated islands for fear of appearing to be a prejudiced I will just stay this is something I would not recommend as most foreign governments wisely advise on their respective consular pages.

2. In all my years of living in the Philippines I made one life long-local friend as I was very discerning with whom I interacted with as I found most of the population to be corrupt, morally bankrupt and in their delusional minds beyond reproach. Filipinos / Filipinas tend not to dwell on things such as age or outward appearance due their amazing ability to only worry about the "economic advantages" or "fun factor" of certain associations.

3. I was never employed there and I am grateful I didn't have to rely on the archaic, zany country for an income. Doing mundane things such as going to the grocery store or acquiring simple things such as driver license presented problems that I would say don't present themselves in the West. Out of all my years of living there I probably paid more taxes than the average Filipino will in their lifetime due to the various things I owned but not once was I made to feel like anything more than a foreigner. Nationalism and extreme racism is pervasive.

4. This is one point we agree as they are very social beings and love being in the company of one another and others but lets not kid ourselves the easy access to sex is the one of the only reason you love the place as most mongers.

5. I am in the middle of the road in terms of age but older gentlemen such as yourself love the Philippines for one reason and one reason only that they are able find women half or 1/4 their age willing to sleep with them for small amounts money. Other than that there is really no reason to reside in the country.

Intelligent expats (The foreigners who are aware of the dangers) live in utter fear in the county as one complaint against you from a local or crossing path with rogue cop / official or any powerful / rich Filipino can have disastrous outcomes for the would be expat.

There are hundreds of reports of foreigners, extorted, arrested under false pretense and brutally murdered over the years.

[URL]https://philippineslocksupaussie.wordpress.com/2013/08/04/so-close-and-yet-so-far-dannys-deportation-denied-due-to-bi-blunder/[/URL]

[URL]http://philippineslifestyle.com/blog/2015/06/25/us-marine-killed-in-2012-has-his-killer-walk-free-by-makati-city-judge/[/URL]

[URL]http://globalnation.inquirer.net/127465/4-workers-charged-for-killing-american-wife-in-negros-occidental[/URL]

[URL]http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/467247/american-diver-who-helped-search-for-robredo-killed[/URL]

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/metro/584983/german-hotel-exec-shot-dead-makati[/URL][/QUOTE]It would be safe to say the Philippines is not for you. Glad to hear that.

Your PM box is full.

[QUOTE=DarkKnight1;2055466]1. The Philippines offers absolutely nothing in terms of having a culture,

2. In all my years of living in the Philippines I made one life long-local friend as I was very discerning with whom I interacted with as I found most of the population to be corrupt, morally bankrupt and in their delusional minds beyond reproach.

3. I but not once was I made to feel like anything more than a foreigner. Nationalism and extreme racism is pervasive.

5. I am in the middle of the road in terms of age but older gentlemen such as yourself love the Philippines for one reason and one reason only that they are able find women half or 1/4 their age willing to sleep with them for small amounts money. Other than that there is really no reason to reside in the country.

Intelligent expats (The foreigners who are aware of the dangers) live in utter fear in the county as one complaint against you from a local or crossing path with rogue cop / official or any powerful / rich Filipino can have disastrous outcomes for the would be expat.

There are hundreds of reports of foreigners, extorted, arrested under false pretense and brutally murdered over the years.
[/QUOTE]It sounds like you spent you time here cowering in fear, while detesting the country that filled you so full of contempt. Of course I don't know you, but I can't help but wonder given the acidulousness of your post, why you stayed. I'm guessing that either you worked for a foreign company and the salary you earned offset your quivering fear, or you somehow enjoyed wallowing in your dislike of the place since it made you feel superior to those around you.

I find most of your sweeping generalizations simply absurd. For example you indicate that most "intelligent expats live in utter fear. " which is totally contrary to my experience, since the "intelligent" expats I know remain here because they like the place, willingly tolerate its idiosyncrasies, and view the ready availability of young women as a minor fringe benefit. Again, you claim (never having met me) thatdespite my rather lengthy explanation of why I live here I'm wrong and only stay because of the women. I'd say given that fact we don't (thankfully) know each other, your blatant disgregard of what of what I said smacks of smirking ignorance, unfounded hubris or both. If you had actually read my post a bit more carefully you might have noticed my comments that younger women are readily available in many countries in SE Asia, Africa and (so I’m told) S. America, so obviously this country is not unique in that regard.

Given your contempt for the country and its people, it's unsurprising that you were made to feel like a foreigner and developed so few local friends. Why would any local want to befriend anyone who holds him (or her) and the country in such complete disregard? In fact your entire jeremiad against the Philippines sounds like the peevish reaction of a jilted lover.

As to the racism and nationalism that you claim is characteristic of the country, I would counter that these pale in comparison to those of the US and the views of the "America first" point of view of the teeming Trumpian masses.

GE.

[QUOTE=DarkKnight1;2055466]1. The Philippines offers absolutely nothing in terms of having a culture, architecture or an extensive history such as Japan, China or even Western Europe. The local cuisines is full of nothing but cholesterol, trans fat and sugar and leaves much to be desired. As for visiting the Southern Muslim dominated islands for fear of appearing to be a prejudiced I will just stay this is something I would not recommend as most foreign governments wisely advise on their respective consular pages.[/QUOTE]Apart from the above comment which I tend to agree with (well mostly re the food and even GE would agree with that) the rest of your rant was 'amusing' is at best misguided and misinformed.

You don't say where you live as clearly it can't be in a nice condo in a large city where many expats like myself and others I know don't cower in fear but actually wake up, go to the coffee shop and have breakfast etc. And start the day with a smile (if not a BBBJ and CIM before that LOL).

If you think people are here purely for the ladies that is mistaken as that fun does not last long when living here and you settle down and realise there is more to life. When you visit this is not evident I agree.

Making friends is easy keeping, them is another matter and I suspect you have trouble with the latter as your attitude seems 'superior' based on your posts.

Also are you friends with Amavida who ran away tail between his legs as he was scared and frightened to Thailand (where there is a military dictatorship) - or are you Amavida under a different handle or maybe you are bitter because of personal circumstances regarding pinays and decided to vent your spleen here for a change.

Your comments have been read and GE and DG both replied saying you are wrong (as I am). If the country is not for you why stay? Leave as you have a choice that many pinoys don't have but wish they did. Make everyone's lives happier by doing that and post comments in a forum of a country you like and love to live in rather than here as your observations are rather one sided and myopic IMHO.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2055822]It sounds like you...Of course I don't know you, but the place since it made you feel superior to those around you. GE.[/QUOTE]Responding to this guy with nothing but your own projections, but it is at least the nearest thing to honesty coming out of you, however unwittingly.

Anyway, for all lower delta and omega guys like you who don't have the means, talent, abilities, merit, whatever it takes to have success in their home countries, there's always a place like the Philippines you can run to and attempt to realize your fantasies. So, spare us your window dressing and rationalizations; you're really doing nothing but making yourself sound ridiculous.

[QUOTE=DarkKnight1;2055466]1. The Philippines offers absolutely nothing in terms of having a culture, architecture or an extensive history such as Japan, China or even Western Europe. [/QUOTE]Obviously you are not or even attended any history lessons. In my last visit, I was able to go to Museums in Cebu and learn about the long time Philippines history and culture and also saw some history in Letye. There are many places in Philippines you should visit and learn about the country's history. No one country's history is the same as another. It is what it is. You cannot compare one country's history with another and say, this one is better. What is better? More deaths, battles, dictators etc? Does it make it better? If you are looking for your own culture in Philippines, then you are on the wrong track. Accept the country for what it is or you'll always have a difficult time. In some countries, if you continue with your smug attitude, you'll be run out of the country or found in a ditch.

My favorite bit of Phil. History is that Magellen wasn't happy about a certain tribe on the island which is now called Mactan. He floated his warship up to the coast and got his butt kicked big time.

[QUOTE=LifeIsABeach;2056197]Obviously you are not or even attended any history lessons. In my last visit, I was able to go to Museums in Cebu and learn about the long time Philippines history and culture and also saw some history in Letye. There are many places in Philippines you should visit and learn about the country's history. No one country's history is the same as another. It is what it is. You cannot compare one country's history with another and say, this one is better. What is better? More deaths, battles, dictators etc? Does it make it better? If you are looking for your own culture in Philippines, then you are on the wrong track. Accept the country for what it is or you'll always have a difficult time. In some countries, if you continue with your smug attitude, you'll be run out of the country or found in a ditch.[/QUOTE]

Thanks to the gents for their comments and wisdom.

[QUOTE=SaltyPete;2054001]I would have taken a picture of the receipt with my phone. I mean, that is literally a photo copy. You could have printed it at the hotel if you needed.

Part of me thinks you intentionally chose to play the game, to pull the thread. If I had gotten to the point of receiving a photocopy then directed to the non-moving line, I would have given the girl the 50, walked away and let her deal with it.[/QUOTE]The photocopy on my phone would have been a great idea. Unfortunately, it didn't dawn on me at the time (I've used it in the past). The other idea of just walking out and copying it at my hotel DID dawn on me. Your idea of dropping the p50 and walking out didn't dawn on me. It was what it was.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2053994]Westy. I know you are a calm and patient fellow but even that must have driven you crazy. I have also has 'frustrations' such as yours but never bothered to see it through as you managed.[/QUOTE]The situation was liveable until the point when the lady next to the cashier lied (no manager available is bola in any language). I was not about to depart without talking to management. It became my gentle but persistent quest.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2053994]The Globe Express counter in Ayala, Cebu) was never express and could be an hour before being served for something very simple. Worse if there were Koreans in queue which for me meant for me "come back another day". [/QUOTE]This is an interesting cultural schism, and more. We westerners don't like waiting. Pinoy don't mind waiting. Regular westerners understand both of those things. But there are chunks of pinoy who only understand one side of the schism (they don't mind waiting), but not necessarily the other side (westerners don't like waiting).

Example. Recently I was visiting a pinay regular in her province (met the fam before). Over a lot of red horse and food, she was to my left, chatting her cousins and lolo. To my right, her tita had my ear, we were talking about american culture. Out of my left ear I was mildly paying attention to my girl's conversation in the local language. She herself was telling them of how both myself and a previous foreign boyfriend behaved (she assumed I was not paying attention). She used the example of her former BF would not go to a remit place to send money as there is often a wait time. He gave the girl money to send to other people, sending her there to wait in line. One of the cousins asked rather forecefully why the guy would not go himself and wait. Before my girl could answer, one of the other cousins said, quietly and in engrish: "because his time is like gold to him". They quietly took that in. I explained to them that my boss gives me xxxxx pesos per hour and requires me to work sometimes even when I'm on vacation. If I have to spend 20 minutes in transport and waste 40 minutes in line at Cebuana to send or pick up money, then I am not working, and xxxxx pesos are not paid. Money lost. Not only did that sink in, but I mistakenly used an approximate number when I said xxxxx pesos per hour. There were a lot of wide eyes when I said that (one of the things that makes them think all foreigner are rich). I asked: Is it worth a pxxxxx loss to myself or my company to send 1500 to someone? When I can easily send their cousin (who has no trabajo and no kids and little to do) to do it for me (just like her previous BF)? They got that. My point is simple: Most all of us get the two sides of time = money vs complacency, but many pinoy don't. As the number of foreigners here grows (provinces included), both sides must have an understanding of each other.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2053980]Ah Westy, your post invoked so many memories of so many similar situations. I think the problem is you were looking for logic in a country which doesn't operate according to the laws of logic; or at least no logic I've ever been able to fathom. Filipinos are so habituated to crap service that they likely believe it to be the norm, so they wait, docilely thinking (to the extent they ever wonder at all), that the entire planet must be like this. And I don't believe the provincial location had much to do with it: I've run into identical situations in Davao and in Makati.[/QUOTE]These kind of posts, on occasion, spotlight the culture as it is. They are (from time to time) good for the board and the Internet readership in general, for those persons considering coming here. These kinds of posts, while infrequent, should continue, if for no other reason than the newbs*. If it gets posted only once, a year from now it rolls way back into the thread, and anyone who RTTF might miss these kinds of things. If the board were only for us regulars, there would be no need to post these on occasion. When they are posted from time-to-time then outsiders will know exactly what RK is talking about: That the hurry-up-and-wait thing is common, as is the face-saving-give-any-answer thing.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2053992]I don't get it WC.

You return to the Philippines every 3 months or so and keep on doing it again and again and yet you spent an inordinate amount of time reporting these lowest-common-denominator instances of bizarre experiences.

I don't understand why a country that obviously attracts you also makes you wish to openly denigrate both the people and their quaint processes.[/QUOTE]With great respect Red, I'm sure that post was perceived both a bit denigrating and a bit eye-opening (to newbs). On occasion myself, GE, WR or other posts something about the complacency of pinoy culture. Certainly we could do that everyday, but one from time-to-time is good for the board. The regulars don't need to be reminded of it, but if we never post those, its difficult to tell newbs to RTTF to get a feel for the culture*.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2053992]If you lived here like I do you would know that events of this kind are common and so are best avoided. Why anyone would want a photocopy of a receipt already provided is likely to bewilder most people. That's where your problem started. Surely you know by now that all cash exchanges in department stores must be enacted through a cashier.[/QUOTE]I'm already aware that events like this are common. My desire was to report an egregious one. I wanted the copy of the receipt because the girl, who must use the phone and keep the receipt for warranty purposes, will lose it (that's my experience). However, my reasoning or desire are not at issue here. More at issue are two things: a cultural dependence on a system that is inherently slow, and a large number of employees who cannot point to the existence or location of management. I had a local language speaker with me who was also asking for management. At what point does this employee behavior rise to the level of incompetence (or give the appearance)? And at what point is denying that management exists a firing offense to the organization? As an analogy, if you managed a McDonalds in either Aus or Phils, and you discovered that most of the front-counter staff could not point you out on the premises when a customer asked for a manager (after being told to do just that, as the Complaint Desk lady told me), what would you do?

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2053992]Your second mistake was to try to prove some sort of point (I am not sure what it is) to people for whom English is a second language. If you had managed to speak to "management", I am curious to know what would have been a successful outcome for you? Opening a 2nd cash register for you to pay your 2 pesos more quickly?[/QUOTE]A lane with modern scanning equipment would be one thought (for some purchased items, the cashier is looking up item numbers on a placard and entering the item number into the cash register computer to look up the price -- short of utilizing a handheld calculator, it couldn't get much more archaic or take much longer). However, I was simply registering the complaint (things don't change without complaints). A customer can do that, and leave to management to decide if it rises to the level of change. Its not the customer's job to figure out better ways to do biz, that's the realm of management. Its the customer's *place* to suggest change or register discomfort.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2053992]Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.

The courage to change the things I can.

And the wisdom to know the difference.[/QUOTE]I choose a different model. Pushing back against a constraining system is one way to grow the system. As Koreans and others continue to flood into the country (just visit Ayala Cebu), the culture must accommodate. I'm only a mild believer in the Star Trek Prime Directive. Fifteen years ago very few businesses in phils took a Visa credit card. Today I use it often even in the province (used it right there in that same department store). Imagine if every foreigner had adopted the Prime Directive and just used cash all the time (a painful and somewhat dangerous system as carrying cash invites robbery) because that's how the locals do it? In another province recently I visited Starbucks one morning and while paying with my credit card (still a slow process as one must sign 2 pieces of paper). I thought: How long until they advance to a faster customer-swipe-and-walk-away technology, or better a simple-pay technology that exists elsewhere (ie, Android Pay or such), that allows the customer to skip the CC completely and just touch his phone to the credit card machine for a quick receiptless-pay-out-the-door experience? Is it wrong to suggest to the clerk that they look into that to save me time?

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2053992]After my 20 years here I only ever take on major areas of inefficiency if I wish to make a point AND try to get a process changed. In other words, I choose my battles wisely.[/QUOTE]Its good advice, but this time I chose something different. As I had time on my hands, I thought it was a good exercise (and a good report here) in just how far down the rabbit hole one might have to go to get to a manager in a department store. This was not a language issue. "Where can I find manager?" Spoken by me in english, and my girl in local language, drew vastly different responses from different clerks. In a nearby province, in the same brand mall, I tried this experience again a week later. I just walked up to several clerks and asked where I could find a manager. All of them pointed me in the right direction without needing to ask someone else for help. One even offered to call a manager to my location (sweet). Why the difference between the two identical malls in different cities?

*Side note. I walked out of my hotel one morning and there was a white man walking past on the sidewalk pulling luggage. He was not departing or entering the hotel, he was just walking down the street. Odd. He stopped me with "Sir? Sir? Can I ask you something?" (northeast US accent) Ah, sure. He asked several things all at once (they exploded out of him): "Are all philipino women stupid? Is the whole country stupid? Why can't these women be on time to anything? What's wrong with these people? Is it just me?" Kind of like that. I was taken aback, and considered walking away. I asked him to step into the shade, and I gave him the short version that all of what he was experiencing was based on cultural differences. No, they are not stupid, its just an appearance. Time is more relative to pinoy. Being on time is not considered as important. Being on time is not always possible due to traffic. You need to get a hotel room fella. You didn't research this stuff before flying here? And so on. BTW, I was embarrassed by how he was talking. A private conversation with him would have been fine, but there were locals passing by and he was speaking loudly.

If we don't have occasional posts here regarding those difficulties, how does the newb get his head around those things before he comes?

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2053966]I was calm through this.
I asked the clerk to make me a photocopy of the hand-written receipt. She said that they had no copy machine, and instructed me to the mall's department store for a scan. I left the pinay at the phone company wrapping things up (she was looking at some other stuff) while I wandered next door for a photocopy.
Blah, blah, blah
Blah, blah, blah
Soooooo. We get downstairs to a desk marked "Complaint Desk".
She said that she would talk with each of the employees that I had mentioned, and also one of the managers in the management office. [/QUOTE]Too much demand for nothing. If you cannot understand the culture or the ways of a country, you need to change.

Are you going to pay for the real time cash registers in the stores in the mall? If not, do not complain. Waiting for things done varies in every country. In some countries, it could take even hours and days to get things done. Put your USA way of doing things in your back pocket when you go abroad. In France, an appointment for today may not be till tomorrow. In Morocco, the girls did keep keep the appointment but 6 hours later. That's way it is. There is NO reason for other countries to follow the burn yourself to death with fast, fast, now, now, stress, stress, instant gratification culture. Take your time and smell the roses. It's better in other countries, less stress. I remember my first time time in Morocco, I had already had breakfast in my rented condo and about 1.00 pm went to the big market for lunch. The old lady told me that it was Breakfast time and the dish I wanted would be later. Alright, I'll have breakfast! Life is good not being in the fast lane. Slow, slow is better. Be happy and not a good idea wasting time and effort filing a complaint over 2 p. Even in USA, many times, the Manager is not available all the time. Different shifts or may be out on on other matters. Just keep calm and enjoy life.

[QUOTE=LifeIsABeach;2056691]

Are you going to pay for the real time cash registers in the stores in the mall? If not, do not complain. Waiting for things done varies in every country. Just keep calm and enjoy life.[/QUOTE]There are real time cash registers in most malls. The real issue I believe is that the focus on commercial transactions here is difference, and the stress is less on customer service than ensuring that employees have limited opportunities to steal. This remains largely a cash economy, and the owners / senior managers of commercial establishments limit employees' access to cash by insisting that one person and only a very limited number of people are able to handle the transactions.

As to taking the time to smell the roses, I agree. I remember, when I first started worked in Paris and was told by my French colleagues over lunch that: "This is France. This is not the United States. Here, we work to live; there, you live to work. " Internalizing that simple remark changed my whole outlook on life over the ensuring years. Living here, if you don't learn to take the lack of efficiency in stride, you're dooming yourself to high stress levels.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2057082]There are real time cash registers in most malls. The real issue I believe is that the focus on commercial transactions here is difference, and the stress is less on customer service than ensuring that employees have limited opportunities to steal. This remains largely a cash economy, and the owners / senior managers of commercial establishments limit employees' access to cash by insisting that one person and only a very limited number of people are able to handle the transactions.

As to taking the time to smell the roses, I agree. I remember, when I first started worked in Paris and was told by my French colleagues over lunch that: "This is France. This is not the United States. Here, we work to live; there, you live to work. " Internalizing that simple remark changed my whole outlook on life over the ensuring years. Living here, if you don't learn to take the lack of efficiency in stride, you're dooming yourself to high stress levels. GE.[/QUOTE]Agreed. Corruption takes over efficiency in Philippines. Frankly, I do not care. I consider myself a guest in another country and go by their flow. Right now, I am so happy to have ditched the USA way of work and even if someone comes to me with a wad of dollars to do what I used to do, even for a very short time, I'll say NO Way. I have a lot less money by taking early retirement and will be outa USA within the next 6 months. Simply can't wait to leave.

[QUOTE=LifeIsABeach;2057162]Agreed. Corruption takes over efficiency in Philippines. Frankly, I do not care. I consider myself a guest in another country and go by their flow. Right now, I am so happy to have ditched the USA way of work and even if someone comes to me with a wad of dollars to do what I used to do, even for a very short time, I'll say NO Way. I have a lot less money by taking early retirement and will be outa USA within the next 6 months. Simply can't wait to leave.[/QUOTE]I hear you, and I agree, particularly with the US the way it is now. The simple lesson is you learn to adapt, and revel in those aspects of the country that you find appealing, or you walk around full of resentment and anger while you're here in which case you're not going to last long.

GE.

[QUOTE=LifeIsABeach;2056691]Too much demand for nothing. If you cannot understand the culture or the ways of a country, you need to change.[/QUOTE]As stated, I understand it. I was polite in my dealings. That I'd like part of it to change becomes irrelevant, as the culture is in the midst of change. Its not demand for nothing if I'm willing to pay for it (see below).

[QUOTE=LifeIsABeach;2056691]Are you going to pay for the real time cash registers in the stores in the mall? If not, do not complain. [/QUOTE]Yes, I'm willing to pay for it. In fact we are all have been paying for it in other countries. As businesses move towards plastic as payment (and POS scanners that go with it), stores recalculate the increased prices to account for the technology (and to account for the % loss to Visa). Hence, we all pay for that. While still a cash society, Phils is in the midst of moving more towards plastic for payment (has been slowly going on for some time now). Phils is just behind in timeframe. Spent 2 weeks recently in the Mindanao province, used my CC in quite a few POS places (pretty non-existent 5 years ago). Doesn't matter if I gripe or not, the change will occur.

A quick question for the group.

I see in quite a few reports people talk about the need to cleanup in between visits by different girls, and how important that is. Naturally, it is a 'gentlemanly' thing to do (such as it is in the mongering game), and you don't want to throw the last girl in the face of the new one, but.

Surely 99% + of the girls know exactly why they are there, and that if they are there on such a basis, that you are almost certainly in the game with many other girls, and therefore actually wouldn't really care that another girl had been there? I get that it is nice to not be so blatant about it, and I would always do the same, but does it actually matter?

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2058444]A quick question for the group.

I see in quite a few reports people talk about the need to cleanup in between visits by different girls, and how important that is. Naturally, it is a 'gentlemanly' thing to do (such as it is in the mongering game), and you don't want to throw the last girl in the face of the new one, but.

Surely 99% + of the girls know exactly why they are there, and that if they are there on such a basis, that you are almost certainly in the game with many other girls, and therefore actually wouldn't really care that another girl had been there? I get that it is nice to not be so blatant about it, and I would always do the same, but does it actually matter?[/QUOTE]Filipinas are fabulous about copying each other. So if one girl is called Irish another 100 will be. If one girl puts " open minded " on a profile another 100 will do. So equally if one girl thinks a guy is a player, all her friends will also be on the alert for players and thus she becomes conditioned to look for evidence of a guys misdeeds.

Where do you think the phrase " see how you are " originates or " babaero " the same.

Yes you are correct theres no need to go crazy and do a CSI type sweep of the room, with UV light etc but equally its fine to be a little sensitive. Having a garbage bin with used panty liners or hair on the pillow, or unflushed / unflushable condoms in the bowl, might lead to a less than satisfactory outcome. We all play this in different ways but I think most of us have felt the full force of Pinay upset, from the silent treatment to the shouting scene. Whatever the reaction it never goes very well and prevention will ensure a better nights romp. Shoving the evidence in a girls face, no matter her profession will almost always result in a less happy night.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2058444]
I see in quite a few reports people talk about the need to cleanup in between visits by different girls, and how important that is. Naturally, it is a 'gentlemanly' thing to do (such as it is in the mongering game), and you don't want to throw the last girl in the face of the new one, but.[/QUOTE]Cleaning up in between visits just saves so many questions. I am always trying to keep it good. Empty bins etc. But I'm not perfect.

A few weeks ago.

"Do you have a GF? Um No.

"Do you bring many girls here? Um No. , Why you ask?

"Do you panty liners?

So the bathroom bin is a definite for emptying between visits.

Then there was the night my GF was cleaning her hair out of my hair brush and did a forensic investigation of hair colour and texture. It was evidence that I simply could not deny. I just confessed to it. How have you guys handled the bathroom forensics before?

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2058529]Cleaning up in between visits just saves so many questions. I am always trying to keep it good. Empty bins etc. But I'm not perfect.


So the bathroom bin is a definite for emptying between visits.

Then there was the night my GF was cleaning her hair out of my hair brush and did a forensic investigation of hair colour and texture. It was evidence that I simply could not deny. I just confessed to it. How have you guys handled the bathroom forensics before?

BD.[/QUOTE]Firstly I call the hotel and ask it to clean the room again (small tip maybe required but worth it).

If you are in an airbnb place etc, I would use FF methods (I have before) but double check as some ladies deliberately leave things behind. Example one friend found a g string under the pillow, another one found it under the bed. Some are devious (and jealous as that to them equals love).

I have said "I had a massage before you came so must have been her when she went to the CR / toilet" - that seems to work.

Another ofl friend handled it by buying new crockery / glassware and refurbishing some of the bathroom his aldy wrecked / smashed when she found tell tale evidence. And a text message from me to him suggesting we meet at my place for some reason she found me a tad "babaero" and did not trust me imagine that!

Change rooms often.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2058529]Cleaning up in between visits just saves so many questions. I am always trying to keep it good. Empty bins etc. But I'm not perfect.

A few weeks ago.

"Do you have a GF? Um No.

"Do you bring many girls here? Um No. , Why you ask?

"Do you panty liners?

So the bathroom bin is a definite for emptying between visits.

Then there was the night my GF was cleaning her hair out of my hair brush and did a forensic investigation of hair colour and texture. It was evidence that I simply could not deny. I just confessed to it. How have you guys handled the bathroom forensics before?

BD.[/QUOTE].

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2058529]Cleaning up in between visits just saves so many questions. I am always trying to keep it good. Empty bins etc. But I'm not perfect.

A few weeks ago.

"Do you have a GF? Um No.

"Do you bring many girls here? Um No. , Why you ask?

"Do you panty liners?

So the bathroom bin is a definite for emptying between visits.

Then there was the night my GF was cleaning her hair out of my hair brush and did a forensic investigation of hair colour and texture. It was evidence that I simply could not deny. I just confessed to it. How have you guys handled the bathroom forensics before?

BD.[/QUOTE]In hotels, I call inordinately often to request cleaning service with 50 or 100 peso tip to the poor drudge that keeps coming back. In condos, I'll have a local stop by on a schedule to clean but just otherwise glance around and remove the worst mood-spoiling evidence. "Yaya" from one of my earlier FRs intentionlly left her panties on the floor on the ladies side of the bed near the wall. She went home pantieless?? I kept the thoughtful souvenir. She also wrote her full name in big letters on the notepad by the phone. I'm sure both were seen by several guests before I found them. No CSI here.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2058589]Firstly I call the hotel and ask it to clean the room again (small tip maybe required but worth it).

If you are in an airbnb place etc, I would use FF methods (I have before) but double check as some ladies deliberately leave things behind. Example one friend found a g string under the pillow, another one found it under the bed. Some are devious (and jealous as that to them equals love).

I have said "I had a massage before you came so must have been her when she went to the CR / toilet" - that seems to work.

Another ofl friend handled it by buying new crockery / glassware and refurbishing some of the bathroom his aldy wrecked / smashed when she found tell tale evidence. And a text message from me to him suggesting we meet at my place for some reason she found me a tad "babaero" and did not trust me imagine that![/QUOTE]Ha. I used exactly thre " I had a massage " line also when a few hairs were found on the pillow that somehow I had missed.

What is interesting here is the extent of panty loss these ladies suffer. Not one, but two very small tbacks were found by someone who shouldn't have found them, which caused many many many problems.

No idea why girls leave panties under the bed, behind the bed, in hard to find places but I guess its a marking of territory the way dogs [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140][CodeWord140][/url] on lamp posts?

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2058845]No idea why girls leave panties under the bed, behind the bed, in hard to find places but I guess its a marking of territory the way dogs ,,,, on lamp posts?[/QUOTE]Exactly that FF, they see it as sign off love as shows you there are jealous which to many pinays equals love but we all know that it does not and many times I have pointed this out and also walked away.

Also they want you exclusively which of course we like also LOL (well until the next threesome).

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2058444]A quick question for the group.

I see in quite a few reports people talk about the need to cleanup in between visits by different girls, and how important that is. Naturally, it is a 'gentlemanly' thing to do (such as it is in the mongering game), and you don't want to throw the last girl in the face of the new one, but.

Surely 99% + of the girls know exactly why they are there, and that if they are there on such a basis, that you are almost certainly in the game with many other girls, and therefore actually wouldn't really care that another girl had been there? I get that it is nice to not be so blatant about it, and I would always do the same, but does it actually matter?[/QUOTE]Sanitising is a subject near and dear to me. This is the dial-it-to-11 guide when you have dating-site girls visiting and many of them are repeats. You may dial it back for bar girls and other one-time visitors.

[b]CR[/b]

Towels: make up and lipstick are smeared on them.
Soap and bottles: stray hair stuck on it.
Drain: hair always collects there.
Shower curtain: step in the shower and draw the curtain. Hose it down.
Bin: always keep a plastic bin liner / bag in it. Toss the entire bag, not just the contents. Look inside the bin because sometimes items are 'placed' in it under the liner.
Hairbrushes: always examine and remove all hair.
Mirror: examine for handprints and makeup.
Basin, toilet, and tub: wash.

Sit on toilet and close the door. Examine the room from the girl's viewpoint.

If you have a small rug in the CR shake it out in the tub.

[b]Bedroom[/b]

Linen: keep a change of pillow cases and sheets available. After the girl leaves swap. If this is impossible pull all sheets and shake. This will shake loose stray earrings, hair, dentures (hat tip Westie), etc. Remake bed. Examine for stains and hair. Use a stain stick for spot cleaning.

Floor: sweep. Make sure to look beside and under bed for condom wrappers, Kentucky jelly tubes, toys, ties, ribbons, whatever.

Mirror and vanity: examine for handprints and makeup, especially powered foundation. If the vanity has a chair they're will be foundation on it too.

[b]Kitchen and living room[/b]
Take all glasses, silverware, and plates and wash immediately. After drying place back in cupboard and drawers. Two glasses sitting in the drying rack is a sign you had a guest. Toss the kitchen rubbish.

Check windows for handprints. Hat tip Skogis for this tip.

"But I have regular-visitor girls over who leave personal hygiene items like shampoo, toothbrushes, and even some clothes and a pair of slippers at my place. I have another girl coming over this afternoon, and my regular will return at night."

Your mobile is your friend. Photo everything first after the regular leaves. Put her items into a bag and stow away. Replace the bin liner but do not toss. Save some of her hairs you found on the floor and on the bed. Hide away all these items. After your afternoon guest leaves clean up. Then, grab those bags you stashed earlier and replace the items where they were. Put her slippers back beside the door. Hang her items in the closet. Put her toothbrush back. Replace the sheets back to what she saw in the morning. Put the bin liner with her refuse back into the bin. Spread some of her hairs back on the floor and on the pillow case - they don't need to be exactly where they were. Change the TV channel back to one she knows you watch; if you're not an ABS-CBN viewer she ought not see that when she turns it on. Eject DVD from player.

Repeat girls who know you will look for patterns and discrepancies. If you're always untidy and then they see tidiness, they'll suspect. It's safest to be consistently tidy because you'll develop a routine and it keeps the cockroaches away.

And have some explanations ready. "Why is this tube of lube here?" I was jerking off.

Pro tip: double up on items. For example, if she knows you have a full tube of lube and three condoms, and 10 hours later you have half a tube of lube and 1 condom, you have some 'splainin to do. If you have spares stored away you avoid awkward questions.

Lastly, on your computer create a second clean user account that doesn't have admin rights. Before she comes over log off your account w / your real info such as email, documents, dating sites, etc and logon to the clean profile for viewing youtube videos and films with her. She'll snoop when you step away, and if you're constantly locking your computer to prevent this when you do so she'll suspect you're hiding something.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2058976]Sanitising is a subject near and dear to me. This is the dial-it-to-11 guide when you have dating-site girls visiting and many of them are repeats. You may dial it back for bar girls and other one-time visitors.
SNIP SNIP
[/QUOTE]Geez Huts, you should hire a maid to do all of this for you. One you don't shag obviously.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2058976]Sanitising is a subject near and dear to me. This is the dial-it-to-11 guide when you have dating-site girls visiting and many of them are repeats. You may dial it back for bar girls and other one-time visitors.

[b]CR[/b]

Towels: make up and lipstick are smeared on them.
Soap and bottles: stray hair stuck on it.
Drain: hair always collects there.
Shower curtain: step in the shower and draw the curtain. Hose it down.
Bin: always keep a plastic bin liner / bag in it. Toss the entire bag, not just the contents. Look inside the bin because sometimes items are 'placed' in it under the liner.
Hairbrushes: always examine and remove all hair.
Mirror: examine for handprints and makeup.
Basin, toilet, and tub: wash.

Sit on toilet and close the door. Examine the room from the girl's viewpoint.

If you have a small rug in the CR shake it out in the tub.

[b]Bedroom[/b]

Linen: keep a change of pillow cases and sheets available. After the girl leaves swap. If this is impossible pull all sheets and shake. This will shake loose stray earrings, hair, dentures (hat tip Westie), etc. Remake bed. Examine for stains and hair. Use a stain stick for spot cleaning.

Floor: sweep. Make sure to look beside and under bed for condom wrappers, Kentucky jelly tubes, toys, ties, ribbons, whatever.

Mirror and vanity: examine for handprints and makeup, especially powered foundation. If the vanity has a chair they're will be foundation on it too.

[b]Kitchen and living room[/b]
Take all glasses, silverware, and plates and wash immediately. After drying place back in cupboard and drawers. Two glasses sitting in the drying rack is a sign you had a guest. Toss the kitchen rubbish.

Check windows for handprints. Hat tip Skogis for this tip.

"But I have regular-visitor girls over who leave personal hygiene items like shampoo, toothbrushes, and even some clothes and a pair of slippers at my place. I have another girl coming over this afternoon, and my regular will return at night."

Your mobile is your friend. Photo everything first after the regular leaves. Put her items into a bag and stow away. Replace the bin liner but do not toss. Save some of her hairs you found on the floor and on the bed. Hide away all these items. After your afternoon guest leaves clean up. Then, grab those bags you stashed earlier and replace the items where they were. Put her slippers back beside the door. Hang her items in the closet. Put her toothbrush back. Replace the sheets back to what she saw in the morning. Put the bin liner with her refuse back into the bin. Spread some of her hairs back on the floor and on the pillow case - they don't need to be exactly where they were. Change the TV channel back to one she knows you watch; if you're not an ABS-CBN viewer she ought not see that when she turns it on. Eject DVD from player.

Repeat girls who know you will look for patterns and discrepancies. If you're always untidy and then they see tidiness, they'll suspect. It's safest to be consistently tidy because you'll develop a routine and it keeps the cockroaches away.

And have some explanations ready. "Why is this tube of lube here?" I was jerking off.

Pro tip: double up on items. For example, if she knows you have a full tube of lube and three condoms, and 10 hours later you have half a tube of lube and 1 condom, you have some 'splainin to do. If you have spares stored away you avoid awkward questions.

Lastly, on your computer create a second clean user account that doesn't have admin rights. Before she comes over log off your account w / your real info such as email, documents, dating sites, etc and logon to the clean profile for viewing youtube videos and films with her. She'll snoop when you step away, and if you're constantly locking your computer to prevent this when you do so she'll suspect you're hiding something.[/QUOTE]Reminds me of the Bond movie where he sticks a hair on a door frame. Unfortunately, even if they know the game, play the game, and are in the game, they don't want it flashed in front of their faces and their noses rubbed in it. I commend you on your CSI level of caution. Much better than an eruption. LOL ;-D.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2058976]Sanitising is a subject near and dear to me. This is the dial-it-to-11 guide when you have dating-site girls visiting and many of them are repeats. You may dial it back for bar girls and other one-time visitors. - SNIP -[/QUOTE]Wow!!

OK, I might have to copy this into the notes area on my phone. But then of course I would need advice on how to keep a secret set of notes! LOL. What an amazing routine, lots of great advice here, thanks!

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2059021]Geez Huts, you should hire a maid to do all of this for you. One you don't shag obviously.[/QUOTE]I actually did so a long time ago, but they were crap at it. Poor attention to detail. Once you have your routine down it goes by quickly.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2059416]I actually did so a long time ago, but they were crap at it. Poor attention to detail. Once you have your routine down it goes by quickly.[/QUOTE]I concur, you can generally do a pretty thorough sweep inside 10 minutes and it really is worth the effort to save the headache you'll get if something untoward is discovered. Most of the girls who venture into my condo are non-p4 p and an incident like this would probably mean the end of that session and of that girl.

Just to add to the horror stories, I had a girl put a used condom wrapper under the duvet (bearing in mind we'd been above the duvet the whole time and it was still tucked in). Thankfully I managed to hide it with my hand before any damage was done.

Its been educational to read and to some extent (not in full) I do some evidence removals myself but even so it bellied up not so long ago. I admit I don't change bed covers between sessions (only if some blood). Well girl arrives and we start humping on the bed. Then she screams in pain. Then I found the previous girls ear nob inside the bed covers (the opening was the wrong way so in some mysterious ways must have fallen inside. Because I swiped and searched for hairs / items in bed between the two sessions. I had to invent some excuse as usual because the girl was sure I did other girls before she. I refused and blamed housekeeping staff (one of them must have lost it). I just stood by my explanation so long and hard so at the end we could go on banging. If she believed it or not. My bet would be "not", hehe.

Learning process: wrap bed covers inside out to see if something falls out.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2059416]I actually did so a long time ago, but they were crap at it. Poor attention to detail. Once you have your routine down it goes by quickly.[/QUOTE]There is one that you missed. Some of the pinay ladies like perfumed products. It will permeate everything. Smoke can be explained. But perfume to scented baby powder is harder. It will stay on clothing for days.

[QUOTE=Boarer;2059785]There is one that you missed. Some of the pinay ladies like perfumed products. It will permeate everything. Smoke can be explained. But perfume to scented baby powder is harder. It will stay on clothing for days.[/QUOTE]You're right. I forgot to mention that. I spray sandalwood scent on my clothes and the pillows; it conceals the floral and citrus scents women wear. You want something with a good amount of essential oils because that doesn't evaporate quickly or just use essential oils themselves. I also use incense sticks for my condo.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2060597]You're right. I forgot to mention that. I spray sandalwood scent on my clothes and the pillows; it conceals the floral and citrus scents women wear. You want something with a good amount of essential oils because that doesn't evaporate quickly or just use essential oils themselves. I also use incense sticks for my condo.[/QUOTE]Mr Hutsori, you are truly the master of evidence removals. I salute you! I guess I'm too lazy. For any girl that reaches that level of importance, I'd probably rent a nearby condo for her alone, as well as a refuge from the main pleasure palace.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2060597]You're right. I forgot to mention that. I spray sandalwood scent [/QUOTE]LOL. I think you are pulling my leg now!! I fortunately have several friends / colleagues who douse themselves with expensive perfume so it stays on you the whole day after a greeting. The floral scents are harder to explain if a lady friend does not use scented products. Regardless of the source, suspicions can be a real mood killer.

[QUOTE=Boarer;2061529]LOL. I think you are pulling my leg now!! I fortunately have several friends / colleagues who douse themselves with expensive perfume so it stays on you the whole day after a greeting. The floral scents are harder to explain if a lady friend does not use scented products. Regardless of the source, suspicions can be a real mood killer.[/QUOTE]Not at all. Crabtree and Evelyn had a very nice sandalwood cologne, but now it's just soaps and balms, so I switched to George Trumper. There are a few Crabtree and Evelyn shops in Manila such as Greenbelt 1 - there was one in Glorietta too but no longer. There's also a scent shop / perfumer near the corner Paseo de Roxas and Buendia near the immigration office. Rather than douse myself I carry a small vial of essential oil and reapply it as needed. Oils don't evaporate as quickly as cologne so just a dab here and there. You want to get the essential oils because those are natural. One of my fubus started her own scent business as a side job but later she relocated to Singapore. She mixed some lovely scents.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2061625]Not at all. Crabtree and Evelyn had a very nice sandalwood cologne, but now it's just soaps and balms, so I switched to George Trumper. There are a few Crabtree and Evelyn shops in Manila such as Greenbelt 1 - there was one in Glorietta too but no longer. There's also a scent shop / perfumer near the corner Paseo de Roxas and Buendia near the immigration office. Rather than douse myself I carry a small vial of essential oil and reapply it as needed. Oils don't evaporate as quickly as cologne so just a dab here and there. You want to get the essential oils because those are natural. One of my fubus started her own scent business as a side job but later she relocated to Singapore. She mixed some lovely scents.[/QUOTE]Perfume versus Eau de Toilet versus Cologne. Correct. If you are looking for essential oils, the Internet prices are much better if you can get to a place with cheaper or free shipping. A big bottle lasts a long time when used in a diffuser or vaporizer. I am not sure the differences but the ones I get appears to work at fraction of the retail store prices.

FWIW, still working of getting cheap massage oils through one of my massage places. Oil is not bad at US10 for like 20 FL oz. Just add essential oil to make it an expensive oil or takes one back to another place and time.

Good post of your Crime Scene Sanitizing advice! ;-D

Just a reminder: Sometimes your luggage is opened (security purposes) after you check in for your flight. They usually leave a calling-card.

[QUOTE=MrWoolyBooly;2060800]Mr Hutsori, you are truly the master of evidence removals. I salute you! I guess I'm too lazy. For any girl that reaches that level of importance, I'd probably rent a nearby condo for her alone, as well as a refuge from the main pleasure palace.[/QUOTE]Last weekend < I did a CSI type check of my condo. The girl who was visiting had previously found evidence of my playing, courtesy of the security guard with a big mouth, and made a big deal for 15 minutes then got into bed and we had the best night ever.

So this time I cleaned every hair, removed everything I could (only because I like this girl). We go out drinking, get back to the apartment, clothes fall off and we get to the darkened bedroom. She says " can I turn the light on" and I said sure confident in my cleaning actions. Her eyes were like laser beams, they shot to the pillow and she triumphantly holds up two hairs and says " these arent mine ".

How she saw them is beyond me as I had shakedn those pillows for minutes.

She pouted at the door for 20 minute semi undressed, threatening to go home. ID already met one girl that day so I was calm. Eventually she got back into bed and we both enjoyed.

I had a visitor today and insisted she clean most of her own hair up from the bed, the bathroom and swept the floor. She was happy to comply. No idea whos hair she swept up but there was lots. LOL.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2070205]I had a visitor today and insisted she clean most of her own hair up from the bed, the bathroom and swept the floor. [/QUOTE]Brilliant!

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2070205]Last weekend < I did a CSI type check of my condo. The girl who was visiting had previously found evidence of my playing, courtesy of the security guard with a big mouth, and made a big deal for 15 minutes then got into bed and we had the best night ever.
.[/QUOTE]I know your pain. Firstly it is so convenient and relaxing for us to entertain our multiple guess in the convenience of our apartment. When my GF returns thought I am just so nervous.

Last few times I have been going to a short time hotel. For the p500 investment it is just so good later. The girl that comes to the short time doesn't seem to be too interested as it seems to be a normal thing.

I did read in another thread about saying that I had an in-room massage. Might explore that idea.

BD.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2070320]Dude, seriously. You're entitled to your opinion but just being a contrarian for the sake of it is dull.

Going forward I'll reserve the right to call out anyone if I feel they're abusing other people's generosity with no intention of reciprocity. I do that in my day to day life, does that mean I'm too involved there too?[/QUOTE]I am disappointed that you perceive the issue in terms of contrariness for its own sake. Allow me to give greater scope to the problem. A few ISG members who are frequent posters on the Philippine forum are harassing newcomers. Here are some of the methods they employ:

(1) Investigating newcomers to adjudge if their posts merit reply.

(2) Promulgating rules which a newcomer needs to follow in order to be worthy of a response.

(3) Insisting that a newcomer pay $20 so that he can receive a PM response to an inquiry even when that inquiry does not involve information of a confidential nature.

(4) Directing other members not respond to an inquiry made by a newcomer.

(5) Not making allowances for a newcomer's cultural differences and shortcomings in English proficiency.

(6) Ridiculing newcomers and making ISG hostile to newcomers.

A couple of these ISG members have upwards of 5,000 posts. Because of this, perhaps they are deluded into believing that they should be accorded an elevated status or that they have earned proprietary rights. I am not here to dispel their delusions but merely to ask that they stop persecuting newcomers.

Why do some people bully those that they can? Who knows? But deep down in some dark recess of personality there is fear and insecurity where Mommy's love was unable illuminate.

You mentioned that you expect something in return for help. I don't believe that is true about you. When a person stops you in the street and asks you for directions or say for a recommendation for a favorite restaurant in your neighborhood, you don't ask them for something in return. You don't refuse them and tell them to get a smartphone with GPS. (In fact I write reviews for Yelp and Trip Advisor without any expectation that those reading my reviews will ever make a review of their own.) Of course not. You want to be helpful and I think that is the kind of spirit we should have here on the ISG.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2072286]I am disappointed that you perceive the issue in terms of contrariness for its own sake. Allow me to give greater scope to the problem. A few ISG members who are frequent posters on the Philippine forum are harassing newcomers. Here are some of the methods they employ:

(1) Investigating newcomers to adjudge if their posts merit reply.

(3) Insisting that a newcomer pay $20 so that he can receive a PM response to an inquiry even when that inquiry does not involve information of a confidential nature.

[/QUOTE]Greetings Mr. Pompetus,

May I point out objections to the above two points? Nobody is obligated to reply, with or without reason, or whether the reason is persuasive to others or not. Similarly, anyone can chose whether they prefer to respond publicly or via PM, with or without a reason that any others find persuasive. If both parties agree on method, communication occurs. Otherwise, no harm no foul.

I do agree with your general idea that civility, in particular to the vast majority of people whose first language is not English, would benefit all.

Regards,

WB.

Pompetus,

Concur. The number of posts is not necessarily related to one's travel experience. However, some newcomers could read more first and then ask intelligent questions. As for the $20 geez if they can't afford $20 how they afford to travel? It is worth the annual subscription just for the PMs with other members. Just my .02.

[QUOTE=DCups;2072325]As for the $20 geez if they can't afford $20 how they afford to travel?[/QUOTE]True, and if $20 is a stretch maybe they should be posting in a page "Bargains found under bridges over the Pasig River". Disclaimer: I have no idea where the cheapest services are offered. No disrespect intended to residents under said bridges.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2065039]Just a reminder: Sometimes your luggage is opened (security purposes) after you check in for your flight. They usually leave a calling-card.[/QUOTE]In the past, depending on the airport, I would be informed by gate staff if anything was to be removed for security reasons, like a brand new tube of marine sealant for scuba or a can of Lysol. Sometimes, small expensive items will just go missing. A spare iPhone disappeared once. I now pack more carefully and hand carry the small expensive stuff if I can. The funny thing is most of the rummaging is on the US domestic connections when inbound. I know because I pick up my suitcase before customs and I can see they were untouched.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2072286]I am disappointed that you perceive the issue in terms of contrariness for its own sake. Allow me to give greater scope to the problem. A few ISG members who are frequent posters on the Philippine forum are harassing newcomers. Here are some of the methods they employ:

(1) Investigating newcomers to adjudge if their posts merit reply.

(2) Promulgating rules which a newcomer needs to follow in order to be worthy of a response.

(3) Insisting that a newcomer pay $20 so that he can receive a PM response to an inquiry even when that inquiry does not involve information of a confidential nature.

(4) Directing other members not respond to an inquiry made by a newcomer.

(5) Not making allowances for a newcomer's cultural differences and shortcomings in English proficiency.

(6) Ridiculing newcomers and making ISG hostile to newcomers.

A couple of these ISG members have upwards of 5,000 posts. Because of this, perhaps they are deluded into believing that they should be accorded an elevated status or that they have earned proprietary rights. I am not here to dispel their delusions but merely to ask that they stop persecuting newcomers.

Why do some people bully those that they can? Who knows? But deep down in some dark recess of personality there is fear and insecurity where Mommy's love was unable illuminate.

You mentioned that you expect something in return for help. I don't believe that is true about you. When a person stops you in the street and asks you for directions or say for a recommendation for a favorite restaurant in your neighborhood, you don't ask them for something in return. You don't refuse them and tell them to get a smartphone with GPS. (In fact I write reviews for Yelp and Trip Advisor without any expectation that those reading my reviews will ever make a review of their own.) Of course not. You want to be helpful and I think that is the kind of spirit we should have here on the ISG.[/QUOTE]And of course some of us, perhaps those with posts in the 1,000's could of course say is it anyones business (yours or mine or otherwise) how we treat each other here. Seniority has its privileges. ? Sorry mate, but your post, whilst eloquent and polite seems to me to be a waste of time and bandwidth.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2065039]Just a reminder: Sometimes your luggage is opened (security purposes) after you check in for your flight. They usually leave a calling-card.[/QUOTE]Fellow ISG guy,

PM'd me that he received an email to call back at Manila Airport and pick up a baggage left behind.

He did not answer email or return to airport cause he did not leave any bag behind at the airport.

He suspected it might be a new airport scam, wherein you return, and Airport personnel put the heat on you re "contents of bag" , sort of thing.

Possibility. Take care.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2072286]...Snipped....
A few ISG members who are frequent posters on the Philippine forum are [b]harassing[/b] newcomers. Here are some of the methods they employ:

(1) [b]Investigating[/b]
(2) [b]Promulgating rules [/b]
(3) [b]Insisting [/b]
(4)[b]Directing[/b]
(6) [b]Ridiculing[/b] newcomers and [b]making ISG hostile[/b] to newcomers.

they are [b]deluded[/b] ....snip.... an [b]elevated status[/b] ...... snip...... [b]persecuting newcomers[/b].

Why do some people [b]bully[/b] those that they can? [/QUOTE]Pompetus, you are entitled to your own opinion, like anyone else. But methinks you are way over the top with your hyperbolic language (I have boldened the type as examples). Yes some members, not necessarily senior members, post opinions that may get up your nose and may to you seem excessive. We all have our own gripes about styles and patterns of behaviour. But, if I may coin a phrase, swallow it and move on!

I for one get a little bit pissed off with some members using unfamiliar abbreviations forcing me to move to the Abbrebiations page to find out what the hell they are talking about. Sometimes it is easier to say "read the forum" than wondering what RTFF means!

Some of us advocate that the Photo Gallery should be for photos and not for chit chat about photos and other topics. That is not "promulgating rules". That is urging common sense when there is also an adjacent Photo Gallery Chit Chat Forum available for comment. The Philippines Photo Forum shows how successful this self policing is. Of all the ISG photo forums it has the most photos (16,836) associated with the most postings (8796) at a strike rate of almost 2 photos to every posting. Well done guys!

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2072436]Sorry mate, but your post, whilst eloquent and polite seems to me to be a waste of time and bandwidth.[/QUOTE]I agree FreebieFan.

Quote.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Monday suspended the accreditation and operations of Uber System Inc. (Uber) for one month.

In its advisory, the LTFRB said the board meted out the penalty of one-month suspension "on the accreditation of Uber System, Inc. (Uber) and was ordered to cease and desist its operations of their online booking application during the period of suspension. ".

LTFRB also recommended that Uber extend financial assistance to affected peer-operators during the one-month suspension "as an expression of good faith", noting that the operators "would not have suffered the current predicament were it not for the predatory actions of respondent user. ".

The suspension takes effect immediately.

Copies of the suspension were furnished to enforcers of the LTFRB, Land Transportation Office, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group.

In a statement, Uber Philippines said they have received the order and is currently studying it.

"Uber received an order around 6 pm tonight (August 14) to completely stop operations. We are studying the order at the moment. We will update our riders and drivers as soon as we can," the company said.

Uber and rival Grab are in dispute with the LTFRB over the scope of regulation on ride-sharing services, sparking separate investigations by the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The LTFRB earlier fined Uber and Grab P5 million each, accusing the companies of operating some 50,000 vehicles without proper permits.

[URL]http://news.abs-cbn.com/business/08/14/17/ltfrb-suspends-uber-operations-for-one-month[/URL]

Clearly to me there is some corruption involved to maintain status quo by keeping Uber and Grab out of the market. The Uber rep made a great case to the board without trashing anyone. Looks like retaliation to me and last ditch effort to squash Uber.

I am speculating that the Filipinos had a taste of reputable riding with Uber and Grab that they will not stand for this suspension, especially if it will make them wait in long lines again for unreputable taxis again.

There is only one reason for the success of Uber and Grab and that is the unsavory crooked market created by the existing taxis.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2072672]Clearly to me there is some corruption involved to maintain status quo by keeping Uber and Grab out of the market. The Uber rep made a great case to the board without trashing anyone. Looks like retaliation to me and last ditch effort to squash Uber.

I am speculating that the Filipinos had a taste of reputable riding with Uber and Grab that they will not stand for this suspension, especially if it will make them wait in long lines again for unreputable taxis again.

There is only one reason for the success of Uber and Grab and that is the unsavory crooked market created by the existing taxis.[/QUOTE]I'll believe it's all a case of incumbents resisting new entrants who perhaps don't apply enough grease to the ride skids until I see evidence to the contrary. Regardless of the cause, aren't there one or more apps in the Philippines that summon taxis for backup, however distasteful? Is that Grab or some other app?

[QUOTE=MrWoolyBooly;2072710]I'll believe it's all a case of incumbents resisting new entrants who perhaps don't apply enough grease to the ride skids until I see evidence to the contrary. Regardless of the cause, aren't there one or more apps in the Philippines that summon taxis for backup, however distasteful? Is that Grab or some other app?[/QUOTE]There is Grab but they are after Grab too.

Dear all,

Although I am a member for several years, I took notice of the price thread today only.

[URL]http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1083-Prices[/URL]

The forum is full of posts complaining about increasing prices and guys asking for price information in paticular threads.

The price thread being a general one could be a very useful tool for all of us, so I would like to encourage my fellow mongers to put some recent info there. IMO it could be done in a brief way (widely practiced already) mentioning:

Country.

City.

Type of establishment.

ST / LT.

Looks of the lady X /10.

Performance X /10.

Price.

Link to your post.

Sorry for cross posting, happy mongering!

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1416166]Or, he could pay up the $20 membership fee. His remarkable penmanship over 5 years on the board includes a whopping 15 posts, several about Dumagette (years ago) , and mostly questions since. Am suggesting Pompetus join, as the exchange of quality information is for paid members to discuss among themselves.[/QUOTE]This is an example of the treatment that newcomers receive from so-called experts. It is sarcastic. It is unwelcoming and discourages newcomers from continuing further. (Not me because I earned my bones when this honoree was still trying to diddle cheerleaders.) This poster suggests that you need to pay in order to be a senior member of ISG. Not true. You don't have to pay a farthing. Additionally, this poster says that quality information is the exclusive domain of paid-for members to share among themselves. That all others are unwelcome to it until they pay. Here is more incorrect and misleading information and the arrogant tone further alienates the newcomer.

ISG is not a club for a few who have lost the ability to diversify their interests and then use ISG to play out their Weltschmerz. Let's come together and allow newcomers to ask their questions, however amateurish they may seem. Answer them if you want and if you don't want, well then don't. But let's not chase them away by being rude and wrong.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2074270]This is an example of the treatment that newcomers receive from so-called experts. It is sarcastic. It is unwelcoming and discourages newcomers from continuing further. (Not me because I earned my bones when this honoree was still trying to diddle cheerleaders.) This poster suggests that you need to pay in order to be a senior member of ISG. Not true. You don't have to pay a farthing. Additionally, this poster says that quality information is the exclusive domain of paid-for members to share among themselves. That all others are unwelcome to it until they pay. Here is more incorrect and misleading information and the arrogant tone further alienates the newcomer.

ISG is not a club for a few who have lost the ability to diversify their interests and then use ISG to play out their Weltschmerz. Let's come together and allow newcomers to ask their questions, however amateurish they may seem. Answer them if you want and if you don't want, well then don't. But let's not chase them away by being rude and wrong.[/QUOTE]My golly Sir you really do have a bee in your bonnet about how newcomers are greeted here. Suggestion. Start your own ISG clone whereby you can be the administrator, moderator and owner, and kick off all who fail to live up to your won high standards of welcoming.

You tell others they should diversify, but it would appear that you are on a single one track approach. Pots and kettles and black?

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2074270]This is an example of the treatment that newcomers receive from so-called experts. It is sarcastic. It is unwelcoming and discourages newcomers from continuing further. (Not me because I earned my bones when this honoree was still trying to diddle cheerleaders.) This poster suggests that you need to pay in order to be a senior member of ISG. Not true. You don't have to pay a farthing. Additionally, this poster says that quality information is the exclusive domain of paid-for members to share among themselves. That all others are unwelcome to it until they pay. Here is more incorrect and misleading information and the arrogant tone further alienates the newcomer.

ISG is not a club for a few who have lost the ability to diversify their interests and then use ISG to play out their Weltschmerz. Let's come together and allow newcomers to ask their questions, however amateurish they may seem. Answer them if you want and if you don't want, well then don't. But let's not chase them away by being rude and wrong.[/QUOTE]You can't use the PM facility to share information such as phone numbers etc unless you have paid the subscription as a newbie – that is fact.

You can be a senior member on ISG by asking 25 questions (or is it 50 now I forget) – fact.

I was advised by a senior member many years ago that the FR history of newbies especially is important as it show if they can and have or will contribute – sensible advice as many promise but never deliver (the UAE forum is full of the promising newbies who have asked question over many years but somehow never followed up with a FR).

Also by checking the FR history you can a get a 'feel' for the person in some ways I was advised so you can sometimes weed out real time wasters, lurkers etc who could spoil your contact list badly or worse (this has happened to a few friends and me to a degree in the past despite my generosity).

I welcome people to contribute but will call them out when they post question after question that clearly shows no intent on sharing whatever they find after they receive – and maybe ruin a good 'relationship contact' also – why run the risk? You have spent time and effort and someone could easily ruin things. It is a risk you take and decide and'est pas?

If you feel happy sharing all the information all the time please do as no one stops you.

Westie, FF and others contribute a lot and do help many – I do also and mainly via PM (especially on the UAE thread nowadays due to LE etc). But we choose when and how and who due to our own in-built suspicions or whatever you call it. I have been burned by sharing in the past and now am more wary and do some back check if needed. That is me.

And any newbie should at least RTFF first – you would agree? This is what Westie and FF are alluding to. And me also plus countless others.

Example, my first time in the Philippines I did a big RTFF, I had lots of information of where to stay, go and prices etc. I then contacted a senior member and asked specific info via PM that he gladly shared (plus other advise not asked) as I had done my homework. Am grateful and I learnt from that experience and now I try to keep the same guidelines myself.

Another example: Loso69 (who was / is a prolific contributor on the PRC forums) came to Abu Dhabi for the first time and we met up. Why? Because he RTFF and sent me a lot of questions of clarification via PM (which showed me he had RTFF before) so I was happy to advise etc. I still do this but I draw the line at times of newbies with no intention of even the basic RTFF.

We are all different minded on this Pomp but I have not seen you helping much but you do criticise those who help but then call out some lazy managers who ask things like "where should I go to find a massage in Manila?" or "where do I go to find girls in Makati" etc.

My tuppence worth.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2074270]It is sarcastic. It is unwelcoming and discourages newcomers from continuing further. (Not me because I earned my bones when this honoree was still trying to diddle cheerleaders.) This poster suggests that you need to pay in order to be a senior member of ISG. Not true. You don't have to pay a farthing. Additionally, this poster says that quality information is the exclusive domain of paid-for members to share among themselves. That all others are unwelcome to it until they pay. Here is more incorrect and misleading information and the arrogant tone further alienates the newcomer.[/QUOTE]If that sounded rude, its not because he's asking a question. Its because he's taking without giving back. Its a pattern without newbs. Your opinion that we should respond to newbs on the open board is obviously not shared by all (see below).

Apology. I suggested that the info should be shared with paying members, and that might have been wrong. I assumed that only paying members had PM function. I should have suggested that info be shared with PM-able members. Anyone contacting me in PM has my support.

The above is my opinion. Its worth what you paid for it. Anyone can disagree.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2074297]My golly Sir you really do have a bee in your bonnet about how newcomers are greeted here. Suggestion. Start your own ISG clone whereby you can be the administrator, moderator and owner, and kick off all who fail to live up to your won high standards of welcoming.

You tell others they should diversify, but it would appear that you are on a single one track approach. Pots and kettles and black?[/QUOTE]Pomp has given a lot of good info to the board. He's not the only one who feels this way. I get the occasional PM from someone expressing a similar view (once every year or two). Its roughly equivalent to those gents who think the PG should be open to anyone. Pomp, probably we just will have to agree to disagree.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2074470] If that sounded rude, its not because he's asking a question. Its because he's taking without giving back. [/QUOTE]You have unintentionally created irony. The 'he' that you are referring to here is me. I had asked a question back in 2013. At that time your investigation of me revealed I had made several (comprehensive and informative posts) on Dumaguete (and Cebu which you overlooked). Yet in your estimation you adjudged that this was an insufficient basis to warrant a reply to the inquiry that I made. You got gall. You did a half-ass review of my posts and then in a condescending and insulting tone instructed me as to your set of ISG rules which incidentally were dead wrong as to how senior status is attained.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2074470] Its a pattern without newbs. [/QUOTE]You are stumbling on a conundrum. How can you expect a newcomer to make a contribution when they are just beginning? You want a newb to contribute before they can ask a question. But how can they give information if they have no information to give because they are new?

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2074470]I should have suggested that info be shared with PM-able members. [/QUOTE]It is not necessary. Regular members are able to make contributions and ask questions on the forum without any restrictions. Your attempts to enforce your pseudo-rules are interfering with the peaceful enjoyment of the forum. Leave people alone.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2074470] Your opinion that we should respond to newbs on the open board is obviously not shared by all (see below). [/QUOTE]You should re-read the person that you are quoting. That person said nothing about not sharing with newbs on the open board. Moreover, the forum administrators said nothing of it and yet we see frequent evidence of them policing the forum of inappropriate posts but never have they objected to anyone responding to newbs on the forum. The good news for you is that you don't have to police the forum: someone else is doing it. That frees up your time to develop other interests. You should work against your instinct to exclude people and learn to be inclusive. I live on the west coast of my country and that is how we are here. I can't answer for how they are on the west coast of your country.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2074470] The above is my opinion. [/QUOTE]Of course it is your opinion. I know that you wouldn't suppose to give someone else's opinion. That is a fatuous comment.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2080178]You have unintentionally created irony. The 'he' that you are referring to here is me. I had asked a question back in 2013. At that time your investigation of me revealed I had made several (comprehensive and informative posts) on Dumaguete (and Cebu which you overlooked). Yet in your estimation you adjudged that this was an insufficient basis to warrant a reply to the inquiry that I made. You got gall. You did a half-ass review of my posts and then in a condescending and insulting tone instructed me as to your set of ISG rules which incidentally were dead wrong as to how senior status is attained.

You are stumbling on a conundrum. How can you expect a newcomer to make a contribution when they are just beginning? You want a newb to contribute before they can ask a question. But how can they give information if they have no information to give because they are new?

It is not necessary. Regular members are able to make contributions and ask questions on the forum without any restrictions. Your attempts to enforce your pseudo-rules are interfering with the peaceful enjoyment of the forum. Leave people alone.

You should re-read the person that you are quoting. That person said nothing about not sharing with newbs on the open board. Moreover, the forum administrators said nothing of it and yet we see frequent evidence of them policing the forum of inappropriate posts but never have they objected to anyone responding to newbs on the forum. The good news for you is that you don't have to police the forum: someone else is doing it. That frees up your time to develop other interests. You should work against your instinct to exclude people and learn to be inclusive. I live on the west coast of my country and that is how we are here. I can't answer for how they are on the west coast of your country.

Of course it is your opinion. I know that you wouldn't suppose to give someone else's opinion. That is a fatuous comment.[/QUOTE]Let it go, man. You have your view, others have a divergent view. Thats how life works. You are like a dog with a bone at the moment. Is your life really worth spending 15 minutes on trying to refute another persons opinions which differs from yours. LET. IT. GO.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2080178]You are stumbling on a conundrum. How can you expect a newcomer to make a contribution when they are just beginning? You want a newb to contribute before they can ask a question. But how can they give information if they have no information to give because they are new?

It is not necessary. Regular members are able to make contributions and ask questions on the forum without any restrictions. Your attempts to enforce your pseudo-rules are interfering with the peaceful enjoyment of the forum. Leave people alone..[/QUOTE]You expect them once they have RTFF and done some homework and then ask clarification points as some do to me via email. I did when I first joined and those 'rules' are what I expect but are mine and based on what I read all over the board many others.

The newbies who post "where is that location" for example (see UAE AMPS) get nothing as the location is hinted in numerous FRs and if you RTFF you will find. The location is never given because the LE watch that board a lot so can trace it also. The ones who ask this invariably have no PM.

Similarly "please send me her digits" or "where is the best place to find a girl in Manila" or "does the hotel allow a second guest" can all be found by first RTFF and then asking specific questions to clarify. Again many who ask either have no PM facility or have a long history of asking questions with promises to contribute but never do.

Worse it some screws it up for seniors who do help and are kind by showing the girl ISG etc and causing grief etc (ask me, ask Joe K in UAE as 2 good examples).

So we welcome newbies Pomp as long as they FR and contribute and show a sign of RTFF before asking an inane question that is easily answered buy a 1 minute RTFF, but those asking those questions above with no history of contributing is like playing Russian roulette with your contact list at times IMHO so many don't like that.

If you want to share all with anyone not knowing if LE or worse, go ahead no one stops you but we all have our own guidelines and these differ enormously.

[blue][Deleted by Admin][/blue]

BTW Westie does share a lot but you won't see it as this is via PM.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2080178]

How can you expect a newcomer to make a contribution when they are just beginning? You want a newb to contribute before they can ask a question. But how can they give information if they have no information to give because they are new?[/QUOTE]The conundrum really is how did this site ever get going if no one had any reviews to read first?

There are 11,169 posts in this forum, over 50,000 related to Manila and the surround areas. Have we all been wasting our time if people just ask questions instead of researching for themselves? Why post reviews at all in this case, just make the site one big chat room.

Re the senior members vs newbies.

This occurs with surprising regularity on many different forums, I was active on the Dubai one and it chewed up a lot of bandwidth. I have seen it on other ones when I have been researching a new location. Not only ISG but other mongering and even non-mongering forums.

What the newbies don't realize is that the previous newbies have already asked the exact same questions and the information that they seek has been posted numerous times.

For the newbies, first, read the FAQ on any forum. You will get a lot of your answers there. For example here you need to pay the $20 or make enough posts to be a senior member to get PM ability. Then you don't have to ask in your first post "How can I PM someone".

Then please read the forum back a couple of months or at least 4 or 5 pages of posts (whichever is more posts). You will get a very good idea of the local scene from that. You will most likely get your questions answered in a lot less time than posting it and waiting for a reply. If once you have read back a little in the forum, you still have a question then you can ask an intelligent one i.e. Not where can I get laid, but something along the lines of I am trying to decide on bar A or bar B, which do you recommend for a first-time visitor? I am looking more for "XXX" than "YYY".

Remember in any new endeavor, you usually have to pay your dues somehow; here it is in making good reports about your past places. Even if you have never been to the Philippines, you can always post about other places you have been and by making a contribution there you will be accepted here. I started in the Dubai forum because I was there a lot and when I shifted to the Philippines, my history and contribution to the collective was recognized.

Also realize that the guys with the huge post counts are generally well regarded here and respected for their contributions, by insulting them you are not enduring yourself to anyone else here and are unlikely to get the information you are looking for.

Once you have paid your dues by making a contribution and even by asking intelligent questions, never answered before here, you will find that acceptance is surprisingly fast and total.

And for the senior members, why even reply to dumb newbie posts? Just ignore them and hope that they will get the hint instead of wasting bandwidth on replying to them except for perhaps "RTFF".

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2080441]
And for the senior members, why even reply to dumb newbie posts? Just ignore them and hope that they will get the hint instead of wasting bandwidth on replying to them except for perhaps "RTFF".[/QUOTE]This will be my final post on the subject. I reply (not always sarcastically) because some newbs genuinely don't understand the process and need that education (to RTFF, then contribute after). Some do and are happy to take, take, take with no wish to contribute back.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2080178]You are stumbling on a conundrum. How can you expect a newcomer to make a contribution when they are just beginning? You want a newb to contribute before they can ask a question. But how can they give information if they have no information to give because they are new?
[/QUOTE]This is a good observation, a fair question, but also misses something. I addressed this conundrum a few years ago, and I stated newbs should certainly ask questions. But there are good questions and bad ones. "Where is the best place to find the girl?" is a poor question.

If you handed a new employee an orientation manual, told them to read it, and he came back and simply said "I don't understand it" or asked a question that's clearly covered in the handbook this would cause concern if not frustration. The way around this is for a newb to indicate that he has RTFF, [i]analysed what was presented[/i], and needs clarification.

"Hi, I read WC's comment (link/quote) and Pomp's reply that contradicts it (link/quote). Hut added this (link/quote). I'm wondering, yada yada yada."

This example is not the only way, but it at least demonstrates the person put in the effort. I'm happy to reward effort.

Lastly, our newbs come in a variety of flavours. There's a first comment guy who joined 15 minutes ago. OK, he's excited and eager, and I think most of us treat that type of person gently. Then there are the guys with 20 or so comments, almost all of them questions, asked over a period of years in several different forums. And they rarely, if ever, give back. This is a demonstrated pattern of selfishness. The derision they receive is well deserved; they earned it.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;20806937]

Lastly, our newbs come in a variety of flavours. There's a first comment guy who joined 15 minutes ago. OK, he's excited and eager, and I think most of us treat that type of person gently. [/QUOTE]Or there's the guy who just posted his first message over in the Makati thread who literally states he doesn't have time to search for girls because he's too busy and wants the numbers and coordinates of quality girls.

He's awesome.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2080745]Or there's the guy who just posted his first message over in the Makati thread who literally states he doesn't have time to search for girls because he's too busy and wants the numbers and coordinates of quality girls.

He's awesome.[/QUOTE]I've made similar observations. Several posts in other forums where the poster is "too busy" to look for himself.

Then there is the newbies who ask vague questions. So you ask for some clarification so perhaps you can help them, but you never hear from them again. Why do they ask in the first place?

Or the newbies who ask a question for which the answer is already the most recent prior post in the thread.

Sometimes I wonder why I bother.

Just want to thank all the members for the amazing contributions made to this forum over the years. I have had two visits to the Phils (mostly metro manila) in the past few years and my experience was made simply because I took the time to do some research in this forum before getting on a plane. I appreciate that there are differing points of view and differing levels of frustration with Newbs who ask and don't give and in that vein I have only lurked for some time here. All of my questions were answered in general by reading and using the search tools to find information on massage places, freelancers, pros, the whole shebang (pun intended). I never felt a need to register (still haven't paid but I will figure out how to get that by without alerting the SO) to ask for specifics by PM because the Phils are a target rich environment. If I can get my needs taken care of (I am overweight, grey and not terribly attractive) anyone can do it with a little effort and build on the information here with minimal research.

My contribution: WeChat is king (perhaps social media generally) I tried several of the dating sites. Pinalove, DIA E. G. - and its way too hard to wade through the fakes. The most efficient approach for me was simply to look around on WeChat (I don't know if Line has similar search abilities) and find a willing lass. I never did any FakeGPS pre-trip work, just start looking around when I got to the hotel. Typically I would connect with a massage provider advertising a massage in my hotel room. 2 hours, 800 PHP was pretty standard. They come and give massage, you may need to negotiate a bit to make sure he is included but typically it was and both the massage and ending were excellent for me in all cases. Most ladies were tagalog speakers with basic English skill but they could take direction and speed up or slow down on request. Then, sometimes they are upfront with upselling more services at typical Phils prices (but without a barfine), or, depending on the chemistry, you can move towards mutual massage, or simply get them to sit on your lap for a little hugging afterwards and see where that goes. On more than one occasion things did go in fact and that is how I became aware that BB is somewhat standard expectation in the Phils. If you want to go covered you need to ask or at least take the initiative because the lady won't interrupt the seduction on her own. In addition to the massage offers you will receive hits on WeChat (even with a plain vanilla profile) from ladies wanting to be friends. A little coffee for meet and greet and things can progress from there. I am always up front in weeding out the LBs by asking if they are a "woman from birth". Some express surprise at the question but I think they are faking the surprise since the LB culture is so open. Learned to do this after buying a nice dinner for a beautiful woman and figuring out that she was a he before dessert. I'm guessing the other patrons in the bar were all snickering behind my back and well aware of what was going on as I got one more newbie lesson checked off. My return visit to the Phils was also greatly enhanced by putting contacts made on the first visit to work in connecting me with their friends. Just ask, any girl in the game will try to keep you happy by sharing you with her friends.

My best experience of all was a girl I met through wechat just looking to meet up, a bit of chatting and we met for dinner and she came back to the room and literally kept me up all night, hadn't had sex. Like. That. Ever. Before. Didn't even bother trying to meet with any others after that one, filled my last three nights there and blew my mind. All the best things I have read here about pinay were confirmed. She became my GF basically and told me I'd get tampo'd if I saw anyone else. The sex was so amazing that it totally wasn't a problem. The problem is, I can't stop thinking about her.

Again thanks to all who have educated me. I won't return to the Phils until next summer and so not likely to have more to contribute until then.

[QUOTE=Zoltan123;2081266]My best experience of all was a girl I met through wechat just looking to meet up, a bit of chatting and we met for dinner and she came back to the room and literally kept me up all night, hadn't had sex. Like. That. Ever. Before. Didn't even bother trying to meet with any others after that one, filled my last three nights there and blew my mind. All the best things I have read here about pinay were confirmed. She became my GF basically and told me I'd get tampo'd if I saw anyone else. The sex was so amazing that it totally wasn't a problem. The problem is, I can't stop thinking about her.
[/QUOTE]Yessssssssss!

Zoltan, great first effort. Newbs take note.

[QUOTE=Zoltan123;2081266]Just want to thank all the members for the amazing contributions made to this forum over the years. I have had two visits to the Phils (mostly metro manila) in the past few years and my experience was made simply because I took the time to do some research in this forum before getting on a plane. [/QUOTE]Enjoyable read, great report.

[QUOTE=Zoltan123;2081266] I never did any FakeGPS pre-trip work, .[/QUOTE]Anyone can guide me how to get Fake GPS and wechat to work?

Thanks.

Well I'm here on my (now) annual trip to the Philippines and I have to say I've got mixed feelings on this trip.

I stay in Makati, for me Ermita is just too dirty and LA cafe isn't for me. I've yet to see anyone over a 6 there, mainly old, ugly, desperate and way too many miles on the clock. Love the fact there's now a smoking ban in the Philippines. But annoyed by the fact on my quick visit to LA Cafe to see if things have changed (they haven't) the smoking ban isn't being adhered to there. So I'd advise anyone in there 20's /30's to give it a miss completely.

Haven't been to EDSA on this trip but from what I hear it's over priced. Problem is, everywhere seems to be now! The inflation of prices is absurd. Filipinos typically make 500 p a day and guys are throwing away money giving 4000 or more, to the point the value of money is now lost here. I'm sorry but I stare at 1500 and won't pay more than 3000, which means the bar fines are out of my reach. Browsing through P Burgos, I haven't really found any that are even worth the 3000! I've seen a couple of cute girls here and there, and they were almost always with a Korean, so I guess I must arrive too late.

My tactic is to swap numbers and meet afterwards, the only one which I would have paid 3 k for I did this with, and ended up sleeping with her without money being exchanged. I also got a free lay from a girl on we chat who was offended at any offer of money and only wanted to have sex with a foreign guy as she was horny and had never been with one. The rest were through WeChat and I haven't paid more than 1500.

I think what's really annoyed me about this trip is the value of a foreigner seems to be decreasing at an even faster rate. I'm young and good looking, and that's helped me keep the prices low and get the free lays somewhat. But even from a year ago things have changed. Philippines is becoming more like Thailand, stupid guys paying over the odds for terrible service. I won't be a party to that.

Fact is this, you either need to come here with a lot of money to blow if you want the highest quality of women, or you need to spend a significant amount of time living here to find a stunner to be your woman. Frustratingly as well, having youth on my side with good looks makes normal Filipino girls become even more shy than they usually are, blushing, can't hold my gaze, calling me 'guapo' without the exchange of numbers. I really wouldn't mind living out here to perfect my game and pick up some stunners, but when you're here for 3 weeks or so, you're stuck with these outrageous 3900 bar fines and a 3 k tip! Everyone needs to start low balling and flat out refusing to pay these prices. You're only going to drive them up to be in line with western prices, in which case you may as well stay at home.

You can get some seriously good looking Filipino girls. But on average they are far from attractive. It's not like Brazil for example where 1 in 3 are jaw dropping.

Unfortunately I feel as though this train can no longer be stopped, so unless I have some serious cash, or serious time to invest in the Philippines I won't be back for a while.

Don't even get me started on Angeles. WTF happened.

[QUOTE=Zoltan123;2081266] Didn't even bother trying to meet with any others after that one, filled my last three nights there and blew my mind. All the best things I have read here about pinay were confirmed. She became my GF basically and told me I'd get tampo'd if I saw anyone else. The sex was so amazing that it totally wasn't a problem. The problem is, I can't stop thinking about her.
.[/QUOTE]That is exactly what the pinay is famous for. It doesn't happen with every girl you meet. In your case you met a few girls over a few days, worked your way through the duds and dudes. And then struck pinay gold.

That's a valuable lesson in itself. It takes a little research and a few mishits to get to the good ones.

For the ladyboy question, a real girl answer is always something like "lols No" where as a LB will answer, "Why?" "Why do you judge people?

If it helps ease your pain, your temporary GF has probably moved on.

BD.

I read it on this forum. Close your eyes and just listen to the voice. Is the voice female or male?

[QUOTE=LiveLaughFuck;2081560]Well I'm here on my (now) annual trip to the Philippines and I have to say I've got mixed feelings on this trip.

I stay in Makati, for me Ermita is just too dirty and LA cafe isn't for me. I've yet to see anyone over a 6 there, mainly old, ugly, desperate and way too many miles on the clock. Love the fact there's now a smoking ban in the Philippines. But annoyed by the fact on my quick visit to LA Cafe to see if things have changed (they haven't) the smoking ban isn't being adhered to there. So I'd advise anyone in there 20's /30's to give it a miss completely.

Haven't been to EDSA on this trip but from what I hear it's over priced. Problem is, everywhere seems to be now! The inflation of prices is absurd. Filipinos typically make 500 p a day and guys are throwing away money giving 4000 or more, to the point the value of money is now lost here. I'm sorry but I stare at 1500 and won't pay more than 3000, which means the bar fines are out of my reach. Browsing through P Burgos, I haven't really found any that are even worth the 3000! I've seen a couple of cute girls here and there, and they were almost always with a Korean, so I guess I must arrive too late..[/QUOTE]Great report and observations from a young monger's point of view. The toothless hags in LA Caf are not worth 500 pesos. They maybe desperate but they hold out for 2,000 to 3,000 pesos and many fellas give it to them. Each day more newbies show up willing to pay higher prices to shoot their load. So, expect the trend of lower quality for higher prices to continue. Foreigners are decreasing in value because the president of the Philippines has been telling his people that most Western visitors are trash.

Now, things have changed. Even stunningly handsome young fellas with long thick cocks now have to pay higher rates for stunners. The runaway train cannot stop. As for what happened to AC, Koreans with huge amounts of cash are taking over the bar business is what happened.

[QUOTE=Udinvegs;2081546]Anyone can guide me how to get Fake GPS and wechat to work?
Thanks.[/QUOTE]Firstly learn Chinese so you can read the Chinese documentation on BaiduLocation SDK. Then learn the Java programming language and study GPS hardware and the Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) and you will be spoofing the WeChat GPS location in no time.

Then you can become a multi-millionaire by selling the app for $1 all over the world including China (and you won't need to use weChat anymore).

You're welcome!

Ikks,

P.S. Unfortunately WeChat prevents you from reverting to an earlier version (5. X. X) to use Fake GPS like we used to be able to do.

[QUOTE=LiveLaughFuck;2081560]Well I'm here on my (now) annual trip to the Philippines and I have to say I've got mixed feelings on this trip.

I stay in Makati, for me Ermita is just too dirty and LA cafe isn't for me. I've yet to see anyone over a 6 there, mainly old, ugly, desperate and way too many miles on the clock. Love the fact there's now a smoking ban in the Philippines. But annoyed by the fact on my quick visit to LA Cafe to see if things have changed (they haven't) the smoking ban isn't being adhered to there. So I'd advise anyone in there 20's /30's to give it a miss completely.

Haven't been to EDSA on this trip but from what I hear it's over priced. Problem is, everywhere seems to be now! The inflation of prices is absurd. Filipinos typically make 500 p a day and guys are throwing away money giving 4000 or more, to the point the value of money is now lost here. I'm sorry but I stare at 1500 and won't pay more than 3000, which means the bar fines are out of my reach. Browsing through P Burgos, I haven't really found any that are even worth the 3000! I've seen a couple of cute girls here and there, and they were almost always with a Korean, so I guess I must arrive too late.

My tactic is to swap numbers and meet afterwards, the only one which I would have paid 3 k for I did this with, and ended up sleeping with her without money being exchanged. I also got a free lay from a girl on we chat who was offended at any offer of money and only wanted to have sex with a foreign guy as she was horny and had never been with one. The rest were through WeChat and I haven't paid more than 1500.

I think what's really annoyed me about this trip is the value of a foreigner seems to be decreasing at an even faster rate. I'm young and good looking, and that's helped me keep the prices low and get the free lays somewhat. But even from a year ago things have changed. Philippines is becoming more like Thailand, stupid guys paying over the odds for terrible service. I won't be a party to that.

Fact is this, you either need to come here with a lot of money to blow if you want the highest quality of women, or you need to spend a significant amount of time living here to find a stunner to be your woman. Frustratingly as well, having youth on my side with good looks makes normal Filipino girls become even more shy than they usually are, blushing, can't hold my gaze, calling me 'guapo' without the exchange of numbers. I really wouldn't mind living out here to perfect my game and pick up some stunners, but when you're here for 3 weeks or so, you're stuck with these outrageous 3900 bar fines and a 3 k tip! Everyone needs to start low balling and flat out refusing to pay these prices. You're only going to drive them up to be in line with western prices, in which case you may as well stay at home.

You can get some seriously good looking Filipino girls. But on average they are far from attractive. It's not like Brazil for example where 1 in 3 are jaw dropping.

Unfortunately I feel as though this train can no longer be stopped, so unless I have some serious cash, or serious time to invest in the Philippines I won't be back for a while.

Don't even get me started on Angeles. WTF happened.[/QUOTE]I Agree the prices are outrages and the service is lacking. The Koreans are totally changing how things are done here in AC. Western type bars are being fazed out. Bar Signs are being changes to Korean writing Girls are being offered only to Koreans. Bars are only catering to Koreans only. Hotels, restaurants, bars all Korean owners AC is done for westerners within 5 yrs. Sometimes I feel like I am actually in Korea itself there are so many of Koreans walking around here.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2081749]I read it on this forum. Close your eyes and just listen to the voice. Is the voice female or male?[/QUOTE]The Filipino lady boys are so obvious that it be hard not to know. Its not like in Thailand where some of them do look totally female. Filipina ladyboys totally look like a man in dress.

[QUOTE=Streetlooker;2081793] ..................Filipina ladyboys totally look like a man in dress.[/QUOTE]I agree. If you fall for Phil version, you have no hope in Bangkok / Pattaya, LOL.

[QUOTE=Streetlooker;2081793]The Filipino lady boys are so obvious that it be hard not to know. Its not like in Thailand where some of them do look totally female. Filipina ladyboys totally look like a man in dress.[/QUOTE]I have seen ladyboys in the daytime that passed for female, add Red Horse and you will never know. Be careful and safe.

[QUOTE=LiveLaughFuck;2081560]



Fact is this, you either need to come here with a lot of money to blow if you want the highest quality of women, or you need to spend a significant amount of time living here to find a stunner to be your woman. Frustratingly as well, having youth on my side with good looks makes normal Filipino girls become even more shy than they usually are, blushing, can't hold my gaze, calling me 'guapo' without the exchange of numbers. I really wouldn't mind living out here to perfect my game and pick up some stunners, but when you're here for 3 weeks or so, you're stuck with these outrageous 3900 bar fines and a 3 k tip! Everyone needs to start low balling and flat out refusing to pay these prices. You're only going to drive them up to be in line with western prices, in which case you may as well stay at home.

You can get some seriously good looking Filipino girls. But on average they are far from attractive.

Unfortunately I feel as though this train can no longer be stopped, so unless I have some serious cash, or serious time to invest in the Philippines I won't be back for a while.

.[/QUOTE]I moved here a few months ago having been here many times.

In the past 40 days I've been with about (I stopped counting) 25-30 ladies. . some were afternoon delights, some were overnights and some were more than one night. I had a run once of 7 different ladies in my bed on 7 consecutive nights. I've offered to pay several times and been refused as many of these ladies have their own job and some level of independence. Mine arent dogs but they arent beauty queens, 10's either but all are in the 21 to 32 age range and all are happy normal and nice.

Some have said " if you give me money " then we arent friends any more and the relationship is different. So there most certainly are girls who most certainly are free. OK dinner, drinks and taxis might be accepted, but those costs of low. But amazingly there truly are lots of free. But you won't find it I think if you don't live here. Are state in your profile that you live here. And if you do state that you will quickly be tested.

The most common questions I get are " why are you here " and " why are you single " and " where's your GF ". And most girls on entering my apartment suddenly go all sheepish as if expecting an angry GF to come flying out the closet!

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2081627]That is exactly what the pinay is famous for. It doesn't happen with every girl you meet. In your case you met a few girls over a few days, worked your way through the duds and dudes. And then struck pinay gold.

That's a valuable lesson in itself. It takes a little research and a few mishits to get to the good ones.

For the ladyboy question, a real girl answer is always something like "lols No" where as a LB will answer, "Why?" "Why do you judge people?

If it helps ease your pain, your temporary GF has probably moved on.

BD.[/QUOTE]In addition to the "close your eyes and listen to their voice" trick I did a little research when I got concerned that my LB detector was not yet out of the packaging much less functioning. Things like Adam's apples (who knew right? I'm an idiot) and double jointedness came up as tell tales of LBness. There's some good posts here and elsewhere within an easy search of the internet, "how can you tell if someone is a ladyboy" comes to mind as a search term. But when contacting via social media most seem up front about it and I try not to get judgmental with my approach, just tell them it's a matter of taste (no pun intended) and I prefer bona fide women to fide my bona to. (pun intended). I guess with a little more practice I could improve on my LB detection skills but I don't have a significant population to deal with at home where the trans population here is a bit more politically focused and less directed at passing for feminine. So I just ask up front and directly, I haven't annoyed anyone so much they wouldn't meet later or so much that they tracked me down to give me a piece of their mind.

BD. Got to tell you, I am still chatting her over WeChat, she is a great gal and I plan to see her again when I return to the Phils. But if she has moved on and won't see me again there are others I keep in contact with. I think Westie is the one who has such great success with expanding the contact lists on social media and that's definitely part of my strategy now. One masseuse I saw on my first trip was relocating to Japan during my second and she gave me a referral to her friend to take care of me while she was gone. No sex with the first one on the first trip but the second girl, I started chatting with her a few weeks before arrival and after 2-3 texts she is asking why I didn't have sex with girl number 1. So when I arrive she comes over (on time pretty much, so solid gold for a pinay) and I didn't even really get a massage, just straight into bed and she took care of me for sure. No discussion of fees but no complaints when I put 2 K into her purse for the taxi home. Through girl number 2 I also made additional WeChat adds which looked very promising but I had no time to pursue. Just asked her if her friends were also interested to meet on the same basis and she says sure. Through all of this, girl 1 is still texting me occasionally and is now trying to sell me her nude selfies via WeChat. LOL no need for that with the PG on this forum hehe.

Final observation, mishits were few and far between, aside from my naivete about the LB, I still had good company and a decent meal that evening just didn't get laid, the Philippines is a target rich environment, maybe my standards aren't so high (mid 50's grey and overweight got to be real) but all of these girls were decent, slim, smooth skin with exceptional tightness where it counted. On top of that the massages were quite well executed as massages, and would have been very satisfactory even without the careful, sensitive, endings that were responsive to instructions in English. Quite a treat for a typical AMP customer from the states.

Dreaming about my next trip to the Phils already.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2080178]You have unintentionally created irony. The 'he' that you are referring to here is me. I had asked a question back in 2013. At that time your investigation of me revealed I had made several (comprehensive and informative posts) on Dumaguete (and Cebu which you overlooked). [/QUOTE]Pomp, I think you're correct. And I owe you an apology. Reading that previous post now, I'm not sure how I made the mistake. Somehow, from my recollection, I meant to call out someone else, a new guy who had only a few posts with questions. Obviously that is not you. You have many posts and they are informative. Its my mistake. Scratching my head.

[QUOTE=RickysWild;2081821]I have seen ladyboys in the daytime that passed for female, add Red Horse and you will never know. Be careful and safe.[/QUOTE]You must have missed the giant manly looking feet.

Do you mind me asking where you live, FF, and how you like it (besides the girls which are great). I am planning a retirement there in less than five years.

Thanks.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;2081880]I moved here a few months ago having been here many times.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=RickysWild;2081821]I have seen ladyboys in the daytime that passed for female, add Red Horse and you will never know. Be careful and safe.[/QUOTE]I like to see one that looks anywhere close to a female. I have yet to in the Philippines. Every ladyboy I seen in the Philippines is butt ass ugly and 100% Obvious. Even 15 red horses couldn't change their looks. IN Thailand that's a different story I have seen some very very feminine ladyboys in Thailand however I still was not fooled more then a few seconds.

The only place a struggle to tell is online. In fact, if I spot someone who looks exceptionally good looking, light skin, pretty face, good make up and dressed nicely, the ones that make me say WOW. It's almost certainly a lady boy. Ironic I know. This same lady boy that looks hot in a picture looks like a man in person 100% of the time. The reason being is the lady boys are at an automatic disadvantage, therefore spend a lot of money on improving their appearance and are masters of online photo manipulation I. E. With lighting and angles as well as photo shop. Lady boys here are extremely easy to spot in person from the facial structure, the exaggerated feminine mannerisms, and yes how they speak. They are also the most persistent and aggressive when told no to the point I've actually stopped and explained in detail how continuously badgering someone after the point they said no isn't going to change someone's mind, before asking how it benefits them to keep doing so? To which I usually get an awkward smile as they sulk off after being taken down a peg!

Also, from what I've found out, they have this very dirty tactic to take over wechat. One of my short times explained how she is now on her (6th! Wechat account as all her others keep being blocked. The lady boys want wechat to be woman free. So you can only pick a lady boy. So what they do is team up and block a female account, if she gets blocked by 5 people they deactivate your account. I don't believe she has any reason to lie and it seemed quite specific for her to make it up.

I would suggest this information is passed on and everyone immediately block any ladyboys you find on wechat. Some women are offended when you ask, they seem to believe it's more to do with their appearance rather than the fact it's harder for a westerner to tell the difference, just as a Filipino would struggle to tell the difference in your country. Explain this, I even go as far as to say I respect the LGBT community but I am only attracted to women, this helps avoid offense should you indeed be talking to a lady boy.

Also the old saying 'if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is' applies as always. Agreed short time 1000 p only to be countered with 500 p each for two women. Two lady boys turned up, even managed to get in (I think I was still assessing them at that point) before leaving in a fit of giggles when I said I'd call security.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2082040]You must have missed the giant manly looking feet.[/QUOTE]From Date In Asia: This is someone that admits to being a LB in their profile. If you think hands like that belong to a woman then you need your eyes examined.

[QUOTE=Streetlooker;2082053]I like to see one that looks anywhere close to a female. I have yet to in the Philippines. Every ladyboy I seen in the Philippines is butt ass ugly and 100% Obvious. Even 15 red horses couldn't change their looks. IN Thailand that's a different story I have seen some very very feminine ladyboys in Thailand however I still was not fooled more then a few seconds.[/QUOTE]While I agree with you that at least 95% of all Thai Ladyboys are obvious ladyboys and probably 99.5% of all Filipino Ladyboys are obvious ladyboys, it's that 0. 005% to 0. 01% that can totally fool you, or me, or anyone else contrary to your strong opinion. The good news is that a real passer would not be streetwalking or hustling in a mixed bar. She has sponsers and hangs out in expensive clubs, so the odds of you or me being led astray LOL, is very remote.

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[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2082065]From Date In Asia: This is someone that admits to being a LB in their profile. If you think hands like that belong to a woman then you need your eyes examined.[/QUOTE]There are a few that hang around Ayala Terraces in Cebu. They go into Bos Coffee, make lots of noise, at times compare their fake boobs and blow kisses at men. Young ones preferably. Are they obviously LBs? Some for sure and others are in the "am not sure" bracket but I have seen them fool a few old codgers in my time. These guys can't believe their luck until he finds a sausage he was not expecting LOL.

But have seen some young Americans with them holding hands in Bos and I know a good friend of the group (definitely a cutie as I have shagged her) who said some of the young guys have no idea and believe his 'girl' just likes in the backdoor all the time. Some mongers are very gullible LOL.

But that said a good mate from Thailand who swear he can spot an LB at 50 metres was fooled in Cebu not once but twice on the same day. That was a fun afternoon seeing him come back tail between his legs after telling me he was great at LB detection LOL.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2081761]Great report and observations from a young monger's point of view. The toothless hags in LA Caf are not worth 500 pesos. They maybe desperate but they hold out for 2,000 to 3,000 pesos and many fellas give it to them. Each day more newbies show up willing to pay higher prices to shoot their load. So, expect the trend of lower quality for higher prices to continue. Foreigners are decreasing in value because the president of the Philippines has been telling his people that most Western visitors are trash.

Now, things have changed. Even stunningly handsome young fellas with long thick cocks now have to pay higher rates for stunners. The runaway train cannot stop. As for what happened to AC, Koreans with huge amounts of cash are taking over the bar business is what happened.[/QUOTE]Yo CM, your mailbox is full.

[QUOTE=ScreamingBeaver;2083465]Yo CM, your mailbox is full.[/QUOTE]So, say I. Yo CM (Chocha Monger).

Much better reading sharp, objective posts like Chocha Monger, than hype, which is misleading for the uninitiated / newbie.

"Just say it", don't string it out with fluff. Yo!

An enterprising clubfooted German monger has managed to fund his mongering trips all over Southeast Asia by displaying his enormous clubfoot on sidewalks and begging for cash. His little scheme paid for mongering in the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Indonesia.

However, his luck ran out in Thailand where he was deported and blacklisted after he was caught using a 50,000 THB charitable donation intended to fund his return to Germany to buy pussy from Pattaya bar girls instead. The Begging Monger showed his dedication to the pursuit of pussy earlier this week when he unsuccessfully attempted to board a Thai Airways flight from Zurich to Laos via Bangkok.

[URL]http://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2017/09/14/most-hated-german-in-thailand-denied-boarding-a-thai-flight-to-laos/[/URL]

He is expected to return to the Philippines soon as his mongering options are now limited after deportation from Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia. So, beware of a begging blonde-haired clubfooted monger in his early 30's. His favorite hunting grounds for pussy and charitable souls are Angeles City and Manila.

[URL]http://philippineslifestyle.com/blog/2017/03/16/benjamin-holst-begging-conman/[/URL]

Unfortunately, this clubfooted monger is not alone in using creative ways to finance his lust for flesh. Many expat and backpacker mongers do their best to con others into donating cash that is quickly expended as a load in a bar girl's pussy.

As the caption says, hard to believe.

[QUOTE=LiveLaughFuck;2081560]You can get some seriously good looking Filipino girls. But on average they are far from attractive. It's not like Brazil for example where 1 in 3 are jaw dropping.[/QUOTE]I feel you. I took couple of filipinas to my hotel from Escape in HKG last February. One of them was easily a 9 and a half by my standards. I paid about 3000 HKD (almost 20 000 pesos) for a short time threesome session. That is way more than pulling two freelancers from a club in Philippines but even in retrospect it was well worth it.

I kept looking for a girl with comparable looks in AC during my short stay there but could not find one in the bars or clubs. During my short visit earlier this year I still got blown away by the GFE provided and the enthusiasm in the sack that more than made up for the lack in looks. To be honest, all the establishments I visited in AC had at least one girl I would take out. My eyes just skip over the ones that fail to meet my standards anyway. It is like an age-related vision problem: I only see the young girls.

I'm sorry to throw a little cold water on the discussions here but I think its important that members are fully aware of some of the dangers one faces in the Philippines.

You will not hear much about them as Philippines Jails are largely black holes with limited communication possibilities but there are currently around 1000 foreigners in Philippines jails. Of those maybe half are westerners and half of those are on sex related charges.

Conditions in these jails are as you might imagine horrendous. The main issue is insane levels of overcrowding (60-200 inmates per cell sharing 1 or 2 primitive CRs). The vast majority of foreigners are held in city jails on remand during the trial process. Relatively few are ever actually convicted, but the bad news is that the trials typically take 5 to 10 years. Yes you read that right. What that means is that guys can be locked away for 5-10 years on the most flimsy evidence (just "probably cause") provided the police can pin a non bailable case on him.

The primary non bailable cases are [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url], [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url], murder and anything to with drugs in excess of possession of about 5 g.

Of these the most dangerous for foreigners is [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url] as the courts are allowed to ignore distances, or anything to do with minors (under 18) where the DSWD can take the girl into custody and not allow her to desist.

Please note that both [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url] and [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url] are defined incredibly widely in the Phils so that they bare little or no resemblance to what you might think they are. [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url] can be as innocent"as taking a girl you thought was 18 to the beach when it emerges that she's-really 17. I'm afraid I'm not joking.

Having anything to do with under 18's is incredibly dangerous, and it is no excuse that you may have thought she was 18 or that she swore blind that she was 19 etc etc. If you have any doubt please insist that the girl brings valid ID with a date or birth (if necessary a NSO birth cert). Even being in a hotel room with an [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord903][CodeWord903][/url] girl is illegal if you are more than 10 years her senior, even if she is doing nothing more than watching TV and eating a bag of cheesy whatsits.

If you plan to spend any significant time in the Phils please get the name and number of a decent Atty who you can call in case of emergency. If you do get arrested, you may have a very limited time period in order to fix things with the PNP / NBI before the case is filed with the city prosecutor at whiich point the matter becomes 10 times more difficult / expensive to resolve.

A final point. Be incredibly careful with photos. Any uploading of naked or erotic photos is directly against Phils cyber crime law and opens you up to lots of potential trouble.

Hope these tips keeps someone out of jail.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2089247]I'm sorry to throw a little cold water on the discussions here but I think its important that members are fully aware of some of the dangers one faces in the Philippinesl.[/QUOTE]O&W.

Your last and only other FR was deleted by admin for discouraging memeber to write.

What you state is well documented in the news, on this board and other boards. In fact so much on this board that a RTFF would find countless comments. So nothing is new in what you post Did you post somethimg similar for India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, South America etc as what you say here could be said for those palce and other countries in Asia so why post here only?

Jails are tough even in the more developed nations and rules can be similar so please can you post similar for those countries and regions I noted so those who post there are also aware of the dangers.

I doubt if you have ever visited a jail based on your writing but I would encourage you to visit them in the Philippines. That is if you ever come here and then comment from personal perspective (same for those countries I noted earlier).

However is is better to have this discourse via the PM as so I would welcome your PM and we can continue it there as your topic has been reported on many times ad nauseum so PM when you want to continue this.

Look forward to the PM.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2089247]
If you plan to spend any significant time in the Phils please get the name and number of a decent Atty[/QUOTE]First problem right there.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2089541]First problem right there.[/QUOTE]Correct, the attorney is more likely to be your enemy, gouging as much as he can.

If attorney, get one reco'd by your Embassy / Consulate in Manila.

[QUOTE=Sxxxx;2089582]Correct, the attorney is more likely to be your enemy, gouging as much as he can.

If attorney, get one reco'd by your Embassy / Consulate in Manila.[/QUOTE]Sxxxx is absolutely correct that Defense Attys in the Phils are generally of poor quality and often interested to gouge you as much as they can.

The lists of Attys provided by the embassies (and I have seen most of the lists) are not tremendously helpful. They are essentially a list of the largest, most prestigious (and most expensive).

General law practices in the big cities. If you have a real estate deal etc they could be the right ones but for the majority of criminal cases people may find themselves in in an emergency they are likely to be useless.

The problem is that only general office numbers are given so you have to struggle through the bureaucracy to try to speak to a criminal law specialist. This is difficult enough were you at home in your apartment.

But you are likely to be in a basement cell of a police jail with poor reception, possibly with a bunch of other prisoners. Many of the big firms are very choosy which cases they take on either not wishing to take on foreigners with sex related cases.

Or in the case of the big name lawyers only taking on cases referred to them by the well connected.

The second issue is what constitutes a "good lawyer" . The ones on the embassy lists will almost always be reputable firms who pride themselves on "playing by the rules". Depending on your situation this may be in their interest (a nice long trial that they will eventually win having racked up 100 ks of pesos in fees,) but not in your interest if you are rotting in jail during this process. Less well regarded lawyers have a tendency to focus on more short cut type solutions which may be more in your interest if it can be achieved.

There is no easy solution to this. I am very familiar with the lawyers in Cebu so if anyone is concerned I can provide a couple of emergency numbers for Cebu but I'm not familiar with those in Manila I'm afraid.

Sxxxx is sadly correct that Attys in Phils in general and in particular in the criminal field are focused primarily on their own profit agenda rather than their client's interest.

The Embassies (and I have seen the lists provided by 4 or 5 of them) focus exclusively on the most reputable, high end generalist firms. These maybe a good choice if you wish to negotiate a real estate deal but sadly are next to useless if you wind up in jail and in need of emergency assistance.

The problems are.

1 The Embassies give the Head Office General numbers rather than specific names of decent criminal lawyers which is what you really need.

2 Many of these firms don't want to be associated with sex related cases for foreigners.

3 Most of the big name lawyers are fully booked and will only consider business from well connected referrals.

4 You will not be trying to sort this out form the comfort of your condo, but more likely in a police cell with limited cell signal, other noisy occupants, eavesdroppers etc.

More fundamentally the "high quality" lawyers typically pride themselves on winning cases by "playing by the rules" . The problem is that the Phils legal system is so insanely slow that this could result in a long and expensive time in jail whilst due process is carried out. Depending on your situation and the charges you face a less well renowned lawyer relying on "short cut"methods may be able to get you out quicker.

There is no easy solution I'm afraid. I'm very familiar with the legal scene in Cebu so if anyone wants a couple of emergency numbers for Cebu I can help, my knowledge of Manila is second hand but I can also suggest a couple of possibilities there.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2089247] Snip.... I think its important that members are fully aware of some of the dangers one faces in the Philippines.
Hope these tips keeps someone out of jail.[/QUOTE]Useful tips there OlderAnd Wiser that deserve to be aired, and re-aired from time to time, no matter how long you have been in the Philippines.

A recent incarceration of a Scotsman without charge is a good example supporting the points you make OlderAndWiser. Here we have a man who has been in a relationship with a Filipina for 6 years and based on her words he has been detained without any formal charge. His phone, laptop, immigration documents, banking records and even his car have been confiscated.

For more information see: [URL]http://philippineslifestyle.com/scot-imprisoned-bureau-immigration/[/URL].

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2089427] What you state is well documented in the news, on this board and other boards. In fact so much on this board that a RTFF would find countless comments. So nothing is new in what you post
Snip .....
I doubt if you have ever visited a jail based on your writing but I would encourage you to visit them in the Philippines. That is if you ever come here and then comment from personal perspective. [/QUOTE]You are pretty vigorous there Wicked Roger. No matter how new the member is I welcome postings on a variety of subjects that may appear as old news to some of us. I don't think it necessary to visit a jail (I have) to recognise how horrendous (OlderandWiser's word) that this experience would be like. We of the Western world would at least expect some legal rights of defence in our own home country justice systems. Not here in the Philippines.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2089706]Sxxxx is sadly correct that Attys in Phils in general and in particular in the criminal field are focused primarily on their own profit agenda rather than their client's interest.

The Embassies (and I have seen the lists provided by 4 or 5 of them) focus exclusively on the most reputable, high end generalist firms. These maybe a good choice if you wish to negotiate a real estate deal but sadly are next to useless if you wind up in jail and in need of emergency assistance.

The problems are.

1 The Embassies give the Head Office General numbers rather than specific names of decent criminal lawyers which is what you really need.

2 Many of these firms don't want to be associated with sex related cases for foreigners.

3 Most of the big name lawyers are fully booked and will only consider business from well connected referrals.

4 You will not be trying to sort this out form the comfort of your condo, but more likely in a police cell with limited cell signal, other noisy occupants, eavesdroppers etc.

More fundamentally the "high quality" lawyers typically pride themselves on winning cases by "playing by the rules" . The problem is that the Phils legal system is so insanely slow that this could result in a long and expensive time in jail whilst due process is carried out. Depending on your situation and the charges you face a less well renowned lawyer relying on "short cut"methods may be able to get you out quicker.

There is no easy solution I'm afraid. I'm very familiar with the legal scene in Cebu so if anyone wants a couple of emergency numbers for Cebu I can help, my knowledge of Manila is second hand but I can also suggest a couple of possibilities there.[/QUOTE]Tried to send this private mssg to OlderAndWiser, but it says he cannot receiev private mssgs.

Hello. I have been a 39 time visitor to Phil starting in 2004. I come about 3 times a year and stay 3 to 6 weeks each trip. I always land in Cebu (hate manila) and use Cebu as my base but like CDO, bohol, Davao and other areas for visits with chatmates I meet online. Have never had any legal problems (knock on wood) so far but I am aware that getting involved with these filipinas can lead to that no matter how careful a screening process I have. So I would appreciate the name and number of some competent lawyers that you know in Cebu. I am also thinking of possibly buying a condo there in a few years and I would need a good lawyer for that process as well.

Thanks in advance.

[QUOTE=Nightrider1;2090002]Tried to send this private mssg to OlderAndWiser, but it says he cannot receiev private mssgs.

Hello. I have been a 39 time visitor to Phil starting in 2004. I come about 3 times a year and stay 3 to 6 weeks each trip. I always land in Cebu (hate manila) and use Cebu as my base but like CDO, bohol, Davao and other areas for visits with chatmates I meet online. Have never had any legal problems (knock on wood) so far but I am aware that getting involved with these filipinas can lead to that no matter how careful a screening process I have. So I would appreciate the name and number of some competent lawyers that you know in Cebu. I am also thinking of possibly buying a condo there in a few years and I would need a good lawyer for that process as well.

Thanks in advance.[/QUOTE]I'll try to think of a solution, I don't especially want to become paid member just for the privilege of passing mostly ungrateful dudes sound advice. Your attitude is sensible. Its a bit like skiing you can go on 20 ski trips never have any problems then one day get a bit overconfident, go off -piste then wham you are doing a Michael Schumacker. The situation in jails in the Phils has become insane. There is an American guy in jail in Cebu who has been waiting his arraignment for over 3 months (now scheduled for tomorrow) and there is a rumor that his next hearing. The pretrial before the trial even begins will be scheduled for March.

I hate to ask this question after all these reports of jail. Well anyway what is the situation concerning weed in country. I know it is against the law. Was wondering if it was to be had without to much hassle?

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[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2090067]There is an American guy in jail in Cebu who has been waiting his arraignment for over 3 months (now scheduled for tomorrow) and there is a rumor that his next hearing. The pretrial before the trial even begins will be scheduled for March.[/QUOTE]So what is new? Welcome to the Philippines. A UK guy got bail recently after spending over a year waiting for his bail hearing so 3 months? He should count himself lucky but then maybe the judge, prosecutor or witness may not turn up on the day (that happens a lot) and so he will back in jail for another few months until the next date and hope they turn up then as if not the cycle continues.

Another inmate was asked to plead guilty to a crime he said he did not commit. If he pleased guilty he got 3 years. But if he still maintained his innocence the judge he would have to send him back (could not afford bail) and as he had been in jail waiting for a proper hearing for 6 years the judge asked to pleased guilty. He did and freed the same day.

Don't tell your US friend that as he may get concerned.

[QUOTE=RollAides;2090354]Dude. Extra judicial killings. Are you a moron? Go to Sihanoukville or something like that.

The only rational explanation for this question is that you are actually stoned while asking it. No offense against your chosen lifestyle, but no, do not come here if you prefer to continue. Breathing.[/QUOTE]I heard that long term use of MJ clouds your mind! But there is no scientifical evidence of that. LOL.

[QUOTE=Kelso1;2090248]I hate to ask this question after all these reports of jail. Well anyway what is the situation concerning weed in country. I know it is against the law. Was wondering if it was to be had without to much hassle?[/QUOTE]I am sure you can get some without much hassle. Ask around for the Dutere Jr. Brand.

I am planning for my Christmas vacation trip and would like to know if Angeles city / Manila / Cebu would be appropriate for a mongering trip. Philippines being a predominantly catholic country, would WG desert AC during Christmas break. Any other things to note?. Other suggestions for destinations are welcome.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2090580]I am sure you can get some without much hassle. Ask around for the Dutere Jr. Brand.[/QUOTE]Thanks for the info. Sure nice to see a sensible response instead of the wise guy one I first got.

I think I'll stick to Latin America as I know the ropes there very well.

[QUOTE=Kelso1;2090771]Thanks for the info. Sure nice to see a sensible response instead of the wise guy one I first got.

I think I'll stick to Latin America as I know the ropes there very well.[/QUOTE]I've heard that the problem with the Duterte JR brand is that one day the good reliable dealers are available and next day they are shot through.

[QUOTE=Nazgylg15;2090756]I am planning for my Christmas vacation trip and would like to know if Angeles city / Manila / Cebu would be appropriate for a mongering trip. Philippines being a predominantly catholic country, would WG desert AC during Christmas break. Any other things to note?. Other suggestions for destinations are welcome.[/QUOTE]80% of the WG are better looking than in my home country. So the ones that might go home to their province might be the unsuccessful lower ones so that leaves me 100% of better girls or if it's the top 50% that go home to provinces then 60% of the remaining talent will still be better than my home country.

Manila / AC & Cebu would be good to visit over your vacation.

Subic might be an option, it will be crowded with filipino families but the bars will be better than your home country.

I've said earlier that regardless of whatever WG status is, Philippines will be more fun than your own country. Apart from WG, the beer is cheaper, cigarettes are cheaper, hotels are cheaper, massages are cheaper and more plentiful. It's almost like the girls are a bonus. .

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2090939]I've heard that the problem with the Duterte JR brand is that one day the good reliable dealers are available and next day they are shot through.[/QUOTE]True some of the dealers are transitioned and transferred out under Dutere, Sr policies.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2090580]I am sure you can get some without much hassle. Ask around for the Dutere Jr. Brand.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2090939]I've heard that the problem with the Duterte JR brand is that one day the good reliable dealers are available and next day they are shot through.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2090944]True some of the dealers are transitioned and transferred out under Dutere, Sr policies.[/QUOTE]How do you guys know where all this shit is?

Do you think any of them transferred out to Latin America, where it's reportedly easier to get what you want? Or maybe some of them remains still in the Philippines?

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2090941]80% of the WG are better looking than in my home country. So the ones that might go home to their province might be the unsuccessful lower ones so that leaves me 100% of better girls or if it's the top 50% that go home to provinces then 60% of the remaining talent will still be better than my home country.[/QUOTE]I would think that the unsuccessful lower ones are the ones that stay behind because they don't have enough money to go home to their province.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2090941]80% of the WG are better looking than in my home country .....BD.[/QUOTE]Well, that is your opinion, LOL. There are a lot more prettier girls in your home country Australia, than the Philippines. Aust is also my country, so I know.

Its just that you can not secure young attractive women in Aust cause your too old, or not successful, read "money" endowed, relative to local ladies, Aust in this case, LOL.

Aust women have their own money = they are not inclined to sell pussy. Exceptions do prevail of course.

Phil girls do not have money (or education, or work prospects)= they are inclined to sell pussy.

The exhange rate in Phils makes you a Pesos millionaire, and what girl without prospects (no education, dysfunctional economy) , would not go with a millionaire?

So long as you understand why you are so popular in Phils, all is well. But re females, decent height, boobs, education / conversation level, and sex, is elsewhere. Only problem is, Western girls have their own money, and local culture requires them to fraternise with age compatible males. Exception? An old guy worth a heap (dollars, not pesos) , LOL.

We can not get it in our home country, so we go to a country like Phils, where we can get it, LOL. Long live the Philippines!

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2090941]80% of the WG are better looking than in my home country.

Manila / AC & Cebu would be good to visit over your vacation.

Apart from WG, the beer is cheaper, cigarettes are cheaper, hotels are cheaper, massages are cheaper and more plentiful. It's almost like the girls are a bonus. .

BD.[/QUOTE]I would agree 100% with your statement about the girls in your home country so maybe take one with you when you go back LOL but. Where would she stay and what would the other half think of you coming home drained every night LOL.

Cebu yes Manila and AC maybe but I can be biased there.

True things are cheaper but it can be a tad chaotic at times and some people prefer a quieter life. The thing with cheap booze etc is that is encourage some low life expats also that give the others a bad name etc. When I was in AC saw a few sitting around with a bottle, singlet shorts etc looking unkempt, dirty etc (same other places I know) and not a pretty sight.

Of course I compare them to myself BD and. Well no comparison LOL.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2091022]How do you guys know where all this shit is?
[/QUOTE]IMO this thread of looking for drugs in Philippines was a sad joke from the first post of Kelso1. It is widely reported about the tough stand on drugs and dealers in Philippines. For a foreigner to be involved in the business including using and sourcing is so risky that it doesn't deserve a serious response.

Here is further proof of 32 drug dealers who are now "shot through" on Aug 15th.

[QUOTE]Thirty two suspected drug dealers were killed in police shootouts in the Philippines on Tuesday night, during the bloodiest 24 hours so far of a state war on drugs that has killed over 7,000 people in the last year.

The police conducted 49 buy-bust operations, using undercover officers to attempt to buy drugs from suspected dealers, and 14 raids, in the province of Bucalan, just north of the capital, Manila, said police superintendent Romeo Caramat.[/QUOTE][URL]http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/08/16/drugs-tests-school-philippines-could-put-students-risk-amid/[/URL]

Let's get back to the enjoyment of filipina whom are so nice that drugs are not needed for their enjoyment.

BD.

[QUOTE=Sxxxx;2091060]So long as you understand why you are so popular in Phils, all is well. [/QUOTE]Well said Sxxxx.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2091157]I would agree 100% with your statement about the girls in your home country so maybe take one with you when you go back LOL but. Where would she stay and what would the other half think of you coming home drained every night LOL.

Cebu yes Manila and AC maybe but I can be biased there.

True things are cheaper but it can be a tad chaotic at times and some people prefer a quieter life. The thing with cheap booze etc is that is encourage some low life expats also that give the others a bad name etc. When I was in AC saw a few sitting around with a bottle, singlet shorts etc looking unkempt, dirty etc (same other places I know) and not a pretty sight.

Of course I compare them to myself BD and. Well no comparison LOL.[/QUOTE]WR is very correct about the appearance of a lot of foreigners running around AC they are very unkempt and look almost homeless some of them. Singlet shorts, a wife beater, and wore out flip flops nursing a beer all day because they don't have any money. A good example of this can be found at Vanallia bar (DMZ) 9 am to 3 pm for the 2 for one special they run. Same few dozen of fellas there segregated by a pole with the blacks on one side and the white on the other. Seems like to me they wear the same cloths everyday a really depressing sight. Need a ego boost go see these guys.

There is not a better pussy lubricator then Cash.

[QUOTE=Streetlooker;2091317] ...................Seems like to me they wear the same cloths everyday a really depressing sight. Need a ego boost go see these guys.[/QUOTE]Priceless. Must admit I am guilty of that.

I am a regular 'Joe' back in home country, but in the AC alleys and by-ways, I am a 'dandy' , sharply dressed, and wealthy beyond anyones dreams (Pesos). Angeles for an ego boost, agree, agree!

In fact I will be there this Tuesday 10th October for yet another an ego boost!.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2091243]IMO this thread of looking for drugs in Philippines was a sad joke from the first post of Kelso1. [/QUOTE]But we can hardly fault you and Dg for stringling the joke along. I understood it was a joke, but I thought it was in good taste. What else are you to say when he thanked Dg for reference to the Duterte Jr. Brand, thinking it was straight-forward information? In the end, he will stay in Latin America and out of the line of fire.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2091380]But we can hardly fault you and Dg for stringling the joke along. I understood it was a joke, but I thought it was in good taste. What else are you to say when he thanked Dg for reference to the Duterte Jr. Brand, thinking it was straight-forward information? In the end, he will stay in Latin America and out of the line of fire.[/QUOTE]I was enjoying the FRs also SS and when he thanked them for the information then that was proof for me that he was clearly smoking something 24/7 LOL.

Had something similar on the UAE board with the managers who asked 'where are the best clubs / girls / cheapest pussy / wild Arabs' etc.

Was a good chuckle.

I was planning on visiting the Philippines next year and was wondering if anybody can recomend a good city to stay.

My goal is of course mongering and diving. I'm really looking for a good Diving spot I hope somebody in this forum knows some good spots.

Hey all,

I have a question.

I'm thinking about coming to the Philippines for a longer stay soon, and leaning towards the idea of AirBnB (which I use quite a bit in regular business travel. I like the privacy, the sense of 'ownership' of the space, and most of all, the extra space to be able to work effectively from your room. I was just starting to type that it gets rid of the walk of shame, but actually many of these places are in condo buildings with security and receptions etc, so. Not so much. See'est la vie. Also, like the idea of being able to cook (read as: have a cute semi-naked woman cook for me).

Anyway, the one possible downside is cleanup. Not worried about cleaning up the place itself, but more thinking about sheets. Do many of you recommend AirBnB or the equivalent? How do you handle sheets? I guess it's just lots of laundry (depending on the girl! Need to make sure the place I get has washer / dryer? Just invest in a spare set on arrival (can't be expensive there I'm sure)?

Thanks,

BH.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2092433]

Anyway, the one possible downside is cleanup. Not worried about cleaning up the place itself, but more thinking about sheets. Do many of you recommend AirBnB or the equivalent? How do you handle sheets? I guess it's just lots of laundry (depending on the girl! Need to make sure the place I get has washer / dryer? Just invest in a spare set on arrival (can't be expensive there I'm sure)?
[/QUOTE]Generally you can ask the condo owner to provide both additional towels and bedding / sheets. On airbnb the general cost per maid's visit is 1000 php which seems a bit much, so I went onto Craigslist and found a girl who does 2 hours for 500 php. She usually comes 2-3 times during the week I'm there.

Hi guys, anyone know a good company that can pick up at Manila airport and drive you to Subic Bay? What's the current approx cost and travel time?

I'm heading there in 10 days.

Thanks.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2092435]Generally you can ask the condo owner to provide both additional towels and bedding / sheets. On airbnb the general cost per maid's visit is 1000 php which seems a bit much, so I went onto Craigslist and found a girl who does 2 hours for 500 php. She usually comes 2-3 times during the week I'm there.[/QUOTE]Thanks. Craigslist cleaner is a great idea.

[QUOTE=Shazzam;2092761]Hi guys, anyone know a good company that can pick up at Manila airport and drive you to Subic Bay? What's the current approx cost and travel time?

I'm heading there in 10 days.

Thanks.[/QUOTE]I'm thinking about P5 k. My driver takes me NAIA. Ac for P3 k, AC-Subic return for P3 k, so all up P5 I reckon.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2092433]but actually many of these places are in condo buildings with security and receptions etc, so.

Anyway, the one possible downside is cleanup. Not worried about cleaning up the place itself, but more thinking about sheets. Do many of you recommend AirBnB or the equivalent? How do you handle sheets? I guess it's just lots of laundry (depending on the girl! Need to make sure the place I get has washer / dryer? Just invest in a spare set on arrival (can't be expensive there I'm sure)?[/QUOTE]Security's intrusion varies a lot from place to place. It pays to do your homework by looking for clues in the AirBnB posting. Sometimes you can tell what the building looks like or even find an address, then go to GoogleEarth and zoom in to get a view of the building from the side. Big buildings with lots of units often have such a flow of people that security can't keep track of everybody. On the other hand, I stayed in a medium-sized building on Pablo Ocampo, across from the baseball stadium, and a couple of the security guards were a major pain in the ass.

The company that owned it had Christ in the name and tried to live up to their name. Five convenience stores on the first floor, and none of them were allowed to sell alcohol. Condoms on clear display by the cash register, but no alcohol. I ponted out the hypocrisy to cashiers and these poor women just smiled and shrugged their shoulders. But a couple of the security guards actively challenged people to show ID if they didn't recognize them. Once they even challenged my squeeze, who at that point had been in and out a dozen times. But this is the exception.

Another time I stayed in a condo that was one of a half dozen at street level, all with private entrances. We had total freedom of movement, although it was a bit off the beaten path for transportation. Also did not have any laundry facilities. Only one of the half dozen condos I have used had laundry, and then only a washing machine with spin dry. Still had to hang clothes to dry out on the balcony. In Manila heat and with wind whipping up along these buildings the clothes dry quite quickly.

If you buy additional sheets, just plan on taking dirty linen and clothes to a nearby laundry. Prices are cheap, turnaround is often less than two days, and they do a good job and fold things neatly. It's hard to justify doing your own laundry.

Here's another soluton: buy a couple cheap bath towels and put them down on the sheets under the woman's fluid dischage orifices. Tell her you're doing it to avoid chafing her ass, since the towels are softer than sheets.

BTW, 500 pesos for two hours work is cheap by your standards, but a lot for average Filipinas. Clerks in department stores and even some waitresses get 300 or less for an entire day.

Fortunately, I don't need to worry about privacy / hide from a spouse, etc, so security would just be the annoyance factor if in a large building. Good point on laundry. I did have an outside place do a load (not that kind of load) for me in Makati a few weeks back, and it was around 80p a kg or some such incredibly cheap number, and back in 24 hours. Very good value.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2092900]Security's intrusion varies a lot from place to place. It pays to do your homework by looking for clues in the AirBnB posting. Sometimes you can tell what the building looks like or even find an address, then go to GoogleEarth and zoom in to get a view of the building from the side. Big buildings with lots of units often have such a flow of people that security can't keep track of everybody. On the other hand, I stayed in a medium-sized building on Pablo Ocampo, across from the baseball stadium, and a couple of the security guards were a major pain in the ass.

... SNIP ...

BTW, 500 pesos for two hours work is cheap by your standards, but a lot for average Filipinas. Clerks in department stores and even some waitresses get 300 or less for an entire day.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Gutenberg1;2091978]I was planning on visiting the Philippines next year and was wondering if anybody can recomend a good city to stay.

My goal is of course mongering and diving. I'm really looking for a good Diving spot I hope somebody in this forum knows some good spots.[/QUOTE]I would say the best diving spots would be El Nido, Coron (wrecks), Puerto Galera, Malapascua. Research those. They are not cities, but just small towns.

[QUOTE=Gutenberg1;2091978]I was planning on visiting the Philippines next year and was wondering if anybody can recomend a good city to stay.

My goal is of course mongering and diving. I'm really looking for a good Diving spot I hope somebody in this forum knows some good spots.[/QUOTE]Sabang = good accomodation, quiet, everything in walking distance, good food, very good diving and cheap compared to Aust, about 7 bars. One bar Quantum. About 20/30 girls in school uniform 3000 perso total. Have I convinced you yet.

If you need more PM me.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2092900]

BTW, 500 pesos for two hours work is cheap by your standards, but a lot for average Filipinas. Clerks in department stores and even some waitresses get 300 or less for an entire day.[/QUOTE]Indeed but paying $10 for a few hours work feels awfully cheap to me.

Can someone tell me who was the financial analyst that try to tie the correlation of a day's minimum wages to the price of a fxck? I have seen this illogical nonsense on other boards too. Price is more tied to supply and demand in that market place and conditions with willing buyers and willing sellers.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2093087]Indeed but paying $10 for a few hours work feels awfully cheap to me.[/QUOTE]To me, too, but at that pay seems like there should be a very large supply of potential cleaning ladies.

Dg, it is about supply and demand. The supply of young women willing to sell their bodies is a function of other available jobs that pay as well. There are few well-paying jobs under reasonable work conditions available for uneducated Filipinas, thus there is a solid supply of willing women for p4p in countries where daily wages are low. In the immediate marketplace of exchange that takes place face-to-face between mongers and freelancers or bargirls, it is as simple as supply and demand of women and mongers. But the supply of women available as freelancers or bargirls is a function of alternative forms of employment.

For several decades the operating model for NGOs that focus on human traff__g was to go after the bad guys, the traff___ers, and send the rescued women back home, under the ignorant assumption that they really want to go back to living in poverty. In recent years a few of them have wised up and figured out that it's the unavailability of alternative employent that pays a living wage that makes the women susceptible to traff___ing in the first place. They now recognize it's about poverty, and that even if you take some bad guys out of circulation, the market will bring in others to take their place at the blink of an eye--and the women will often return to their prior positions in the trade. A few NGOs have even gone so far as to change their tune about s-x wor-ers, now almost romanticizing the free will of women to work in the trade, referring to them as entrepreneurs, and pushing instead to protect their rights against governments that prosecute them and let mongers skate--and try to create laws to protect them from abuse from their handlers.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2093106]Can someone tell me who was the financial analyst that try to tie the correlation of a day's minimum wages to the price of a fxck? [/QUOTE]Milton Friedman.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2093168]Milton Friedman.[/QUOTE]Cheap Charlie Milton made up that theory because he didn't want to pay more. He should have known that the law of supply and demand would prevail in an unrestricted market with no correlation to minimum wage.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2092900]Security's intrusion varies a lot from place to place. It pays to do your homework by looking for clues in the AirBnB posting. Sometimes you can tell what the building looks like or even find an address, then go to GoogleEarth and zoom in to get a view of the building from the side. Big buildings with lots of units often have such a flow of people that security can't keep track of everybody. On the other hand, I stayed in a medium-sized building on Pablo Ocampo, across from the baseball stadium, and a couple of the security guards were a major pain in the ass.

The company that owned it had Christ in the name and tried to live up to their name. Five convenience stores on the first floor, and none of them were allowed to sell alcohol. Condoms on clear display by the cash register, but no alcohol. I ponted out the hypocrisy to cashiers and these poor women just smiled and shrugged their shoulders. But a couple of the security guards actively challenged people to show ID if they didn't recognize them. Once they even challenged my squeeze, who at that point had been in and out a dozen times. But this is the exception.
[/QUOTE]With all due respect Sir Soapy, I live in a condo with very "strict" entry rules and I am forever grateful for it.

No matter who comes to visit me (family and friends), I get a call from the lobby on the in-house phone before anyone can come to my unit, even if I have advised them that I am expecting guests, and the same holds for other units. The security is very clever at recognizing regulars and transients. There is CCTV on every floor.

Our condo rules prevent sub-letting of units unless the new tenant goes through a registration process with the condo admin. If they are not duly recognized as a registered or approved guest at entry, they don't get in.

This is gratifying to me. It prevents random people roaming around my secure home passageways.

As you so correctly state, "Security's intrusion varies a lot from place to place". For me, in my condo, I welcome the intrusion, as I am an owner with a considerable investment tied up in keeping the standards in my residence high. As a result, our resale value and reputation for security is high.

If anyone is renting a place for a short-time and is pissed off at the security vetting the comings and goings, spare a thought for those who live there permanently and who pay (in their association monthly dues), for this vetting to be as intrusive as possible.

I have used Air BnB in many places around the world and I like it. I am not anti Air BnB, just as long as it's not in my property.

I would presume that if someone is advertising a property on Air BnB in a condo then the administration have probably approved it and it is allowed. It's not the case in my property.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2093264]

I would presume that if someone is advertising a property on Air BnB in a condo then the administration have probably approved it and it is allowed. It's not the case in my property.[/QUOTE]Correct RK. In the condo buildings I stay in, in Rockwell (Edades / Joya / Manansala) key package is left with Security and I register there when I arrive. From then on out I'm never questioned by Security and neither are the guests who walk in with me, only those who arrive alone. As it should be.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2093264]With all due respect Sir Soapy, I live in a condo with very "strict" entry rules and I am forever grateful for it.[/QUOTE]"Sir Soapy"? You do realize I live in a country where all that knighting stuff went out in the late 18th Century? Trust me, I will never qualify. And I presume you understand that "with all due respect" usually implies anything but.

I appreciate how this situation looks from your perspective, and I don't disagree that tight security is justified. But the one instance I referenced was not justified.

As I pointed out, she had been in and out a dozen times. She had shown her ID numerous times previously, including to this same security guard, and sometimes when I accompanied her. The first time we entered they required us to show IDs, and they entered our names and ID information in a log maintained at the security desk. That made sense to me.

This particular time the guard stopped her when she came in, wouldn't let her in when she showed ID, even after she referred him to the log entries from when we first arrived. I was up in the condo, so she phoned me. She reminded me that the same guy had let her in a time or two earlier when I was with her. She was standing by the security desk as she talked, so he presumably heard what she said.

When I got out of the elevator I suspect I looked angry. I was. When I approached, he raised his hands with his palms turned toward me and said, "no problem, sir, no problem. " I never spoke a word, so he knew he was in the wrong.

A case of mistaken identity? I don't think so, especially since he refused even to check the log where her ID information had already been filed. Since he had seen her with me previously, I have wondered whether this was his revenge toward a petite younger Filipina shacked up with an ugly old yank.

This really was an exception to the rule. I have found condo security guards to be courteous and helpful, and usually by the book. I once arrived at another condo building where the owner had not informed security of my arrival. Fortunately this was at 2 pm rather than midnight. The guard made a number of calls, eventually got hold of the owner, and then found a caretaker somewhere in the building to let me in. I don't have a problem with owners like yourself protecting your property, nor with security guards enforcing strict practices. I do have a problem with abuses of power.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2093479]Correct RK. In the condo buildings I stay in, in Rockwell (Edades / Joya / Manansala) key package is left with Security [/QUOTE]Checked with my Rockwell contact. They now DON'T allow Airbnb in Rockwell (effective a few weeks ago).

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2093559]
< SNIP >
I do have a problem with abuses of power.[/QUOTE]Soapy. I think your additional narrative about what went down in your condo does, in fact, point to such an abuse of power, since this security guy in your case was clearly just being an asshole.

Of course, if you had "kicked her to the kerb" after her previous visit, and told her not to come back, then you would have been grateful to security for keeping her out. Alternatively, in this scenario, if security had let her in without calling you, then you would also have been angry with them.

To my mind, the fail-safe system is for security to always call you to check if you are expecting X, Y or Z. I have a masseuse who comes to my condo on call at least once each week. Same woman each time.

Security still always calls me up and asks if I have ordered massage.

I prefer it that way. I never have unexpected knocks on my door. JMHO.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2094308]
To my mind, the fail-safe system is for security to always call you to check if you are expecting X, Y or Z. I have a masseuse who comes to my condo on call at least once each week. Same woman each time.

Security still always calls me up and asks if I have ordered massage.

I prefer it that way. I never have unexpected knocks on my door. JMHO.[/QUOTE]That was my first reaction to the comment as well. Without knowing the full circumstances of your relationship or your building security, I would not be too impressed with the girl having unfettered access to the building without some pre-check. Perhaps there is the option to contact the security guy in advance, tell him you are expecting Ms X and that it is OK to let her in?

And on the subject of airbnb, recently there was a news story of a young couple who rented a condo, and while there they discovered hidden spy cams (in the bedroom) installed by the owner. The owner has been banned by airbnb, but the damage is done, including airbnb's reputation (never very good to begin with, as like Uber and other third-party intermediary companies they like to take little responsibility for problems that arise).

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2094308]Of course, if you had "kicked her to the kerb" after her previous visit, and told her not to come back, then you would have been grateful to security for keeping her out. Alternatively, in this scenario, if security had let her in without calling you, then you would also have been angry with them.[/QUOTE]Yes, and perhaps I have been lucky or taken much for granted, because I have never had security, in a condo building or a hotel in Manila, let anybody up to my room without checking with me. In this case, every indication was that she was my partner, not a one time shag, and "unfettered access" was implied in the way we initially arrived together and our ID information was entered in their log. There may of course be times when even a partner gets kicked to the curb and it becomes incumbent on us to tell security to block their re-entry.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2094435]And on the subject of airbnb, recently there was a news story of a young couple who rented a condo, and while there they discovered hidden spy cams (in the bedroom) installed by the owner. The owner has been banned by airbnb, but the damage is done, including airbnb's reputation (never very good to begin with, as like Uber and other third-party intermediary companies they like to take little responsibility for problems that arise).[/QUOTE]To me it is common sense that Airbnb cannot do Shirlock Holmes type study and reserach on every property they advertise. If they did, their fees wohld have to be prohibitive.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2093163]To me, too, but at that pay seems like there should be a very large supply of potential cleaning ladies.

Dg, it is about supply and demand. The supply of young women willing to sell their bodies is a function of other available jobs that pay as well. There are few well-paying jobs under reasonable work conditions available for uneducated Filipinas, thus there is a solid supply of willing women for p4p in countries where daily wages are low. In the immediate marketplace of exchange that takes place face-to-face between mongers and freelancers or bargirls, it is as simple as supply and demand of women and mongers. But the supply of women available as freelancers or bargirls is a function of alternative forms of employment.

For several decades the operating model for NGOs that focus on human traff__g was to go after the bad guys, the traff___ers, and send the rescued women back home, under the ignorant assumption that they really want to go back to living in poverty. In recent years a few of them have wised up and figured out that it's the unavailability of alternative employent that pays a living wage that makes the women susceptible to traff___ing in the first place. They now recognize it's about poverty, and that even if you take some bad guys out of circulation, the market will bring in others to take their place at the blink of an eye--and the women will often return to their prior positions in the trade. A few NGOs have even gone so far as to change their tune about s-x wor-ers, now almost romanticizing the free will of women to work in the trade, referring to them as entrepreneurs, and pushing instead to protect their rights against governments that prosecute them and let mongers skate--and try to create laws to protect them from abuse from their handlers.[/QUOTE]A very good analysis. Too many make judgements on pay by looking at all countries as equivalent to the US. That shows ignorance. Ten USD goes much further for everything in Philippines compared with the US. In Thailand, prices used to be about same as Philippines for girls. Then mass tourism came to Thailand as well as greater demand for women by industry. Prices for girls roared up and quality women went to up market "clubs". Philippines is still like Thailand was years ago, but I fear that with increased tourist demand and some excess heavy tipping, the market will deteriorate like it did in Thailand.

[QUOTE=NewImage;2093076]Sabang = good accomodation, quiet, everything in walking distance, good food, very good diving and cheap compared to Aust, about 7 bars. One bar Quantum. About 20/30 girls in school uniform 3000 perso total. Have I convinced you yet.

If you need more PM me.[/QUOTE]3000 total for LT or ST??

[QUOTE=Fastpiston;2099919]3000 total for LT or ST??[/QUOTE]In theory, it is for LT (1. 5 K barfine, 1. 5 K tip). Sometimes the mamasan will ask for the total amount before you leave. You can say I will pay the tip afterwards.

But it is similar to Angeles. Some girls will want to leave early. From my limited observations, it seems that a higher percentage of girls in Sabang are willing to stay later and / or stay overnight.

IMO, Sabang (Puerto Galera) has the best combo of diving and mongering in the Philippines. Not the best diving or mongering, but the best combo. Subic Bay is second. Never been to Borocay, but people write that diving and mongering is not that good, but it is available.

The only place I can think of that has a better combo of diving and mongering than Sabang is Patong, Phuket. Patong has better mongering, but more expensive. But it is a 2 hour trip (each way) to your diving destination while Sabang is only about 15 minutes. Diving beauty is better in Phuket than Sabang.

Samui might have a better combo than Sabang, but I haven't really dived in Samui since the diving conditions aren't good in Samui between Nov to Jan.

Pattaya has marginal diving. Bali has marginal mongering (i.e. A pain in the rear).

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2094435]And on the subject of airbnb, recently there was a news story of a young couple who rented a condo, and while there they discovered hidden spy cams (in the bedroom) installed by the owner. The owner has been banned by airbnb, but the damage is done, including airbnb's reputation (never very good to begin with, as like Uber and other third-party intermediary companies they like to take little responsibility for problems that arise).[/QUOTE]I've seen stories like these pop up over the years about love hotels in Korea and even the famous novelist Gay Talese researched and wrote The Voyeur's Motel last year, a story that included alleged murders.

AirBnb and Uber are being subjected to a relentless attack by the MSM and activists which have taken the position recently that Silicon Valley and especially "the sharing economy" will be the end of us all. Oh no! How often does a report of a crime in a regular old taxi make the international news? Almost never. Heck, it's usually not even a front page event for a major city's local newspaper unless it's an almost crime-free place like Tokyo. But when a crime (or even a minor dispute) involves an Uber driver it's whipped up and blown out of proportion. It seems a large segment of the population demands perfection from particular businesses and certain groups of people, so any deviance from it, which is an outlier event, is taken to be the default and proof of a systemic problem.

How many Airbnb flats are rented daily in Manila, in the Philippines, and worldwide? A bet hundreds, thousands, and many tens of thousands respectively.

People need to get a grip.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2100023]AirBnb and Uber are being subjected to a relentless attack by the MSM and activists which have taken the position recently that Silicon Valley and especially "the sharing economy" will be the end of us all. Oh no! How often does a report of a crime in a regular old taxi make the international news? Almost never. Heck, it's usually not even a front page event for a major city's local newspaper unless it's an almost crime-free place like Tokyo. But when a crime (or even a minor dispute) involves an Uber driver it's whipped up and blown out of proportion. It seems a large segment of the population demands perfection from particular businesses and certain groups of people, so any deviance from it, which is an outlier event, is taken to be the default and proof of a systemic problem.

How many Airbnb flats are rented daily in Manila, in the Philippines, and worldwide? A bet hundreds, thousands, and many tens of thousands respectively.

People need to get a grip.[/QUOTE]Concur, and at the same time, respectfully disagree (somewhat). Cameras hidden within an airbnb residence is considerably more serious than cabbie disputes. Also, if it happened and was reported, then while its probably a rare occurrence its also happening more often than we would like to believe. The problem is fundamental in third-party hookup systems such as Uber or Airbnb: each company wants to disavow any responsibility of any issues between you and the host. Issues with rented hotels are resolvable thru the hotel, but many issues with a hookup system such as Airbnb are only solvable thru the host (just ask airbnb). What if the host is not of the opinion to resolve your issue? What if the host doesn't show up to let you into your condo, and doesn't return any contacts? Will Airbnb step in to help you find another condo? No. Do you believe that the host is the only one responsible? Does saying that these situations are rare absolve Airbnb of responsibility? Even if the host later returns your money, that does not resolve the conflict (it would be niaive to say that you paid nothing and got nothing, therefor the situation is resolved; but I think you know that is not the case: you are due more in reparation for your inconvenience of having to ride around in a taxi to find new digs, or possibly even more if you cannot find new digs in the same low price range as your airbnb unit).

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2100121]Concur, and at the same time, respectfully disagree (somewhat). Cameras hidden within an airbnb residence is considerably more serious than cabbie disputes. Also, if it happened and was reported, then while its probably a rare occurrence its also happening more often than we would like to believe. The problem is fundamental in third-party hookup systems such as Uber or Airbnb: each company wants to disavow any responsibility of any issues between you and the host. Issues with rented hotels are resolvable thru the hotel, but many issues with a hookup system such as Airbnb are only solvable thru the host (just ask airbnb). What if the host is not of the opinion to resolve your issue? What if the host doesn't show up to let you into your condo, and doesn't return any contacts? Will Airbnb step in to help you find another condo? No. Do you believe that the host is the only one responsible? Does saying that these situations are rare absolve Airbnb of responsibility? Even if the host later returns your money, that does not resolve the conflict (it would be niaive to say that you paid nothing and got nothing, therefor the situation is resolved; but I think you know that is not the case: you are due more in reparation for your inconvenience of having to ride around in a taxi to find new digs, or possibly even more if you cannot find new digs in the same low price range as your airbnb unit).[/QUOTE]I had an airbnb host not show up for 90 minutes in vegas while it was 115 f outside. I tried to cancel with airbnb that takes 30 minutes then I have to wait 1 HR before they can cancel so this is 2.5 hrs. Well last second they call me grrr. All sorry of course. Then they don't run ac during day and only down to 90 f at night unreal. After 2 months airbnb gave me a gift certificate. Never again. If I do only with 5 star super hosts and plenty of reviews or flexible cancellations.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2100023]
AirBnb and Uber are being subjected to a relentless attack by the MSM and activists which have taken the position recently that Silicon Valley and especially "the sharing economy" will be the end of us all. Oh no! [/QUOTE]I've used Airbnb pretty much since I first started coming to Manila 3-4 years ago. Never once had a problem, only once had to wait more than 10 minutes for check-in. Always found the owners to be conscientious, reasonable and (pardon the pun) accommodating.

Not sure I agree with Huts on the the MSM bias. I think a more likely suggestion is that Airbnb (being newer to the market, as with Uber) is more open to unscrupulous operators (landlords) who may well take advantage, whereas the more established hotel industry is well aware of litigious liability should cameras or monitoring devices be found by a guest.

Another thing to bear in mind is that when staying in an Airbnb and using the inhouse wifi, any data you're transferring is potentially open to misuse should the landlord know a thing or two about network security. However this is pretty much true of any public wifi network.

[QUOTE=GreenBud;2099940]Diving beauty is better in Phuket than Sabang.[/QUOTE]When was the last time you were out diving in Phuket? The corals are totally bleached and the place is shot to hell now. I was there last year and found it terrible.

IMHO the best diving spots are now in Indonesia.

[QUOTE=NewImage;2093076]Sabang = good accomodation, quiet, everything in walking distance, good food, very good diving and cheap compared to Aust, about 7 bars. One bar Quantum. About 20/30 girls in school uniform 3000 perso total. Have I convinced you yet.

If you need more PM me.[/QUOTE]Oh God, it sounds like heaven! Diving by day and cheap schoolgirls by night!

I don't think I have allowed enough time to go as far as Sabang this trip, but when I go next time I will plan on it for sure!!

[QUOTE=Blanquiceleste;2100324]When was the last time you were out diving in Phuket? The corals are totally bleached and the place is shot to hell now. I was there last year and found it terrible.[/QUOTE]I haven't been there for many years.

As I get older, I don't hardly ever snow ski or scuba dive.

Also, the prices for the Phuket go-gos girls are getting relatively expensive. Very expensive to barfine 2 or 3 at a time.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2100121]The problem is fundamental in third-party hookup systems such as Uber or Airbnb: each company wants to disavow any responsibility of any issues between you and the host. Issues with rented hotels are resolvable thru the hotel, but many issues with a hookup system such as Airbnb are only solvable thru the host (just ask airbnb).[/QUOTE]I see the issue differently here. I find airbnb to be little different than the yellow pages or newspapers that print adverts. I accept the risk of not using a hotel (higher risk) to accept the reward (higher reward), such as a lower tariff and better amenities. The problem is some consumers want the same protections offered by a hotel (lower risk) and still to maximise their own reward (higher reward). If a person has a low tolerance for risk they ought to use hotels; they haven't ceased existing and no one compels them to use airbnb. Airbnb endeavours to remove some of the risk (for example when I notify them within 24 hours the flat wasn't as advertised I'll get a different one), but it doesn't have the same control as hotel management. It never claims this, and I'm not paying for the hotel experience.

Airbnb doesn't disavow all responsibility, but it can't accept it to the extent the hotel does either. They're not the same. Let's keep in mind there are times when hotels screw up and don't have vacant rooms to relocate you. What then? A hotel may aid you in finding another place, but perhaps it's left up to you. You still have the hassles of packing, transport, re-check in, etc. Heaven help you if there's a major convention in town.

Airbnb is an alternative, but since hotels continue to exist Airbnb is not the replacement. People haven't lost anything, i.e. hotels, but they gained another option that falls on the spectrum of couch surfing, camping, and hotels. Yet some choose to see this as a loss of some sort.

As for hotels spying on guests, [URL]http://time.com/4914689/hotels-hidden-cameras-spy/[/URL] and [URL]https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/crime_courts/2017/05/09/hidden-camera-hotel-bathroom/314480001/.[/URL] I'm certain no hotel management advocates or tolerates spying (though there have been incidents of hotels allowing state intelligence agencies to do so, and not part of a criminal investigation), yet it doesn't exercise full control over its employees because it doesn't assign each one a minder, and then a minder to mind the minder to thwart connivance. Allow suspicion to cascade and we'd be soon be at the levels of surveillance to rival Stasi.

An article I found online regarding Trump's visit.

[URL]https://www.cbsnews.com/news/duterte-to-ask-trump-to-return-historic-spoils-of-war-seized-in-1901/[/URL]

Regarding some artifacts (church bells) taken from Phils by the US after a skirmish about 100 years ago.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2101632]I'm certain no hotel management advocates or tolerates spying (though there have been incidents of hotels allowing state intelligence agencies to do so, and not part of a criminal investigation), yet it doesn't exercise full control over its employees because it doesn't assign each one a minder, and then a minder to mind the minder to thwart connivance. Allow suspicion to cascade and we'd be soon be at the levels of surveillance to rival Stasi.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2094435]And on the subject of airbnb, recently there was a news story of a young couple who rented a condo, and while there they discovered hidden spy cams (in the bedroom) installed by the owner. The owner has been banned by airbnb, but the damage is done, including airbnb's reputation (never very good to begin with, as like Uber and other third-party intermediary companies they like to take little responsibility for problems that arise).[/QUOTE]IMHO, the share apps have greater risks because the vendors are smaller entities. Had an AirBnB serve questionable stuff for breakfast. Have also gotten sick from room service at major luxury hotels.

I am moving some stuff to setup in the Philippines and want to find out if a newer flat panel TV from the US will work in the Philippines. Dual voltage so that is not the problem. I think the Philippines is NTSC like the US. The question is how many channels are analog NTSC and how many are going digital? I heard the digital is different from the US. I assume a digital box could handle that if there is enough on the digital spectrum.

I also think you can get a satellite dish still as it has been many years ago that I had one from the Philippines.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[QUOTE=Wimble;2105580]I am moving some stuff to setup in the Philippines and want to find out if a newer flat panel TV from the US will work in the Philippines. Dual voltage so that is not the problem. I think the Philippines is NTSC like the US. The question is how many channels are analog NTSC and how many are going digital? I heard the digital is different from the US. I assume a digital box could handle that if there is enough on the digital spectrum.

I also think you can get a satellite dish still as it has been many years ago that I had one from the Philippines.

Thanks in advance for any advice.[/QUOTE]I get four digital channels using an indoor antenna. Strong signals deliver cable TV picture quality. Signal strength can vary from room to room without an externally mounted antenna. The number of channels will depend on your location and any obstacles in the way of the broadcasting transmitter. You are unlikely to find local programming interesting beyond news reports. Here are the digital stations in different areas. [URL]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_digital_television_stations_in_the_Philippines[/URL].

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2106164]I get four digital channels using an indoor antenna. Strong signals deliver cable TV picture quality. Signal strength can vary from room to room without an externally mounted antenna. The number of channels will depend on your location and any obstacles in the way of the broadcasting transmitter. You are unlikely to find local programming interesting beyond news reports. Here are the digital stations in different areas. [URL]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_digital_television_stations_in_the_Philippines[/URL].[/QUOTE]Thanks Chocha Monger. How many analog stations can you get? Can a US TV receive those analog stations are they are NTSC?

[QUOTE=Wimble;2106228]Thanks Chocha Monger. How many analog stations can you get? Can a US TV receive those analog stations are they are NTSC?[/QUOTE]My TV is digital only so I cannot receive analog signals. However, the Philippines uses the American NTSC standard for analog TV. Therefore, an American analog capable TV set would have no problem picking up analog Filipino channels. The Philippines intends to discontinue analog TV broadcasting in 2020 or not later than April 30, 2023.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2106461]My TV is digital only so I cannot receive analog signals. However, the Philippines uses the American NTSC standard for analog TV. Therefore, an American analog capable TV set would have no problem picking up analog Filipino channels. The Philippines intends to discontinue analog TV broadcasting in 2020 or not later than April 30, 2023.[/QUOTE]Thanks Chocha Monger. It appears to be moving faster than I expected given the price hurdle for a new TV in the Philippines. Just an FYI, I believe your TV does do analog; next time you scroll through the Input Source, there should be something like ATV for Analog TV, versus DTV for Digital TV. It should list your HDMI and other inputs too.

I don't think I've ever been in a vehicle in this country that has an automatic transmission. Why all of the stick shifts here? Just because they're cheaper to buy?

[QUOTE=Slippery;2109438]I don't think I've ever been in a vehicle in this country that has an automatic transmission. Why all of the stick shifts here? Just because they're cheaper to buy?[/QUOTE]Taxie drivers tell me it's because they get better fuel economy than automatics. I really feel sorry for the jeepney drivers. Can you imagine how tired that left leg must be after a day of pushing that clutch in and out.

[QUOTE=Nightrider1;2109451]Taxie drivers tell me it's because they get better fuel economy than automatics. I really feel sorry for the jeepney drivers. Can you imagine how tired that left leg must be after a day of pushing that clutch in and out.[/QUOTE]Fuel economy mustn't be too big a concern given that every pinoy driver pumps the accelerator (throttle) pedal every 5 seconds or so resulting in a jerk jerk jerk ride. This is using liters of additional fuel. They have obviously not heard of Electronic Fuel Injection and they all seem to do it.

Next time you're in a taxi watch how he pumps the accelerator in and out all the time. It drives me crazy (excuse the pun)

I asked my first driver why he did it and he explained it was to keep the fuel up to the engine or it would cut out. This was on the expressway where we were doing upwards of 60 kph. When I suggested to him to try driving with his foot steady and not pumping he was reluctant but then dumbfounded when not only did the engine not stop but we settled into a nice smooth ride. It took me around a month of reminding him but he now drives smoothly.

I think it originates with the jeepney which needs to be revved continuously because of the crap engine, and so everyone thinks that's how you have to drive.

[QUOTE=Slippery;2109438]I don't think I've ever been in a vehicle in this country that has an automatic transmission. Why all of the stick shifts here? Just because they're cheaper to buy?[/QUOTE]An automatic transmission adds about $800 to the cost of the vehicle initially. It also adds larger repair expenses later. In addition, the manual transmission will get better fuel economy by several miles per gallon of fuel.

If you are the purchaser of rental vehicles (many taxi's in phils are not owned by the driver, they are rented by the shift daily or several times daily) and are buying a fleet, cost of purchase, operation, and maintenance are large considerations.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2109480]Fuel economy mustn't be too big a concern given that every pinoy driver pumps the accelerator (throttle) pedal every 5 seconds or so resulting in a jerk jerk jerk ride. This is using liters of additional fuel. They have obviously not heard of Electronic Fuel Injection and they all seem to do it.

Next time you're in a taxi watch how he pumps the accelerator in and out all the time. It drives me crazy (excuse the pun)

I asked my first driver why he did it and he explained it was to keep the fuel up to the engine or it would cut out. This was on the expressway where we were doing upwards of 60 kph. When I suggested to him to try driving with his foot steady and not pumping he was reluctant but then dumbfounded when not only did the engine not stop but we settled into a nice smooth ride. It took me around a month of reminding him but he now drives smoothly.

I think it originates with the jeepney which needs to be revved continuously because of the crap engine, and so everyone thinks that's how you have to drive.[/QUOTE]Still drives me crazy when they do this and I haven't found any that don't pump the accelerator. Last time I was there about 5 months ago I got a Uber and it was a brand new car with an automatic transmission. Very nice!

Couple reasons for the need of pumping. 1. Fuel filter is clogged. 2. Need to reset the idle. Reminds me of my first set of cars decades ago.

Just make sure they don't need to pump the brakes!

In theory the automatic costs more to buy and the gas mileage is less. After you factor in the cost of replacing the clutch a few times especially in city driving the cost evens out long term.

The way most drivers lugged the gears and shift too early I don't think the gas mileage is any better, maybe even worse than with an automatic.

The other thing that drives me crazy is that they use the parking brake when sitting at a red light! Even on a level street.

[QUOTE=Shark5;2109623]Still drives me crazy when they do this and I haven't found any that don't pump the accelerator.[/QUOTE]Had a mini-bus driver in Seoul doing this, for hours on end on the freeway. Would plant the foot and the vehicle would surge forward, then he'd let it coast until speed dropped back to whatever, then he'd pump it again. Was with some colleagues from overseas and Seoul and we were truly getting motion-sickness from the constant surge-coast-surge-coast! Was told that the drivers reckon this saves fuel compared to keeping their foot on the throttle at a lower speed, Seoul colleague tried to reason with the driver but no, the driver insisted that the petrol companies spread the 'keep foot on pedal' idea as being more efficient just so they can sell more fuel!

It's a legacy method of driving.

Post world war II, a lot of these developing countries started building roads and more and more people started having cars. As well, the petrol they used would have dirt, water and all sorts of fun things so, pre Fuel Injection, this nasty petrol would easily disrupt the carburetor and points. Hence, this archaic method of driving where you are constantly revving to push a lot of fuel into your engine in the event a small piece of dirt or water would come into the carburetor and stalls the engine. Even today, if you rent a new motorbike in PI, the person renting to you will tell you to keep revving the engine to avoid it from cutting out. Philippines petrol just doesn't seem to have high quality.

You can see this style of driving in other parts of the world as well. Hong Kong comes to mind quickly.

I understand why they do it around town, but for the life of me, I simply can't comprehend the need for this style on the highway.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2109480]Fuel economy mustn't be too big a concern given that every pinoy driver pumps the accelerator (throttle) pedal every 5 seconds or so resulting in a jerk jerk jerk ride. This is using liters of additional fuel. They have obviously not heard of Electronic Fuel Injection and they all seem to do it.

Next time you're in a taxi watch how he pumps the accelerator in and out all the time. It drives me crazy (excuse the pun)

I asked my first driver why he did it and he explained it was to keep the fuel up to the engine or it would cut out. This was on the expressway where we were doing upwards of 60 kph. When I suggested to him to try driving with his foot steady and not pumping he was reluctant but then dumbfounded when not only did the engine not stop but we settled into a nice smooth ride. It took me around a month of reminding him but he now drives smoothly.

I think it originates with the jeepney which needs to be revved continuously because of the crap engine, and so everyone thinks that's how you have to drive.[/QUOTE]

Just wondering if anyone can provide a quick idea of "normal" wages girls might be earning in jobs like retail clerk, housekeeping, nanny, etc.

And how that varies between Manila / big city and smaller provincial towns?

I have a number of prospects working in these kinds of jobs and wonder what my "gift" to them will mean in terms of daily wages?

Thanks for any info.

GT.

[QUOTE=GentlemanTravel;2109891]Just wondering if anyone can provide a quick idea of "normal" wages girls might be earning in jobs like retail clerk, housekeeping, nanny, etc.

And how that varies between Manila / big city and smaller provincial towns?

I have a number of prospects working in these kinds of jobs and wonder what my "gift" to them will mean in terms of daily wages?

Thanks for any info.

GT.[/QUOTE]Depends in the job but my experience (and this will likely differ from others).

Call centre agents in training (with Telstra) get PHP7-10 k a month, later raising to PHP 20 k a month maybe more if stay the course after a long time.

Now retail ladies I know earn 3#PHP300-400 a day (yes less than US $10) and are on 'endo' contracts so after 5 months are terminated before they are entitled to full time benefits and then recontracted again. This helps the employers.

Hotel workers I know are on PHP 10-15 k a month but can rise with experience and if they get a full time contract.

I know some qualified CPAs are being paid PHP15 k maybe PHP20 k a month (qualified!

All in all regardless of cities (mine mainly Cebu) they are poorly paid and over worked and those who think paying PHP500 with a cheap bottle of perfume is a real 'gift' are just cheap charlies IMHO but they are out there I know LOL. Some pay lots of cash to come to the country then are cheap. Never makes sense to me LOL.

Am sure others will have other views but this is based on what I am told and suggest you read all the replies and make your own judgement.

[QUOTE=GentlemanTravel;2109891]Just wondering if anyone can provide a quick idea of "normal" wages girls might be earning in jobs like retail clerk, housekeeping, nanny, etc.
[/QUOTE]Uneducated labor, nanny, general work P300-P350 per day plus food / accom if relocating.

Degree qualified entry level call center work with good english P800 per day.

So work your range in that for your basic worker. Manila residents may expect more to go to work.

On the GFE front the girls whom can get a "direct" engagement with a punter for the same price as the punter pays via a barfine, these girls are winners.

Remember that the P300 worker is going to be dressed in simple street cloths. If you want girls to dress up, look nice, heels etc then you need to pay for that ie an AC freelancer expecting P2k-P3k need to dress like a bargirl too.

When I took an AC (trusted) girl away for a few weeks, I sent her money upfront to buy clothes and cover her transport. She did the right thing and was a great performer. Not all girls will be like her.

And as has been said in the forum many times, do not send money to girls you have not met. do no send money to girls you will not meet again.

BD

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2110025]Uneducated labor, nanny, general work P300-P350 per day plus food / accom if relocating.
[/QUOTE]I think your figures are a bit inflated BD and I am not sure where you're getting them from.

I pay my maid 6000 k per month; all food / coffee etc provided (she eats what I eat); she has her own room with bathroom and cable TV. One day per week off. This is better than the "award rates", and her fellow maids are envious of her. In return I get a dedicated and loyal helper. She has been my helper for almost 4 years now.

Local employers in my condo (in central Manila) pay around only 2500 - 3000 k per month and many don't even provide food for them.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2110053]I think your figures are a bit inflated BD and I am not sure where you're getting them from.

I pay my maid 6000 k per month; all food / coffee etc provided (she eats what I eat); she has her own room with bathroom and cable TV. One day per week off. This is better than the "award rates", and her fellow maids are envious of her. In return I get a dedicated and loyal helper. She has been my helper for almost 4 years now.

Local employers in my condo (in central Manila) pay around only 2500 - 3000 k per month and many don't even provide food for them.[/QUOTE]Think there's a difference between live-in help and casual, day labor. We pay live-in helper the same as RK with the same benefits; room, bath, food, TV, etc. However, we also have a lady who comes once, sometimes twice a week to help with ironing and some other chores. She gets Php350 a day with no other benefits. That's a fairly generous, but not really unusual rate for casual, daily labor in Davao. We too overpay slightly for the live-in help.

GE.

An article in the NY Times, "Another Foothold for Philippine Cuisine," extols the marvels of Philippine cooking. I don't see it. To me Pinoy food has Chinese, Spanish, and US fast food influences. Indigenous fare like balut is disgusting. The only redeeming dish is sinigang, a hearty yet thin soup which would work better in a colder clime.

[URL]https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/24/dining/tito-rads-grill-review-queens.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Ffood&action=click&contentCollection=dining&region=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=1&pgtype=sectionfront&_r=0[/URL]

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2110082]An article in the NY Times, "Another Foothold for Philippine Cuisine," extols the marvels of Philippine cooking. I don't see it. To me Pinoy food has Chinese, Spanish, and US fast food influences. Indigenous fare like balut is disgusting. The only redeeming dish is sinigang, a hearty yet thin soup which would work better in a colder clime.

[URL]https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/24/dining/tito-rads-grill-review-queens.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Ffood&action=click&contentCollection=dining&region=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=1&pgtype=sectionfront&_r=0[/URL][/QUOTE]No one can claim Phils is a world class cuisine, but it may not be quite as bad as most foreign visitors experience. In the cities the food is dominated by fast food often of poor quality. There are a few chains where you can get pretty decent traditional Phils food such as Cafe Laguna and Lighthouse in Cebu. If you ever get a chance to experience authentic peasant cooking you may also be pleasantly surprised by some of the dishes.

[QUOTE=GentlemanTravel;2109891]Just wondering if anyone can provide a quick idea of "normal" wages girls might be earning in jobs like retail clerk, housekeeping, nanny, etc.

And how that varies between Manila / big city and smaller provincial towns?

I have a number of prospects working in these kinds of jobs and wonder what my "gift" to them will mean in terms of daily wages?

Thanks for any info.

GT.[/QUOTE]Workers in official positions with large employers will generally be on minimum wage varying from around 500 P a day in Manila to around 270 P in the provinces.

[URL]https://www.nwpc.dole.gov.ph/pages/statistics/stat_current_regional.html[/URL]

Many people earn considerably below the minimum wage. For example most of the Chinese owned stores such as Unitop pay way under. Maybe 100-150 P.

People employed as EG nannies or helpers will generally get pocket money (2-5 k per month) if they are also live in / free food.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2110082]...Indigenous fare like balut is disgusting...
[/QUOTE]No so fast, maybe disgusting to you, but pretty pleasurable delicacy to a number of other people, who appreciate food.

[QUOTE=Lefeu;2110145]No so fast, maybe disgusting to you, but pretty pleasurable delicacy to a number of other people, who appreciate food.[/QUOTE]Taste is in the mind of the eater and I go with Pc and others on this forum who consider pinoy food inedible, full of fat, disgusting (have you ever eaten dangiitt? And loaded with salt and other bad stuff. Go to any mall in Cebu and try and find a healthy meal from a non resto (even some restos can't do that LOL) and you struggle. What about low fat / skimmed milks options? "No sir just milk" (so I bring my own and leave in my favourite coffee shop).

As we say 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder' and the same is for pinoy food. That I avoid like the plague.

[QUOTE=Lefeu;2110145]No so fast, maybe disgusting to you, but pretty pleasurable delicacy to a number of other people, who appreciate food.[/QUOTE]Funny, how situational food appreciation is. I spent much of my adult life in France, where I became a devotee of steak tartare served with raw egg. My wife can barely tolerate looking at me when I eat it, yet I find it delicious when prepared by my favorite Bistro Français here. I love escargots swimming in butter and garlic. My Filipino friends find it disgusting. Chacun à son goût.

GE.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2110053]I think your figures are a bit inflated BD and I am not sure where you're getting them from.[/QUOTE]My figures are what we are paying. Seems I'm overpaying he domestic help.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2110183]Funny, how situational food appreciation is. I spent much of my adult life in France, where I became a devotee of steak tartare served with raw egg. My wife can barely tolerate looking at me when I eat it, yet I find it delicious when prepared by my favorite Bistro Franais here. I love escargots swimming in butter and garlic. My Filipino friends find it disgusting. Chacun son got.

GE.[/QUOTE]You may like the Korean variation of it called [I]yukhoe[/I] (pronounced 'yook-hway'). Raw beef mixed with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, and topped with a quail's egg. Sometimes served on julienned Asian pear, and also available in bibimbab, a rice and vegetable dish. Often a Korean restaurant's English menu will call it sashimi because [I]hoe[/I] is what they call that dish. There's a place called KP2 near Remedios Circle in Malate and a few blocks away on Orosa St is Shin Sun. You may also like whelk, which is a sea snail like a smaller conch. I pick up a can from a Korean grocer from time to time, it's called gol-bang-ee. They're more like clam than escargot, less earthy and bit more chewy. Cook them in a broth of white wine, lemon, shallots or garlic, and parsley; have a garlic and butter dipping sauce, and serve with sliced toasted baguette.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2110154]Taste is in the mind of the eater and I go with Pc and others on this forum who consider pinoy food inedible, full of fat, disgusting (have you ever eaten dangiitt? And loaded with salt and other bad stuff. Go to any mall in Cebu and try and find a healthy meal from a non resto (even some restos can't do that LOL) and you struggle. What about low fat / skimmed milks options? "No sir just milk" (so I bring my own and leave in my favourite coffee shop).

As we say 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder' and the same is for pinoy food. That I avoid like the plague.[/QUOTE]Guess I can't argue with the nutritional aspect but I love both Pork Adobo and Beef Sisig. After that I start looking for Japanese or Thai places. I have had Balut a couple of times. Taste is fine if you can get out of your head what it is you are eating.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2110425]You may like the Korean variation of it called [I]yukhoe[/I] (pronounced 'yook-hway'). Raw beef mixed with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, and topped with a quail's egg. Sometimes served on julienned Asian pear, and also available in bibimbab, a rice and vegetable dish. Often a Korean restaurant's English menu will call it sashimi because [I]hoe[/I] is what they call that dish. There's a place called KP2 near Remedios Circle in Malate and a few blocks away on Orosa St is Shin Sun. You may also like whelk, which is a sea snail like a smaller conch. I pick up a can from a Korean grocer from time to time, it's called gol-bang-ee. They're more like clam than escargot, less earthy and bit more chewy. Cook them in a broth of white wine, lemon, shallots or garlic, and parsley; have a garlic and butter dipping sauce, and serve with sliced toasted baguette.[/QUOTE]Thanks for this. I think I might have tasted the Korean version, but that was years ago, and in my senescence I'm not really sure. I've never tried the whelk, but sounds pretty good.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2110183]Funny, how situational food appreciation is. I spent much of my adult life in France, where I became a devotee of steak tartare served with raw egg. My wife can barely tolerate looking at me when I eat it, yet I find it delicious when prepared by my favorite Bistro Franais here. I love escargots swimming in butter and garlic. My Filipino friends find it disgusting. Chacun son got.
GE.[/QUOTE]Well if the escargots are really swimming (and thus alive) I can understand your Filipino friends find it disgusting, LOL.

But raw egg? Are you not afraid of salmonella?

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2110932]Well if the escargots are really swimming (and thus alive) I can understand your Filipino friends find it disgusting, LOL.

But raw egg? Are you not afraid of salmonella?[/QUOTE]There are only 2 restaurants in town at which I eat tartare and the chefs at both are European, very professional, and know what they're doing, so no I do not worry about it. I do however take a pass on eating locally-sourced fresh oysters.

GE.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2091650]I was enjoying the FRs also SS and when he thanked them for the information then that was proof for me that he was clearly smoking something 24/7 LOL.

Had something similar on the UAE board with the managers who asked 'where are the best clubs / girls / cheapest pussy / wild Arabs' etc.

Was a good chuckle.[/QUOTE]I remember when we were giving no-brains the number of the Dubai police as the number for a place that offered pick up service.

Often wondered if any of the no-brains ever called and asked for a ride to get some anal. LOL.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2113090]I remember when we were giving no-brains the number of the Dubai police as the number for a place that offered pick up service.

Often wondered if any of the no-brains ever called and asked for a ride to get some anal. LOL.[/QUOTE]Sadly a Muppet dobbed us in and mentioned what was happening as Cons68 also gave google map coordinates as well and am sure some did follow.

Remember Fanstasia what a great hotel that was.

PM me as I maybe there Manila soon be good to catch up and reminisce.

[URL]http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2017/12/05/american-national-hangs-self-inside-nbi-restroom-57829[/URL]

A little while I posted a warning re the dangers of arrest in the Phils re sex offences.

Yesterday an American guy hung himself in the NBI cell in Cebu. I have no idea whether the allegations re this guy are true or not. As far as revealed so far the evidence seems to be flimsy. The NBI are highly likely to plant incriminating photos onto his laptop if there is nothing there already so we may never know the real truth.

What I do know is that this sort of thing can happen to guys who are totally innocent.

The problem is that the frenzy re [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url] in the West has spilled over to the Philippines and means that prosecutors, NBI etc are incentive to put people behind bars on this charge. (they have to report trafficking statistics separately and are monitored as to their progress. The real criminals who are behind what people would regard as genuine trafficking are hardened professionals who are difficult to catch. Therefore the NBI just make up the numbers by arresting 1 Ladyboys who are de facto pimping girls to foreigners and 2 Hapless foreigners who seem to be doing something that can vaguely be classified as trafficking. Unfortunately the definition of trafficking is so insanely all encompassing that things that you may not have dreamt might be considered trafficking.

Such as taking a girl who it turns out has lied about her age and is in fact under 18 to the beach, hanging out with 3 or more girls or being part of a group of 3 or more guys swapping details on girls can be construed as qualified trafficking, uploading pictures of girls to websites / forums (once the NBI has fabricated a little bit more evidence) . The significance of the "qualified" is that you will go straight to jail and have to fight your case from there which is extraordinarily difficult. Given the snails pace at which the court procedures are carried out this is likely to take at least a year, even if the case against you is entirely spurious.

I mentioned before its imperative if ever you find yourself in this situation to find yourself a competent and honest (v difficult to find) Atty ASAP. The system doesn't allow me to give phone numbers but one such lawyer in Cebu is a young Atty Perr Ferrolin. I strongly suspect that the American mentioned in the article was not able to speak to an Atty in time. For many people an arrest such as this will be the worst experience of your life and suicide is all too common.

Anyone have a cheap solution to the above question, As paypal want me to talk to me so that they then can un lock my account or a workaround if Known.

[QUOTE=ColLaw;2113642]Anyone have a cheap solution to the above question, As paypal want me to talk to me so that they then can un lock my account or a workaround if Known.[/QUOTE]Skype call.

[QUOTE=ColLaw;2113642]Anyone have a cheap solution to the above question, As paypal want me to talk to me so that they then can un lock my account or a workaround if Known.[/QUOTE]Did not understand. What is the 'above question'?

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2113577][URL]http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2017/12/05/american-national-hangs-self-inside-nbi-restroom-57829[/URL]

A little while I posted a warning re the dangers of arrest in the Phils re sex offences.

Yesterday an American guy hung himself in the NBI cell in Cebu. I have no idea whether the allegations re this guy are true or not. As far as revealed so far the evidence seems to be flimsy. The NBI are highly likely to plant incriminating photos onto his laptop if there is nothing there already so we may never know the real truth..[/QUOTE]No lawyer could help that fella. The law is very clear about not allowing minors to enter your residence unless they are your blood relatives. His lawyer may have argued that the film equipment, kiddie costumes and toys were circumstantial evidence. However, that would have been beside the point even if the NBI did not find incriminating photos on his devices. The dead fella was responsible for knowing the laws and obeying them. Once he breached the laws, it was too late. He faced languishing in jail for as much as a decade before going to trial. Meanwhile, he would have been prey for the hundreds of inmates infected with tuberculosis and HIV. The only way out of his predicament was the one he took. In doing so, he cheated the lawyers and NBI agents out of a considerable amount of money.

The NBI observes foreigners over a period, documenting their activities on video before accumulating enough evidence to obtain an arrest warrant. His neighbors also gave statements against him and the vice governor who chairs the Provincial Women's Commission wrote a letter to the NBI concerning the fella's suspicious activities. That was enough for them to lock him up without bail. He was clearly attracting attention. Many foreigners think that the Filipino community is grateful when they hand out toys and other giveaways in their neighborhood. Filipinos do not think like that. Instead, they start thinking that the foreigner must be getting much more in return for the gifts. Therefore, what followed was inevitable.

Lawyers in the Philippines are most helpful when one uses them for consultation to stay on the right side of the law not after one is accused of being on the wrong side of the law. Staying out of jail is much easier than getting out of jail. Keeping the neighbors and their kids out of your home goes a long way to avoiding legal entanglements. A house surrounded with a nice tall wall topped with barbed wire and strong steel gate with a speakeasy viewer makes for good neighbors. If you need a domestic helper, get one from several islands away sourced through an agency that conducts all the required background checks and clearances. Make sure she understands that gossiping with the neighbors is grounds for termination. Pay her well and give her enough vacation time to return to her province a few times per year. If she gets a local boyfriend, get rid of her. Understand that you must keep a professional work relationship with her. Girlfriends from other islands work nicely too. Meet them at the docks and when they are ready to leave, put them on the ferry. It will prevent the neighbors from interrogating her and offering her unsolicited advice on how to handle the foreigner.

[QUOTE=ColLaw;2113642]Anyone have a cheap solution to the above question, As paypal want me to talk to me so that they then can un lock my account or a workaround if Known.[/QUOTE]Sorry, but I don't see an above question. I scrolled down a bit and didn't see anything about paypal. I'll deduce you tried to do a paypal transaction from the Philippines. When I did so my account was immediately locked when attempting the second transaction; the first one done days earlier processed fine. This happened to me a few years ago and I wrote about it here. I called, spoke to the CSR, and was told it's paypal's policy to lock non-Philippine paypal accounts when a transaction from the Philippines was detected. It's to prevent fraud. They would not unlock my account even with my offer of emailing a copy of passport and other ID. They also acknowledged my first transaction processed fine, they didn't receive a fraud complaint, but they wouldn't accept this an evidence of legitimate use. I was told I could enroll for a paypal Philippines account, one that's separate from my other account. I'm not reliant on paypal for anything and decided just to say fuck it. I reckon for someone running an online or ebay business reliant on paypal payments this is a major hassle. BTW, before I moved to the Philippines I notified my bank to make sure my debit and credit cards could be used. I didn't do this paypal because I was an infrequent user and kind of forgot about it. I asked paypal if it allowed its customers to provide pre-move notification to prevent the account being locked; CSR said this was not an option.

The key thing is paypal is not a bank, so it's not subject to the same laws such as deposit insurance, etc. Has paypal improved the customer service? I don't know. Burn me once and I'm done with you when I have alternatives.

[QUOTE=ColLaw;2113642]Anyone have a cheap solution to the above question, As paypal want me to talk to me so that they then can un lock my account or a workaround if Known.[/QUOTE]Download an internet calling service. VoIP.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2114155]
The key thing is paypal is not a bank, so it's not subject to the same laws such as deposit insurance, etc. Has paypal improved the customer service? I don't know. Burn me once and I'm done with you when I have alternatives.[/QUOTE]I have a home country account which I transact when in Phils. It has never been locked just because I operate it from a Philippines IP address.

BD.

I have had online banking accounts lock me out when I transact from Philippines. Then I have to answer the security questions to log back on.

Also I have credit cards blocked when the charge is made in the Philippines and requires a phone call to reactivate. This happens even when I give them a travel notification.

Since this happens so often that I quit complaining about it and just deal with it. I have a VoIP to make calls to retify all this.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2114236]I have had online banking accounts lock me out when I transact from Philippines. Then I have to answer the security questions to log back on.

Also I have credit cards blocked when the charge is made in the Philippines and requires a phone call to reactivate. This happens even when I give them a travel notification.

Since this happens so often that I quit complaining about it and just deal with it. I have a VoIP to make calls to retify all this.[/QUOTE]DG87, unlike your experience, I have never had a problem using my credit cards anywhere in SE Asia including the PI after I began providing my credit card companies with travel notifications. I once had a major problem using my Charles Schwab debit ATM card in Jakarta despite a travel notification. BUT after free 20 minute long-distance Skype call to Schwab, actually 2 were required as the first call did not take; the situation was rectified and I have never had another problem withdrawing cash with that card again. So, a little perseverance and patience usually gets the job under control.

To the OP on using PayPal in the PI: I have never used PayPal in a foreign country. They might have a different policy than what I am used to, but have you tried linking a checking account in your home country to your PayPal account? That might solve your credit problem.

[QUOTE=NattyBumpo;2114237]DG87, unlike your experience, I have never had a problem using my credit cards anywhere in SE Asia including the PI after I began providing my credit card companies with travel notifications. [/QUOTE]It's a no-brainer.

Always advise your banks where you are travelling to, and when.

I move all around SE Asia for work and I always advise my bank because I expect they will query any off-shore transactions. I like the security they provide.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2114251]It's a no-brainer.

Always advise your banks where you are travelling to, and when.

I move all around SE Asia for work and I always advise my bank because I expect they will query any off-shore transactions. I like the security they provide.[/QUOTE]I have accounts with 3 different Canadian banks and they all have dropped the requirement for travel notice. In fact, they no longer have the facility to file travel notices.

When I am doing anything financial I always use my VPN and it looks like I am in Canada. I use my VPN on any system other than my own for all activity but if I am doing anything financial I use it always.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2114251]It's a no-brainer.

Always advise your banks where you are travelling to, and when.

I move all around SE Asia for work and I always advise my bank because I expect they will query any off-shore transactions. I like the security they provide.[/QUOTE]Me too RK. I use HSBC everywhere and I always tell them as I move around globally as you know. Mostly this works but there is the random security check hat will block a transaction and that can be annoying especially when if locked a $1 payment for WiFi on an aircraft (a carrier I use all of the time) but best be safe than sorry.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2114262]I have accounts with 3 different Canadian banks and they all have dropped the requirement for travel notice. In fact, they no longer have the facility to file travel notices.

When I am doing anything financial I always use my VPN and it looks like I am in Canada. I use my VPN on any system other than my own for all activity but if I am doing anything financial I use it always.[/QUOTE]I do the same, except for the fact that I use a VPN all of the time now.

GE.

For those who may be amused. This is from today's "Economist. ".

[URL]http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21732126-jeepney-treasure-or-menace-philippine-government-declares-war-beloved-vehicle?frsc=dg%7Ce[/URL]

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2113855]No lawyer could help that fella. The law is very clear about not allowing minors to enter your residence unless they are your blood relatives. His lawyer may have argued that the film equipment, kiddie costumes and toys were circumstantial evidence. However, that would have been beside the point even if the NBI did not find incriminating photos on his devices. The dead fella was responsible for knowing the laws and obeying them. Once he breached the laws, it was too late. He faced languishing in jail for as much as a decade before going to trial. Meanwhile, he would have been prey for the hundreds of inmates infected with tuberculosis and HIV. The only way out of his predicament was the one he took. In doing so, he cheated the lawyers and NBI agents out of a considerable amount of money..[/QUOTE]CM gives some excellent advice re dealing with neighbours kids etc but his overall conclusion: the guy's situation was so hopeless that suicide was a sensible option is IMHO fundamentally incorrect.

I do urge everyone frequenting Philippines even and perhaps especially the old timers who think they know all there is to know about life here to familiarise themselves with the law in this area in case they end up in a similar predicament.

Where CM is correct is that even having a minor in your accommodation even doing something entirely innocuous like watching TV and eating popcorn is a criminal offense. Worse still, its not just in your private accommodation, taking her on a bus ride or to a nightclub etc would also be an offense. Not knowing her age or believing her story that she is 18 will not help if it turns out she's under 18 (and the age gap between you is over 10 years). This offence is bailable but if caught you can expect the NBI to try to pin another charge that is non bailable as well such as qualified [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url] which would send you directly to jail. Before the charges are filed with the fiscal prosecutor it is at the NBIs discretion what charges to file so it is crucial that you have a good Atty to try to negotiate the best deal possible. In this particular case, the NBI are now backtracking on the Qualified [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url] charge and claiming that they were only going to charge him with a bailable offense.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, please note that they need a specific search warrant to enter private accommodation without you inviting them inside and to legally open laptops etc so please make sure your equipment is password protected, never divulge passwords to the NBI no matter how much they intimidate you and ideally don't have potentially dodgy material in the first place.

In these cases the story released by the media is often only part of the story as the media themselves are often corrupt / incompetent / working in cahoots with the NBI.

In this particular case the apparently suspicious fact that his luggage contained high end camera / lighting equipment is not so suspicious once you learn that he was a well respected documentary film cameraman / producer with a long stream of credits on mainstream Hollywood productions.

It should also be noted that "suicides" that take place in custody in the Phils are not always "voluntary" and credible information that this may be the case here is beginning to emerge. This is another important reason why if ever you find yourself in this type of situation its essential to get a decent Atty to see you ASAP.

Finally if you ever do find yourself in this dreadful situation, its not quite as desperate as CM describes, so don't top yourself! Even if you have been charged with a non bailable offence you can always file a motion for bail. The prosecutor will have to demonstrate that the evidence against you is strong for this to be denied, so if there is really nothing against you, you have a good chance to get out within a year or so. You will not get raped or physically harmed and unless you engage in dangerous behaviour such as unprotected anal sex or needle sharing you are unlikely to get HIV. Trials are averaging around 5-10 years to complete, so if there is evidence against you and you can't bail, you must be prepared for a long haul. (The Phils has a crazy system of distributing a trial over "hearings" lasting say 10-15 minutes at 1 to 6 month intervals which is why they take such an insane time to complete.) Relatively few people are ever actually convicted as generally complainants lose interest / fail to turn up so cases are often eventually dismissed. However sentences if found guilty can be draconian. For example an Australian citizen was found guilty (apparently correctly) a couple of months ago of 3 counts of date [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url] with the same girl. The trial took 7 years to complete and he has been sentenced to 120 years. His only real chance of getting out is to take the case to the Appeal Court which is expensive and time consuming.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2114376]Finally if you ever do find yourself in this dreadful situation, its not quite as desperate as CM describes, so don't top yourself! Even if you have been charged with a non bailable offence you can always file a motion for bail. The prosecutor will have to demonstrate that the evidence against you is strong for this to be denied, so if there is really nothing against you, you have a good chance to get out within a year or so. You will not get raped or physically harmed and unless you engage in dangerous behaviour such as unprotected anal sex or needle sharing you are unlikely to get HIV. Trials are averaging around 5-10 years to complete, so if there is evidence against you and you can't bail, you must be prepared for a long haul. (The Phils has a crazy system of distributing a trial over "hearings" lasting say 10-15 minutes at 1 to 6 month intervals which is why they take such an insane time to complete.) Relatively few people are ever actually convicted as generally complainants lose interest / fail to turn up so cases are often eventually dismissed. However sentences if found guilty can be draconian. For example an Australian citizen was found guilty (apparently correctly) a couple of months ago of 3 counts of date grape with the same girl. The trial took 7 years to complete and he has been sentenced to 120 years. His only real chance of getting out is to take the case to the Appeal Court which is expensive and time consuming.[/QUOTE]Desperate is an understatement of life in a Filipino prison. Former inmates describe it as living in the deepest darkest bowels of Hell with all manner of fell creatures. A few months of incarceration in a one of those overcrowded sardine can dungeons in the sweltering tropical heat and humidity intensified with the body heat and stench of human flesh over-packed tightly together is enough to break most Westerners. There is one toilet for as many as 150 prisoners to share, many of whom suffer from diarrheal illnesses due to the horrible unsanitary conditions and poor quality food.

An American would find his immune system challenged like never before by all manner of tropical communicable diseases and intestinal parasites. All morbidly obese Westerners turn into stick figures after a year or two of rapid weight loss due to malnutrition and frequent bouts of the squirts. Drug resistant TB is a prevalent in Filipino prisons where cramped conditions favor rapid spread of respiratory diseases among the inmates.

HIV is extremely common because many of the prisoners are intravenous-drug addicts who contracted the infection from sharing needles, or engaging homosexual anal sex to finance their addiction. While not every foreigner who ends up in a local prison is going to end up contracting HIV, none should expect to leave an anal virgin. Unfortunately, Filipinos find Western men very exotic and sexually appealing, and this is not limited to the women. Furthermore, they do not consider the practice of homosexuality out of convenience the same as identifying as a gay. Filipinos stick together and value tribalism. The foreigner is always the outsider, and Filipinos expect their compatriots to take their side and come to their aid whenever there is a dispute with a foreigner. This makes a Philippine prison an extremely dangerous and inhospitable environment for a foreign inmate.

As a foreigner, avoid anything that may possibly land you in a one of those filthy human cesspools. Forget about getting out, the system will keep you locked up until it drains every penny out of you. If you get out and do not have the money to pay off the years of visa fees and overstay penalties that accrue over the course of incarceration, the Bureau of Immigration will re-arrest and detain you in Bicutan Prison until you find a way to come up with the money. After paying up and convincing them that you are now a pauper, they will happily deport and blacklist you. A decade or two may have gone by before getting to that point. Friends and family may have passed away over the years, or simply forgotten about you and moved on. The government at home probably seized your home for unpaid taxes and auctioned it off. Your job skills will no longer be relevant. It is almost impossible to start over as an elderly man with nothing in America.

So, you get out of jail only to go home and wish you had offed yourself a decade or two back in the Philippines because you are penniless, homeless, and unemployable. Meanwhile, your Filipino lawyer is now a peso-millionaire from charging you American prices for legal services. The judge and the court clerks are doing well from all the fees you paid for filing numerous documents and requirements. BI made bank on all those accrued visa fees and overstay penalties. If you were found guilty of something or plead guilty to something, your accuser (s) are probably peso-millionaires too. That sure does not look like winning, for you! After considering the whole thing, the fella who knocked himself off and left the Filipinos to figure out what to do with his corpse seems like a very smart guy. If he was innocent and a victim of extortion, his action was even more rational because he did not reward corruption. He may have even discouraged future extortion attempts on Americans, as he was not a very profitable detainee.

[URL]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HVI1Ek_EnY[/URL]

Hello peeps,

Need a little info on what is expected financially for my chica if I take her with me on a short break (holiday).

So I met a beautiful Cebuano who has shown some interest in joining me on a short excursion, she's a freelancer working the club scene in "duma".

Obviously me being a "Phils virgin" I would like to gather some useful knowledge in what is expected of me to her in monetary terms.

I will be paying for the trip, everything from travel to accommodation and food etc.

Any info, as always would be much appreciated.

TIA.

RM.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2114572]Desperate is an understatement of life in a Filipino prison...[/QUOTE]Sober thoughts like this make me question a return visit, LOL. It has been stressed before by other gentlemen to always take a bribe offer (whether from the girl or the "police") if offered, before being arrested, especially if you are a newbie and / or travelling alone / under the radar. Of course, the best thing is to avoid "gray" situations altogether. Which usually go hand-in-hand with drunkenness.

[QUOTE=RengadeMaster;2114634]Hello peeps,

Need a little info on what is expected financially for my chica if I take her with me on a short break (holiday).

So I met a beautiful Cebuano who has shown some interest in joining me on a short excursion, she's a freelancer working the club scene in "duma".

Obviously me being a "Phils virgin" I would like to gather some useful knowledge in what is expected of me to her in monetary terms.

I will be paying for the trip, everything from travel to accommodation and food etc.

Any info, as always would be much appreciated.

TIA.

RM.[/QUOTE]Don't send her travel money unless you are willing to lose it. Her expectations are for you to take care of her "wants and needs", buy her the latest iPhone, pay for the next semester of school, etc.

This is the Philippines and she is a freelancer. It is customary to negotiate payment ahead of time. If you can't meet her expectations after she is already with you, then you will not have a good time. Per diem spending money requests run from P4000-20000 in my experience. I'm sure veterans here can refine that range. Just remember, this is purely a financial transaction so don't confuse it with romance.

And demand proof of age!

P.S. If she knows this is your first trip, you are going to get screwed. And not in the good sense.

[QUOTE=SaltyPete;2114829]Don't send her travel money unless you are willing to lose it. Her expectations are for you to take care of her "wants and needs", buy her the latest iPhone, pay for the next semester of school, etc.

This is the Philippines and she is a freelancer. It is customary to negotiate payment ahead of time. If you can't meet her expectations after she is already with you, then you will not have a good time. Per diem spending money requests run from P4000-20000 in my experience. I'm sure veterans here can refine that range. Just remember, this is purely a financial transaction so don't confuse it with romance.

And demand proof of age!

P.S. If she knows this is your first trip, you are going to get screwed. And not in the good sense.[/QUOTE]I hope you have talked to her cam to cam and seen each other.

If you liked her do not make any concrete plans till you both stay together at least one night. Sex bonds people. Good sex bonds better. You can get an idea about how much she is into you imagined or otherwise. If the vibe is not good ditch her.

If everything is good make plans and talk to her about what she likes. You will never have a good time if you decide on your own although money changes hands. Taking a girl on a trip is not what it is cracked up to be unless you bond first. Even then it is not a guarantee. If all goes well discuss money transactions. Usually how much per day. No up to you bullshit.

Gone are the days when phi girls follow you meekly around.

Good luck.

[QUOTE=RengadeMaster;2114634]Hello peeps,

Need a little info on what is expected financially for my chica if I take her with me on a short break (holiday).

So I met a beautiful Cebuano who has shown some interest in joining me on a short excursion, she's a freelancer working the club scene in "duma".

Obviously me being a "Phils virgin" I would like to gather some useful knowledge in what is expected of me to her in monetary terms.

I will be paying for the trip, everything from travel to accommodation and food etc.

Any info, as always would be much appreciated.

TIA.

RM.[/QUOTE]I will be quick to the points.

Paying for everything doesn't mean crap other than you want company and and you pay for the travel and food and everything else. The girl needs money for life expenses. She may come home with a full belly but it doesn't feed her family nor does it pay the bills. If the girl (s) doesn't need money they would never be hooking up with you or doing this.

Negotiate a daily rate and pay her. Don't do a minimum wage comparison as it has nothing to do with the daily rate. Remember she has the economic disadvantage so be gentle. In other words don’t be an A hole. No one can establish value other than you.

Have a great time.

[QUOTE=RengadeMaster;2114634]Hello peeps,

Need a little info on what is expected financially for my chica if I take her with me on a short break (holiday).[/QUOTE]RM,

Check your PMs and:

[QUOTE=Goferring;1969892]Hi guys,

Just a post on a trip I am having to highlight some of the risks and rewards of taking a multi day / week trip with a BG.
[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Goferring;1972066]OK, so the trip above is now finished. Her attitude improved over the second week but still wasn't all that I had hoped for.

[/QUOTE]In summary:

I paid 10 k per week for great sex on tour but everything else was a mind fuck.

The girl surrounded by hundreds of other competitors in a bar will not be the same girl out in the Provinces when she works out she is the only show in town.

While I was having fun with PinaLove, I received a PM from Wicked Rodger.

I've never met the guy but on line and on email he SEEMED like a nice guy, offering ideas on where to go in Cebu. He also casually suggested a local lass who could spice up my stay. This was the start of his vicious plan. However, it seemed innocent enough so I made contact with her and organised for her to drop around the following evening.

She showed up, 4'11" of bubbly cuteness and we headed up to the room. After chatting for a while, she ran of to the shower and when she returned the entertainment began. Her oversized hand bag held a ToysRUs sized collection of party enhancers which she proceeded to apply to various orifices, appendages and tickle points on both of us. At this point I was totally exhausted so she lay me on my back and proceeded to suck the bed sheets, three pillows and various pieces of small furniture through my arsehole. She certainly proved the irony in term blow job. After impaling herself on my man-sword repeatedly, she sprang off at just the right time, gobbled away again until I exploded well past her tonsils and straight into her digestive system. At this point I blacked out, coming out of my coma the next morning. THEN SHE DID IT AGAIN!!

So the moral of the story is: beware of Wicked Rodger's little friends. Once they have seduced you and you have let your guard down, they will fuck you up until it's impossible to think straight and the world becomes a blur.

Enjoy.

*The above story was edited and exaggerated to protect the guilty. All the very best to Roger and his wicked little friends. It will be great to catch up in person when our paths cross.

[QUOTE=Goferring;2114990]At this point I blacked out, coming out of my coma the next morning. THEN SHE DID IT AGAIN!!

So the moral of the story is: beware of Wicked Rodger's little friends. Once they have seduced you and you have let your guard down, they will fuck you up until it's impossible to think straight and the world becomes a blur.

*The above story was edited and exaggerated to protect the guilty. All the very best to Roger and his wicked little friends. It will be great to catch up in person when our paths cross.[/QUOTE]Hahaha the man has many friends. Great story.

[QUOTE=Goferring;1969892]A full on party girl may not be the one to mix with normal tourists nor blend in around town.[/QUOTE]Needless to say, some are not the most mentally stable nor educated so it is sometimes hard to for them to fit in even at a resort. Well same could be said about some of the other guests significant others! I do dive trips but rarely get to go for a week as many gals are not that into marine biology or wrecks and cannot survive without Internet. Case and point, one lady sitting next to me on an under 3 hour flight paid for Internet to check on her social media.

[QUOTE=Goferring;2114990]

So the moral of the story is: beware of Wicked Rodger's little friends. Once they have seduced you and you have let your guard down, they will fuck you up until it's impossible to think straight and the world becomes a blur.

Enjoy.

*The above story was edited and exaggerated to protect the guilty. All the very best to Roger and his wicked little friends. It will be great to catch up in person when our paths cross.[/QUOTE]This is freaky. The same thing happened to me a few years ago. I innocently met WR in a coffee shop, he later introduced me to not one TWO of his contacts. Happy days in Cebu.

[QUOTE=Goferring;2114990]While I was having fun with PinaLove, I received a PM from Wicked Rodger.

So the moral of the story is: beware of Wicked Rodger's little friends. Once they have seduced you and you have let your guard down, they will fuck you up until it's impossible to think straight and the world becomes a blur.

Enjoy.

*The above story was edited and exaggerated to protect the guilty. All the very best to Roger and his wicked little friends. It will be great to catch up in person when our paths cross.[/QUOTE]This is why I can't be bothered with PL etc unless am bored as plenty of friends and they have friends and like Kabul Guy he sifts and sorts etc. PL and DIA etc I have done and been caught out also, been disappointed and also found gems.

Your friend who nearly killed you is very kinky and quite demanding when she has not has a shag in a while so you 'caught' her at the perfect time G and am glad you were exhausted as she is very horny and cute.

Respected Seniors,

I have gone through this topic repeatedly in order to familiarize myself.

A newcomer to mongering.

My apprehensions are if we just stick to regular Mongering, I mean P4P getting contacts from dating sites meeting the babe in person and agreeing on a price before banging, like all we do and without picturing them or without indulging in banned things, age usually above 20 years.

Is it still risky to monger so that L. E. Will deliberately and intentionally book you just for their vested interests.

Is it much safer to stay at reputed hotel even if the tariff is high in comparison to low end hotels for Mongering.

Does high end hotel gives us any advantage if at all the P4P person indulges in drama.

And overall from Mongers safety perspective which is better Philippines.

Or Thailand or Dominican Republic.

Thanking you all.

I do urge everyone frequenting Philippines even and perhaps especially the old timers who think they know all there is to know about life here to familiarise themselves with the law in this area in case they end up in a similar predicament.

From the US State Dept website, travel warning to / inside Phils:

[I]The Department of State warns USA Citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the city of Marawi, Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago including the southern Sulu Sea, and to exercise extreme caution when traveling to other regions of Mindanao, due to terrorist threats, insurgent activities, and kidnappings. Similar threats also occurred throughout the Philippines in 2017. This replaces the Travel Warning dated December 20,2016.

There is a threat of kidnappings-for-ransom of foreigners, including USA Citizens, from terrorist and insurgent groups based in the Sulu Archipelago and in the southern Sulu Sea area. This area stretches from the southern tip of Palawan, along the coast of eastern Sabah, Malaysia and the islands of the Sulu Archipelago, up to Zamboanga City, Mindanao. The USA Embassy requires USA Government personnel to obtain special authorization before traveling to Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago.

Separatist and terrorist groups continue to attack and kidnap civilians, foreigners, political leaders, and Philippine security forces in Mindanao. On May 23,2017, the Philippine government declared martial law throughout the Mindanao region. Review the following information:

In September 2016, a terrorist group detonated a bomb in Davao City, killing 14 and wounding at least 70 people. Following the attack, the Philippine government declared a "State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao. ".

In May 2017, an ongoing conflict erupted between terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi City, Mindanao, resulting in multiple dead and injured.

In central Mindanao, extremist groups aligned with the Islamic State, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, and other armed groups have carried out attacks on local government institutions, civilians, and security forces in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces, where the government maintains a state of emergency and a greater police presence.

In Mindanao, terrorists, insurgents, and criminal gangs regularly conduct kidnappings for ransom. Since January 2017, at least six separate kidnappings have been reported.

In western Mindanao, terrorists, insurgents, and criminal gangs regularly conduct kidnappings for ransom.

The USA Embassy has restricted USA Government personnel travel to Mindanao.

There have been no reports of USA Citizens in Mindanao targeted specifically for their nationality; however, general threats to USA Citizens and other foreigners throughout Mindanao remain a concern.

Recent terrorist threats, kidnappings, and bombings have occurred throughout the Philippines. USA Embassy Manila received credible information that terrorists planned to conduct kidnappings in Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol provinces in 2017. In November 2016, a terrorist group planted an Improvised Explosive Device near the USA Embassy in Metro Manila. In April and May 2017, bombings in Quiapo, Manila killed two and injured twenty.

For further information:

See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Philippines Country Specific Information.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Contact the USA Embassy in Manila, Philippines, located at 1201 Roxas Boulevard, at +(63) (2) 301-2000, from 7:30 am To 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. After-hours emergency number for USA Citizens is +(63) (2) 301-2000.

Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 am To 8:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except USA Federal holidays).[/I]

And:

[I]Assistance for U.S. Citizens

U.S. Embassy Manila
1201 Roxas Boulevard
Manila, Philippines 1000
Telephone +(63) (2) 301-2000 x2246 and x2567
Emergency +(63) (2) 301-2000 x0
Fax +(63) (2) 301-2017
Email acsinfomanila@state.gov
Website U.S. Embassy Manila[/I]

[QUOTE=BobLou;2115208]
A newcomer to mongering.

My apprehensions are if we just stick to regular Mongering, I mean P4P getting contacts from dating sites meeting the babe in person and agreeing on a price before banging, like all we do and without picturing them or without indulging in banned things, age usually above 20 years.
[/QUOTE]In my personal experience I have not had any problems over 7 years of being an active monger in Philippines. I talk with consenting adult females. If I sense a handler or anything unsettling I just terminate that conversation and move onto the next. I do not live "on the edge" by pushing boundaries. I pay my way with the girls. Even I live in AC I have never ad a former flame cause any problems with a current flame.

Happy days.

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2115092]This is freaky. The same thing happened to me a few years ago. I innocently met WR in a coffee shop, he later introduced me to not one TWO of his contacts. Happy days in Cebu.[/QUOTE]Add me to the list of people who've nearly been "rogered" to death by one of WR's delightful little friends. Glory, glory what a hell of a way to die.

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2115383]Add me to the list of people who've nearly been "rogered" to death by one of WR's delightful little friends. Glory, glory what a hell of a way to die.[/QUOTE]Pray for me. She's coming around again tonight to wish me safe travels for tomorrow!!

There have been no reports of USA Citizens in Mindanao targeted specifically for their nationality; however, general threats to USA Citizens and other foreigners throughout Mindanao remain a concern.

Hey Westcoast thanks for the bulletin warning. I have traveled to Mindanao several times during 2017. Never felt threatened. L.

Luckily my last trip to Iligan city, only one hour ride to Marawi, occurred couple of weeks before the attack by the Maute brothers. Real sad situation what they did to the local Filipinos.

Up until now, martial law was in effect in that area, recently being lifted and normal travel seems to have resumed.

One does have to be careful, although it helps to always have family around you and not travel alone.

Safe travels to everyone!

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2115360]In my personal experience I have not had any problems over 7 years of being an active monger in Philippines. I talk with consenting adult females. If I sense a handler or anything unsettling I just terminate that conversation and move onto the next. I do not live "on the edge" by pushing boundaries. I pay my way with the girls. Even I live in AC I have never ad a former flame cause any problems with a current flame.

Happy days.

BD.[/QUOTE]In 20 years all over Asia:

Releived of my mobile and about $100 in cash (twice).

Pulled over by police and "fined" $10.

One girl threatened to call her Army friends on me.

Plus thousands of great nights, wild girls and shady places.

Both phones went when I got waaaay too drunk, picked the wrong girl and stayed at hotels that did not vet girls on the way in and out. I put those down to a IQ tax.

The fine was at 4 am when I had my legit girlfriend and several of her friends in the taxi heading back from a nightclub. All hot girls, tits spilling out everywhere and maybe 2 oz of clothing combined struggling to cover everything up. Must have looked like a mobile strip club. The "fine" was officially for not handing over my passport and ID.

The Army threat was when I refused to pay for promised services that were not delivered. I gave her my phone, said "Fine call any General in my Contacts" and that ended right there.

I get drunk, chase dirty girls, stay out way too late but I avoid doing all three at the same time. I'm polite and respectful of everyone regardless of where they stand in society. This means I have never felt unsafe nor have I ever been physically threatened.

[QUOTE=Goferring;2115434]I get drunk, chase dirty girls, stay out way too late but I avoid doing all three at the same time. I'm polite and respectful of everyone regardless of where they stand in society. This means I have never felt unsafe nor have I ever been physically threatened.[/QUOTE]I do at most one (maybe one and half) of that and I never drink. But your FR has a good pint. Don't drink and monger as this can mean trouble. One guy bemoaned he could never pull in the Philippines then one FR admitted he was waster every night by 10 pm seriously wasted and he wondered if that was a problem.

Pros like a drunk as means better chance to increase income etc. Ladies don't. Some monger are very angry and 'demanding' when full of booze also and make them total a**holes and the girls find out once and try to avoid and tell friends. Drink is not something I think should go with mongering and dirty girls. Now if the dirty girl is drunk well LOL (I know one who will happily tell when she is drunk she is a 'very dirty *****' - and she proves it every time LOL).

So don't get drunk tonight as you will need all your energy Gof LOL.

[QUOTE=Firebird;2115399]There have been no reports of USA Citizens in Mindanao targeted specifically for their nationality; however, general threats to USA Citizens and other foreigners throughout Mindanao remain a concern.

Hey Westcoast thanks for the bulletin warning. I have traveled to Mindanao several times during 2017. Never felt threatened. <SNIP>

[/QUOTE]The travel advisory is virtually the same one that has been issued for the past 5 or so years.

It is very similar to the "Smart Traveller" warning issued by the Australian Government each week.

Those of us who live here generally find these reports rather exaggerated but they are issued primarily to cover their backsides in the somewhat unlikely event that a national gets into trouble.

They can point to the website and say "told you so".

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2114572]Desperate is an understatement of life in a Filipino prison. Former inmates describe it as living in the deepest darkest bowels of Hell with all manner of fell creatures. A few months of incarceration in a one of those overcrowded sardine can dungeons in the sweltering tropical heat and humidity intensified with the body heat and stench of human flesh over-packed tightly together is enough to break most Westerners. There is one toilet for as many as 150 prisoners to share, many of whom suffer from diarrheal illnesses due to the horrible unsanitary conditions and poor quality food.

An American would find his immune system challenged like never before by all manner of tropical communicable diseases and intestinal parasites. All morbidly obese Westerners turn into stick figures after a year or two of rapid weight loss due to malnutrition and frequent bouts of the squirts. Drug resistant TB is a prevalent in Filipino prisons where cramped conditions favor rapid spread of respiratory diseases among the inmates.

HIV is extremely common because many of the prisoners are intravenous-drug addicts who contracted the infection from sharing needles, or engaging homosexual anal sex to finance their addiction. While not every foreigner who ends up in a local prison is going to end up contracting HIV, none should expect to leave an anal virgin. Unfortunately, Filipinos find Western men very exotic and sexually appealing, and this is not limited to the women.[/QUOTE]Some of what CM is saying is certainly true. If you do wind up in jail its going to be tough to get out. Even if you have a bailable offence and just need to arrange people from home to send through funds you maybe there a couple of weeks. If your family disown you as with an American guy who could not pay his (fake) far bill you might be there for a year even if your case is a minor bailable offence. The guy I am referring to has already been in Cebu City jail around a year I believe and is just waiting for two hearings (rescheduled for next April. Because the Judge did not show up at his hearing last month. ! The overcrowding in Phils jails is currently insane. Worse even than various CNN videos you can see on your tube as these were taken last year before the inmate population doubled. Fortunately anal sex is limited to those who want it or who are willing to sell it. That means that most hetero Foreigners can rest easy on that score at least, whereas gay foreign prisoners will have an almost unlimited supply of targets. Astonishingly communicable diseases are relatively rare IF you are sure never to indulge in risky behavior. Still more astonishingly the limited diet may mean that if you can afford to supplement the prison diet a little, and limit your stay to a year or two, you may come out more healthy than when you entered if like most foreigners you are overweight to begin with. Those who can't afford to supplement the prison diet however which is designed to be enough to sustain a 60 kg Asian are going to suffer. There is no reason to think you will be ganged up or exploited. If you treat people with respect and understanding, you will be treated as a minor VIP. That said the general sclerosis of the system leads to a horribly high suicide rate amongst foreign prisoners. Maybe 10% per annum would be a realistic guess.

I originally wrote the post to encourage people not to give up if caught up in that situation.

More and more information is emerging to think that this is not the suicide it was dressed up to be but something much more sinister.

[URL]http://philippineslifestyle.com/friend-doubts-jesse-phinney-suicide/[/URL]

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2115510]The travel advisory is virtually the same one that has been issued for the past 5 or so years.

It is very similar to the "Smart Traveller" warning issued by the Australian Government each week.

Those of us who live here generally find these reports rather exaggerated but they are issued primarily to cover their backsides in the somewhat unlikely event that a national gets into trouble.

They can point to the website and say "told you so".[/QUOTE]Red Kilt, totally agree with what you wrote!

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2115493]I do at most one (maybe one and half) of that and I never drink. But your FR has a good pint. Don't drink and monger as this can mean trouble. One guy bemoaned he could never pull in the Philippines then one FR admitted he was waster every night by 10 pm seriously wasted and he wondered if that was a problem.

Pros like a drunk as means better chance to increase income etc. Ladies don't. Some monger are very angry and 'demanding' when full of booze also and make them total a**holes and the girls find out once and try to avoid and tell friends. Drink is not something I think should go with mongering and dirty girls. Now if the dirty girl is drunk well LOL (I know one who will happily tell when she is drunk she is a 'very dirty *****' - and she proves it every time LOL).

So don't get drunk tonight as you will need all your energy Gof LOL.[/QUOTE]Roger,

Point by point:

1/ I'm lucky in that I'm a very quiet drunk. I'm far more likely to fall asleep rather than get aggressive after too many Rums. Yes, I've seen guys berate girls and even forcefully grab them in the bar. This is sheer stupidity and they quickly find that no other girl will touch them.

2/ I too sponsored a girl who was very quiet until the 3rd Rum and Coke. Then all hell broke loose any idea in any location was fair game.

3/ I love finding the boundaries of skilled providers. Last night was spectacular in the privacy of the room. Previously I was amused to find that she was very shy to engage in public places or where there was a risk of getting caught. The lift was certainly off limits and she reacted in amazement when I suggested areas outside the room where fun could be had. Hotel lobbies, business centres, ATM booths, discos, pool etc. Perhaps we should keep those as future training options when we return. LOL.

All the best, G.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2115493]... and I never drink. But your FR has a good pint. Don't drink and monger as this can mean trouble ...[/QUOTE]The FR has a good PINT? What a perfectly placed typo! Love it. Thanks for a big smile on a tough day mate. Catch you soon!

Called my bank last month to inquire on PH pesos per dollar exchange. Was quoted p45.95 per dollar. I know its a 8% haircut. Some years ago when the then-current rate was p46-47 per dollar range, they were offering p37 on the dollar (a 20% haircut).

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2117447]Called my bank last month to inquire on PH pesos per dollar exchange. Was quoted p45.95 per dollar. I know its a 8% haircut. Some years ago when the then-current rate was p46-47 per dollar range, they were offering p37 on the dollar (a 20% haircut).[/QUOTE]The banks are a serious rip off when it comes to transferring funds to the Philippines.

PayPal is OK for small amounts as they don't have fized fee, but they have a poor exchange rate.

Usually by far the most economc was is through one of the new generation of FX because such as Transferwise or Azimo for most of the world and remitly for the US.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2117475]The banks are a serious rip off when it comes to transferring funds to the Philippines.[/QUOTE]Well-known. However on this trip I was not prepared with any of my own pesos, and needed a small boost for taxi's and such when entering the country.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2117655]Well-known. However on this trip I was not prepared with any of my own pesos, and needed a small boost for taxi's and such when entering the country.[/QUOTE]I travel all around SE Asia and the best value for me is my ATM card (HSBC).

It seems to work in virtually every ATM everywhere, and it gives me the best forex rate too. I pay no transfer fees.

For daily forex official rates as used by Philippines Government, see [URL]http://www.bsp.gov.ph/statistics/keystat/day99.htm[/URL].

What is the best time of the year to visit? Weather should be mild and girls should be plenty.

This is my first trip ever, what would you recommend AC or some other city?

[QUOTE=Monger234;2117846]What is the best time of the year to visit? Weather should be mild and girls should be plenty.

This is my first trip ever, what would you recommend AC or some other city?[/QUOTE]If you have a half decent job, book yourself into a higher end hotel and live the life in AC.

When I'm back in my home country, I go out, 45-50 year old spinners are not even interested in me. The beers at home cost me P550.

Here in AC 25 yo is the maximum and the beers cost p30 at wholesale or P100 served cold in a bar.

The weather is only outside the bars, ie weather is of no consequence to me.

You should go to AC as soon as you possibly can. The weather and girls will always be better than in your place (wherever that might be.).

BD.

[QUOTE=Monger234;2117846]What is the best time of the year to visit? Weather should be mild and girls should be plenty.

This is my first trip ever, what would you recommend AC or some other city?[/QUOTE]The best time to go is, as soon as you can. If you are going for a month then the best months are the months with 31 days.

Weather is really not a consideration unless you are going to fuxk outside. Then use sunblock on your ass on sunny days. Rain or shine girls are a plenty.

Rtff for favorable cities.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2118271]
Weather is really not a consideration unless you are going to fuxk outside. Then use sunblock on your ass on sunny days. Rain or shine girls are a plenty.[/QUOTE]I would use sunblock on my dick as well. I'd rather have my ass burned than my dick. When my ass is burned I can still fuck, when my dick is burned I cannot.

As for the weather: better to avoid the peak of the rainy season (August, September) because it can really kill the mood a little bit when it rains for several hours almost every day. Especially when it's raining in the evening when you go out, which is quite often the case.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2118286]I would use sunblock on my dick as well. I'd rather have my ass burned than my dick. When my ass is burned I can still fuck, when my dick is burned I cannot.

As for the weather: better to avoid the peak of the rainy season (August, September) because it can really kill the mood a little bit when it rains for several hours almost every day. Especially when it's raining in the evening when you go out, which is quite often the case.[/QUOTE]Personally I keep my dick buried in that wet dark spot with short deep strokes free of any sunlight. I love heavy rain as I just wash my dick outside when I am finished. The girls love the outside rain as I don't need to use their long lucious hair to wipe my dick clean afterwards.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2118522]Personally I keep my dick buried in that wet dark spot with short deep strokes free of any sunlight.[/QUOTE]Be very careful with this. These dark holes have been proven to be highly toxic and addictive. After 30 to 60 minutes you may find your once proud member has shriveled to a fraction of it's former size and you will be forced to seek out another.

[QUOTE=Monger234;2117846]What is the best time of the year to visit? Weather should be mild and girls should be plenty.

This is my first trip ever, what would you recommend AC or some other city?[/QUOTE]Now is the time. It will be hot again in April. I suggest AC for starters. Personally I'd stay 10 days or so max then go to Bangkok, then Pattaya. Book taxis from airport via hotel, except Bangkok type skytrain if you like. I believe booking taxi thru hotel is best / safest option for newbie especially AC because you won't do something dumb if jet-lagged. Pattaya is just south of Bangkok. Tons of info these places in youtube and using google.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2119838] She responded in "it's better to be safe than to be sorry" mode, contending that the Embassy had to be able to issue warnings that covered several contingencies so that, just in case something untoward did happen, the US Government could not be accused of failing to warn its citizens. GE.[/QUOTE]So CYA implies liability.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2119838] The warnings will not deter knowledgeable and / or determined travelers, GE.[/QUOTE]But they do. My employer is governmental, and they have travel policies that are tightly coupled to State Department warnings. The State Department understands threat distinctions for disparate parts of the country, and even allows it workers to go to Mindanao, as you point out, "with permission. " But from the outside looking in, the State Department warning does not appear to distinguish among Sulu Archipelago, rural Mindanao, and Metro Manila. Because of this none of my efforts to "educate" officials about conditions in disparate areas of the Philippines make a difference. Formal organizations have various non-rational elements, and fear of legal liability is one of them. It can overwhelm any "rational" calculation of actual risk. I will PM you an example.

Because of the nature of their work, some NGOs are unable to deflect these situations with simple policies that avoid all risk of liability. Much foreign aid from Western countries has shifted since 9/11 from areas of greatest need (poverty, disease, etc.) to areas that pose the greatest security threats. So the NGO has to go into risky areas or forego money and their own commitment to humanitarian crises. NGO workers have sometimes paid for the dilemma with their lives.

I'd be interested to know how private sector employers deal with the travel warnings for the Philippines.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2117831]I travel all around SE Asia and the best value for me is my ATM card (HSBC).

It seems to work in virtually every ATM everywhere, and it gives me the best forex rate too. I pay no transfer fees.

For daily forex official rates as used by Philippines Government, see [URL]http://www.bsp.gov.ph/statistics/keystat/day99.htm[/URL].[/QUOTE]Using overseas ATM cards used to be the best way to go but unless you have a particular privileged account you are likely to face several layers of fees.

1 Your own banks international fees. Only a few foreign banks have a no international fees policy. Many will levy quite steep fees per transaction.

2 Visa / Mastercard will usuially take 1% which is charged via the exchange rate and therefore is not noticed via most people.

3 Domestic ATM fees. Most ATMs in Phils run by local banks charge a 200-300 P fee per wihdrawal from foreign issued bank cards. A few foreign bank branches such as Citibank offer no fee ATM withdrawals.

4 Exchange rate. ATM transactions are usually settled at the wholesale FX rate which usually has a very tight spread between bid and offer.

All of this can add up to a 5-6 % cost in many cases.

If you are staying in the Phils long term and funding yourself from overseas, it will almost certainly be more cost effective to open a domestic phils bank account Nowadays I thin you will generally be asked afor an ACR cardto do this.

Transfers through the new online FX service such as Remitly, Transferwis and Azimo will generally be made at close to the Wholesale exchange rate (compared with the individual exchange rate, probably 2-5% lower used in bank transfers or Western Union or Paypal etc. Transaction costs will typically run to around 1%. Once you have your money in a domestic bank account ATM fees are usually free for the same bank or 11 p for interbank withdrawals.

[QUOTE=OlderAndWiser;2122291].......

If you are staying in the Phils long term and funding yourself from overseas, it will almost certainly be more cost effective to open a domestic phils bank account Nowadays I thin you will generally be asked afor an ACR cardto do this.

Transfers through the new online FX service such as Remitly, Transferwis and Azimo will generally be made at close to the Wholesale exchange rate (compared with the individual exchange rate, probably 2-5% lower used in bank transfers or Western Union or Paypal etc. Transaction costs will typically run to around 1%. Once you have your money in a domestic bank account ATM fees are usually free for the same bank or 11 p for interbank withdrawals.[/QUOTE]I opened a local bank account while on my tourist visa, no issues at all, no request for an ACR card or other documentation other than the photocopy of my passport and entry visa. PRA had original for processing SRRV.).

Online remittance services are also good rates. I have used [URL]worldremit.com[/URL] but there are others out there. I can direct transfer from my Canadian bank account to a cash pick up here for not much fee and a not too bad exchange rate. I make the transfer online and leave to the pickup point and all is done by the time I get there.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2122617]I opened a local bank account while on my tourist visa, no issues at all, no request for an ACR card or other documentation other than the photocopy of my passport and entry visa. PRA had original for processing SRRV.).

Online remittance services are also good rates. I have used [URL]worldremit.com[/URL] but there are others out there. I can direct transfer from my Canadian bank account to a cash pick up here for not much fee and a not too bad exchange rate. I make the transfer online and leave to the pickup point and all is done by the time I get there.[/QUOTE]Can you send moneys to yourself while in the Philippines using your Canadian Bank? Would Scotia Bank or World Remit call your Canadian phone to confirm the transaction?

Sorry if this has its own thread but I'll admit too lazy to search haha.

What are your recommendations out here in the Philippines?

[QUOTE=JamesBlack007;2122947]Sorry if this has its own thread but I'll admit too lazy to search haha.

What are your recommendations out here in the Philippines?[/QUOTE]The hard facts are in its own thread.

Used the search bar at the top "dick pills Philippines" nothing up to date.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2122989]The hard facts are in its own thread.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=JamesBlack007;2123235]Used the search bar at the top "dick pills Philippines" nothing up to date.[/QUOTE]Then you are shit outa luck. Only one search! Too lazy for any more search?

[QUOTE=Nolz7;2122736]Can you send moneys to yourself while in the Philippines using your Canadian Bank? Would Scotia Bank or World Remit call your Canadian phone to confirm the transaction?[/QUOTE]I send money to myself in PH from American bank to Cebuana online without any problems or calls to my bank. I just bring my passport for ID to pick up the money.

[QUOTE=JamesBlack007;2122947]Sorry if this has its own thread but I'll admit too lazy to search haha.

What are your recommendations out here in the Philippines?[/QUOTE]Recommendations for what?

I recommend: You use the search function better, and also that you try Google.

[QUOTE=Nolz7;2122736]Can you send moneys to yourself while in the Philippines using your Canadian Bank? Would Scotia Bank or World Remit call your Canadian phone to confirm the transaction?[/QUOTE]I am now using HSBC and can transfer between my Cdn account and my Phil account all within the same website or smartphone app.

Using world remit I have sent money to myself no problem. They accepted the online verification process and no phone calls to prove myself. I have done this in several countries when I needed more cash than the ATM would disburse at a time.

Is there another fee that one can pay to ask questions?

[QUOTE=JamesBlack007;2123235]Used the search bar at the top "dick pills Philippines" nothing up to date.[/QUOTE]

I did some searching and it is not clear to me if you can arrange an UBER ride from Aquino Intl to hotels in Manila. Some report said it was not permitted (posted in 2015) but other posts in 2016 seem to support UBER is permitted. Two questions. Appreciate any confirmation if UBER is available and any for those that have used it any tips on using the service.

Thank you.

Sure, send me $50 and I'll answer your questions with a pretty little smile.

[QUOTE=JamesBlack007;2123465]Is there another fee that one can pay to ask questions?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=CallSignPapa;2123814]Sure, send me $50 and I'll answer your questions with a pretty little smile.[/QUOTE]I will answer questions for:

With a smile $49.50.

Without smile $49.00.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2123831]I will answer questions for:
With a smile $49.50.
Without smile $49.00.[/QUOTE]So a simple smile is 50 cents these days? Outrageous! Back in the good ol' days a smile was only 10 cents. And they were great smiles, they don't make them like that anymore.

The scene has detoriated. Prices have gone up, service has gone down.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2123881]

The scene has detoriated. [/QUOTE]Twas ever thus Mogwai.

On a slightly more serious note, and without meaning to be deliberately condescending, I find it funny that many of us spend money booking flights and hotels and making long (or in my case) short journeys all the way to Manila and then bear the costs associated with wining, dining and (if we do our homework) pounding away for hours (or in my case, minutes), AND THEN, we sit here and write up detailed reports discussing everything from a pinay's kinkiness, the types of bars to find them in, where to eat, etc, all with little reward beyond the gratitude of our fellow deviants and the satisfaction that sometimes we can help others avoid the mistakes we have made, and poor little JB007 is too lazy even to run a few searches.

I mostly find that attitude in the girls lying under me, not in the guys looking to follow me in. Good luck in Manila, you're going to need it.

[QUOTE=JamesBlack007;2123235]Used the search bar at the top "dick pills Philippines" nothing up to date.[/QUOTE]That's because no monger on this forum ever used such an absurd term as "dick pills". Maybe use more common phrases in your searches instead of sophomoric phrases and you will get better results. HINT: Pharmaceuticals will have a International Non-proprietary Name and usually a Trade Name.

Extra hint: Mongers are particular about what pills they take and specify them by one or another of in conversations on these boards, and in conversations with physicians, street touts and pharmacy staff. No monger ever walked into a pharmacy and said "I need a bottle of some dick pills". No peddler on Sukhumvit ever shouted, "Hey Farang, I got you some dick pills here". If you don't know what those "dick pills" are called, you probably don't know enough about them to correctly use them.

Final Free Hint: You probably need to see a doctor and let him determine if you actually need those "dick pills". He will tell you what they are called and give you a prescription so you can get them from your local pharmacist instead of some dubious Third World street vendor. If you can't afford that, you won't be able to afford a ticket to the Philippines.

[QUOTE=BusyDiver;2123784]I did some searching and it is not clear to me if you can arrange an UBER ride from Aquino Intl to hotels in Manila. Some report said it was not permitted (posted in 2015) but other posts in 2016 seem to support UBER is permitted. Two questions. Appreciate any confirmation if UBER is available and any for those that have used it any tips on using the service.

Thank you.[/QUOTE]I used UBER once in 2016 from Terminal 2 to Makati. I was told that they usually drive around the airport waiting for a call. Be warry about the canopy outside the doors as it may block the satellite signals.

[QUOTE=Nolz7;2124103]I used UBER once in 2016 from Terminal 2 to Makati. I was told that they usually drive around the airport waiting for a call. Be warry about the canopy outside the doors as it may block the satellite signals.[/QUOTE]Much of the time you don't need to worry about Uber or Grab Taxi at the airports as there are often plenty of taxis waiting.

The last 4 times I have arrived (all in December 2017 with 2 x in Terminal 2; once in Terminal 1; once in Terminal 3) there have been plenty of taxis waiting.

The last time I arrived in T3 a friend who lives near my condo was standing waiting for his Grab to arrive and invited me to join him. He had been waiting 10 minutes and was dismayed when I said "no need" and watched me walk across the road and climb into a taxi and away we went. It turned out that he never got home for another 30 minutes after me.

I have both Uber and Grab on my phone but I always wait until I have checked out the lines BEFORE I call either of them. If the delays are substantial then I call Uber or Grab. As I said, I haven't needed them on the last 4 occasions.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2124384]Much of the time you don't need to worry about Uber or Grab Taxi at the airports as there are often plenty of taxis waiting.[/QUOTE]I landed 1 pm recently at T3 (domestic flight arrival), grabbed luggage from the carousel, walked outside across the street and saw 50-60 white taxi's queued up, and not a single passenger in line! I was the only one. Never happens that way! Took the skyway to Makati and was in my condo less than 20 minutes after hopping into the taxi.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2124386]I landed 1 pm recently at T3 (domestic flight arrival), grabbed luggage from the carousel, walked outside across the street and saw 50-60 white taxi's queued up, and not a single passenger in line! I was the only one. Never happens that way! Took the skyway to Makati and was in my condo less than 20 minutes after hopping into the taxi.[/QUOTE]Never happens that way?

I think you just contradicted yourself mate.

We just provided examples (2 out of 2 cases) where it HAS happened.

- I arrived at Manila International Airport around 3 PM. Long wait at the Yellow taxi line. Approx 40 minutes extra. Same experience a few years ago when I arrived during the nighttime. Assuming the White taxis had a longer wait. Should have paid the extra pesos to take the coupon taxi, or called Grab taxi, or tried the zoo upstairs. There was a new VIP bus service. It was advertising "door to door". Does anyone know how that service is?

- Uber sucked on this trip. It had surge pricing the entire day (between 12 PM to 11 PM).

- Most meter taxis asked for flat fees. One asked for meter plus 50. But the flat fees were similar to the Uber surge prices. But in their defense, traffic was bad the entire day. It took about 45 minutes to go from Ermita to Makati.

- One Uber driver said business sucked for Uber. He said most were using Grab taxi now.

- I normally have my hotel taxi from Angeles pick me up, since I don't like Manila. This past trip confirmed that Manila is not my cup of tea. I prefer Angeles or Puerto Galera over Manila.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2124431]Never happens that way?

I think you just contradicted yourself mate.

We just provided examples (2 out of 2 cases) where it HAS happened.[/QUOTE]Correct and I'm happy to contradict myself. It *rarely* happens that way for me. Possibly it was holiday time as the cause.

2 weeks prior, landed T1 at 7:30 pm, and ran into a similar experience (waited about 2 minutes for white taxi, was at hotel 25 minutes after grabbing luggage). Happy days are here again.

As seen recently in Century Mall (Makati), at the ForEx downstairs.

Message from the Australian Consular Information (SmartTraveller) site follows:

Wednesday, 10 January 2018.

Latest update.

The Philippine Congress has voted to extend martial law in Mindanao until 31 December 2018. Measures imposed under martial law may include the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, curfews and establishment of checkpoints. Monitor media reporting and follow the instructions of local authorities. The level of our advice has not changed. Exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines overall. Reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao, and do not travel to central and western Mindanao, due to very high levels of violent crime, high threat of terrorist attack and kidnapping.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2127133]Message from the Australian Consular Information (SmartTraveller) site follows:

Wednesday, 10 January 2018.

Latest update.

The Philippine Congress has voted to extend martial law in Mindanao until 31 December 2018. Measures imposed under martial law may include the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, curfews and establishment of checkpoints. Monitor media reporting and follow the instructions of local authorities. The level of our advice has not changed. Exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines overall. Reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao, and do not travel to central and western Mindanao, due to very high levels of violent crime, high threat of terrorist attack and kidnapping.[/QUOTE]I think after Marawi a lot of the terrorist are in hiding. But then again that may make them more desperate to come out of the woodwork and do surprise attacks.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2126350]As seen recently in Century Mall (Makati), at the ForEx downstairs.[/QUOTE]I usually use ATM or credit cards without FX fees. I think the rates are better. Have not figured out which bank will give better TT rates for US to PI transfers. In some countries, I have been able to find 2 banks whereby I can get very close to the rates I get with my cards, net the fees.

[QUOTE=BusyDiver;2123784]I did some searching and it is not clear to me if you can arrange an UBER ride from Aquino Intl to hotels in Manila. Some report said it was not permitted (posted in 2015) but other posts in 2016 seem to support UBER is permitted. Two questions. Appreciate any confirmation if UBER is available and any for those that have used it any tips on using the service.

Thank you.[/QUOTE]I can't confirm any information regarding Uber, but the Asian ride-share company, Grab, does have a podium and pick-up area outside Terminal 1 at NAIA. After exiting the terminal, turn right and walk maybe 75 meters and you'll see it on the median. It is not necessary to have an Internet connection on your cell phone: the attendant will call a Grab driver for you. From NAIA to Ermita it cost me p193.

[URL]https://app.box.com/s/oh4k2s02uufxu708yqi6nn1tbclzhh99[/URL]

[QUOTE=BusyDiver;2123784]I did some searching and it is not clear to me if you can arrange an UBER ride from Aquino Intl to hotels in Manila. Some report said it was not permitted (posted in 2015) but other posts in 2016 seem to support UBER is permitted. Two questions. Appreciate any confirmation if UBER is available and any for those that have used it any tips on using the service.
[/QUOTE]Uber and Grab are both available.

However, as you will see from some recent posts here, sometimes the white and yellow taxis have few people waiting in line so it's worth checking them first before you rush to book a Uber or Grab.

The other problem when traffic is really crowded is that the Uber or Grab cars will take a long time before they can get to your pick-up point.

You need to consider all options.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2127133]Message from the Australian Consular Information (SmartTraveller) site follows:

Wednesday, 10 January 2018.

Latest update.

The Philippine Congress has voted to extend martial law in Mindanao until 31 December 2018. Measures imposed under martial law may include the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, curfews and establishment of checkpoints. Monitor media reporting and follow the instructions of local authorities. The level of our advice has not changed. Exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines overall. Reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao, and do not travel to central and western Mindanao, due to very high levels of violent crime, high threat of terrorist attack and kidnapping.[/QUOTE]Strictly from the perspective of one who lives in Davao, martial law here appears to be pretty much of a non-issue. I've never, since martial law was declared, been through a check point anywhere in the city, though I pretty much stick to the central parts. If there's an increased police or military presence, it's not visible and there's no curfew, other than that which applies to minors.

I'm driving to and from CDO in about 10 days, and the last time I made that drive, about 10 weeks ago, I think I went through two cursory checkpoints. So the enhanced security apparatus must be deployed around the usual trouble spots.

GE.

So, avoid Eastern, Central and Western Mindanao. I suspect Northern and Southern Mindanao are safe? I have just avoided Mindanao over the years except for a trip to Davao city center.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2127133]Message from the Australian Consular Information (SmartTraveller) site follows:

Wednesday, 10 January 2018.

Latest update.

Reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao, and do not travel to central and western Mindanao, due to very high levels of violent crime, high threat of terrorist attack and kidnapping.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Docwiltro;2127617]I can't confirm any information regarding Uber, but the Asian ride-share company, Grab, does have a podium and pick-up area outside Terminal 1 at NAIA. After exiting the terminal, turn right and walk maybe 75 meters and you'll see it on the median. It is not necessary to have an Internet connection on your cell phone: the attendant will call a Grab driver for you. From NAIA to Ermita it cost me p193.

[URL]https://app.box.com/s/oh4k2s02uufxu708yqi6nn1tbclzhh99[/URL][/QUOTE]From my observation, the Grab booths that I have used at Megamall & NAIA T3 are just run by people using the app on your behalf and they add a margin for this service. Using the app directly myself has been 20% cheaper and faster without the filipino manual handling logic.

BD.

I have had problems with Uber and Grab because GPS gets flaky and I am not familiar with a new city so cannot pin point my location. So the designated airport and other pick up points are great. With the Pinoy handling, the ride does not show up on my credit card. It is also cheaper than a hotel car.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2128345]From my observation, the Grab booths that I have used at Megamall & NAIA T3 are just run by people using the app on your behalf and they add a margin for this service. Using the app directly myself has been 20% cheaper and faster without the filipino manual handling logic.

BD.[/QUOTE]

There is a lot of negativity in ISG about levels of service in the Philippines and I have also chimed in on occasion, so I feel it is right and proper to acknowledge a significant upturn in 2 recent experiences here in Manila (note that I am in my 21st year of permanent residence so I have a wide range of experiences as benchmarks over the years).

Number 1: I just returned from the Bureau of Immigration in Intramuros where I paid my "Annual Report fee", the princely sum of 310 php. The Annual Report is a requirement for all those resident in the Phils on ACRs and permanent visas and must be paid in the first 60 days of each year.

It took me 7 minutes start to finish (last year it was 1 hour plus).

Number 2: Yesterday I visited LTO to renew my Driver's Licence. It took 20 minutes start to finish including the cursory medical and the printing of a new licence with photo and fingerprints. Last time it took me around half the day.

So that's 2 examples of things moving into the 21st century regarding levels of service.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2132249]There is a lot of negativity in ISG about levels of service in the Philippines and I have also chimed in on occasion, so I feel it is right and proper to acknowledge a significant upturn in 2 recent experiences here in Manila (note that I am in my 21st year of permanent residence so I have a wide range of experiences as benchmarks over the years).

Number 1: I just returned from the Bureau of Immigration in Intramuros where I paid my "Annual Report fee", the princely sum of 310 php. The Annual Report is a requirement for all those resident in the Phils on ACRs and permanent visas and must be paid in the first 60 days of each year.

It took me 7 minutes start to finish (last year it was 1 hour plus).

Number 2: Yesterday I visited LTO to renew my Driver's Licence. It took 20 minutes start to finish including the cursory medical and the printing of a new licence with photo and fingerprints. Last time it took me around half the day.

So that's 2 examples of things moving into the 21st century regarding levels of service.[/QUOTE]Thanks for the update RK.

When I went to get my ACR I-card about 4 months ago, took me around 2 hours in SM Aura in BGC. I guess YMMV, however there were multiple steps each with a different line, not such a straightforward process.

[QUOTE=BaboyDave;2132261]Thanks for the update RK.

When I went to get my ACR I-card about 4 months ago, took me around 2 hours in SM Aura in BGC. I guess YMMV, however there were multiple steps each with a different line, not such a straightforward process.[/QUOTE]Two hours to obtain an ACR-I card is ok BDave. I wouldn't worry too much about that, especially with the clusterfuck occurring around most of the government service offices in the malls.

I agree that the multiple steps passing from window to window and line to line is often a bit frustrating but at least you got your card so that's a good output.

[URL]nypost.com[/URL]/2018/01/23/ man-gets-life-for-buying-filipino-children-to-use-for-sex-and-porn /.

Should get it!!

[QUOTE=Bushes;2127955]So, avoid Eastern, Central and Western Mindanao. I suspect Northern and Southern Mindanao are safe? I have just avoided Mindanao over the years except for a trip to Davao city center.[/QUOTE]I am right now in Northern Mindanao and all appears to be quite safe. Local public moving about with ease although there is large concentration of military staff everywhere.

The evening curfew is still maintained.

Last week I landed in Laquindigan airport and was extremely pleased to see more than dozen "Westerner" arriving on the same flight.

Walking about I also see many "Westerner" in malls. So take it from there.

Very nice country and nice people. Except for few "bad apples", which exist in every society.

Stay safe and be careful!!

I was just joking with the diplomatic speak from the Aussie. I don't think Northern and Southern will be any safer than Western, Central, and Eastern. It is also hard to divide Mindanao that way. Just my 2 cents.

[QUOTE=Firebird;2132641]I am right now in Northern Mindanao and all appears to be quite safe. Local public moving about with ease although there is large concentration of military staff everywhere.

The evening curfew is still maintained.

Last week I landed in Laquindigan airport and was extremely pleased to see more than dozen "Westerner" arriving on the same flight.

Walking about I also see many "Westerner" in malls. So take it from there.

Very nice country and nice people. Except for few "bad apples", which exist in every society.

Stay safe and be careful!![/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Bushes;2132706]I was just joking with the diplomatic speak from the Aussie. I don't think Northern and Southern will be any safer than Western, Central, and Eastern. It is also hard to divide Mindanao that way. Just my 2 cents.[/QUOTE]I've never heard anyone refer to Southern Mindanao. Better to refer to areas as Benign, Dodgy and Dangerous.

[QUOTE=Bushes;2132706]I don't think Northern and Southern will be any safer than Western, Central, and Eastern. It is also hard to divide Mindanao that way. Just my 2 cents.[/QUOTE]I disagree Bushes.

Most of us who live here or visit Mindanao regularly can distinguish between N, S,E,W Mindanao.

I also suggest that Northern Mindanao (centered on Cagayan de Oro City) is reasonably safe although I am wary about travelling too far towards Bukidnon or even Manolo Fortich.

Southern Mindanao (centered on Davao City), is also quite safe.

I would be wary about travelling too far outside of these 2 cities. Western Mindanao has Muslim-based insurgency, and Central and Eastern Mindanao has pockets of National Peoples' Army (NPA) activity. It's possible you could tool around in Central and Eastern Mindanao and have no incidents but there is also the possibility that you will encounter rogue or opportunistic cadres of bad guys and for me that's not worth the risk.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2133024]I disagree Bushes.

Most of us who live here or visit Mindanao regularly can distinguish between N, S,E,W Mindanao.

I also suggest that Northern Mindanao (centered on Cagayan de Oro City) is reasonably safe although I am wary about travelling too far towards Bukidnon or even Manolo Fortich.

Southern Mindanao (centered on Davao City), is also quite safe.

I would be wary about travelling too far outside of these 2 cities. Western Mindanao has Muslim-based insurgency, and Central and Eastern Mindanao has pockets of National Peoples' Army (NPA) activity. It's possible you could tool around in Central and Eastern Mindanao and have no incidents but there is also the possibility that you will encounter rogue or opportunistic cadres of bad guys and for me that's not worth the risk.[/QUOTE]Definitely agree with you Red Kilt.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2133024]I disagree Bushes.

Most of us who live here or visit Mindanao regularly can distinguish between N, S,E,W Mindanao.

I also suggest that Northern Mindanao (centered on Cagayan de Oro City) is reasonably safe although I am wary about travelling too far towards Bukidnon or even Manolo Fortich.

Southern Mindanao (centered on Davao City), is also quite safe.

I would be wary about travelling too far outside of these 2 cities. Western Mindanao has Muslim-based insurgency, and Central and Eastern Mindanao has pockets of National Peoples' Army (NPA) activity. It's possible you could tool around in Central and Eastern Mindanao and have no incidents but there is also the possibility that you will encounter rogue or opportunistic cadres of bad guys and for me that's not worth the risk.[/QUOTE]I'm with RK here. For those of us who live where and for those who travel here frequently, it's fairly easy to distinguish among the compass points.

About 4 days ago I traveled to CDO from Davao for one night and came back the next day. All in all a journey of about 630 km. Though there were three alleged checkpoints, we were only asked to stop at one, and even there were not required to show ID. At the other two, soldiers were merely sitting around, but the cars barely slowed, nor were they required to do so. The good news is that there's lots of road construction improvement activity underway, and the road was noticeably better than the last time I made the trip about four months ago. For those who've never made this journey, it's a beautiful drive, that with the improved road should take 6-6. 5 hours each way.

The bottom line for me is that Davao, CDO and I believe General Santos City are safe and there should be little or no concerns about visiting. As to areas in and around Cotabato, Marawi, and Zamboanga, it's best to stay away.

GE.

I stand corrected. I don't live there. I avoid Mindanao though many have suggested to me that it is safe to visit them because their place in safe. LOL. IMHO, GE's specific city designation is safer.

As with Q55, given the shape of the region, Northern and Southern is hard to designate and maybe why he hasn't heard of Southern. Or only RK has. Then given Western, Central, and Eastern are no go zones, what else is left? Peace for you guys living there if my broad strokes ruffled some feathers. I prefer the numerous non conflict zone destinations. Even when SY sirens sing and try to draw me there.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2133119]The bottom line for me is that Davao, CDO and I believe General Santos City are safe and there should be little or no concerns about visiting. As to areas in and around Cotabato, Marawi, and Zamboanga, it's best to stay away.

GE.[/QUOTE][QUOTE=RedKilt;2133024]I disagree Bushes.

Most of us who live here or visit Mindanao regularly can distinguish between N, S,E,W Mindanao.

I also suggest that Northern Mindanao (centered on Cagayan de Oro City) is reasonably safe although I am wary about travelling too far towards Bukidnon or even Manolo Fortich.

Southern Mindanao (centered on Davao City), is also quite safe.

I would be wary about travelling too far outside of these 2 cities. Western Mindanao has Muslim-based insurgency, and Central and Eastern Mindanao has pockets of National Peoples' Army (NPA) activity. It's possible you could tool around in Central and Eastern Mindanao and have no incidents but there is also the possibility that you will encounter rogue or opportunistic cadres of bad guys and for me that's not worth the risk.[/QUOTE][QUOTE=Questor55;2133000]I've never heard anyone refer to Southern Mindanao. Better to refer to areas as Benign, Dodgy and Dangerous.[/QUOTE]

Hi guys,

Please respond only and PM me please if you have traveled these routes recently and know about the smaller regional airlines. I am looking for Philippines Airasia (subsidiary of Airasia formerly Zest) or any value-priced REGIONAL airline (not PAL) for DIRECT (non-stop) flights to / from these locations. I know that Cebupacificair has direct flight Manila to Bali but the times suck. Experienced replies appreciated.

Hey there,

I'm thinking about heading to the Philippines.

I'm wondering how Philippine girls are with BDSM stuff, like if I wanted to pay a girl to act like my slave for the evening. Is this pretty taboo there like some countries? Or can you get it if you find someone online, or pay the right girl enough?

Any info would be helpful!

[QUOTE=DCups;2133952]Hi guys,

Please respond only and PM me please if you have traveled these routes recently and know about the smaller regional airlines. I am looking for Philippines Airasia (subsidiarys of Airasia formerly Zest) or any value-priced REGIONAL airline (not PAL) for DIRECT (non-stop) flights to / from these locations. I know that Cebupacificair has direct flight Manila to Bali but the times suck. Experienced replies appreciated.[/QUOTE]
DCups. I've replied to your question in the Indonesia thread but in case others have he same enquiry, I'll repeat that the easiest way to get regional airline options is to check the departure airport's wikipaedia page and it will show all departing airlines and their destinations. An easy and quick way to find all options to fly from X to Z

Good to know. Thanks, G.

[QUOTE=Goferring;2134093]DCups. I've replied to your question in the Indonesia thread but in case others have he same enquiry, I'll repeat that the easiest way to get regional airline options is to check the departure airport's wikipaedia page and it will show all departing airlines and their destinations. An easy and quick way to find all options to fly from X to Z[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Lefeu;2134343]I arrived last night from Angeles City for a 3-night stay in Makati. The drive from AC took almost 4 hours, most of it stuck in Manila traffic, for a 90 km ride. Mind boggling! My taxi driver seemed resigned to it, as it is his job. But I could not help but wonder if I can handle a job like that. You can label me spoiled but that's a brutal way to live one's life.[/QUOTE]You would handle it. If you had grown up and lived your entire life in Manila, you wouldn't know anything different. In fact, Manilenos have built up many cultural and linguistic practices around these traffic delays. Meetings often start late--sometimes because of participants' late arrival due to traffic delays. The locals have learned to exploit the situation to justify arriving late. Even some expats and frequent foreign visitors join in this exploitation. I am one of them.

The conventional justification upon arriving late is, "the troppick was very heavy today. " Some shorten it to "it was very troppick today," or even "very troppick today"; the adjective "heavy" is not essential to convey the argument. A close reading would suggest that "today" is also part of the manipulation; since the traffic is slow and heavy almost every day, it should be possible to plan for delay and leave earlier for your destination. So the reference to "today" is sort of a lie that everybody buys into, and since not causing others to lose face is an important Filipino cultural practice, people are beholden not to challenge those who use the traffic excuse.

Another related linguistic convention is the question, "will the meeting push through"? Since, for any given meeting there are late arrivers--because of "troppick," those who host meetings are often pressed to determine whether to continue with the meeting, given the late start time. Hence the question, "should we push though with the meeting"? Perhaps Brits and Aussies have a different experience with this, but in the states I have never heard this combination "push through" used in this way. So, since Filipinos got their English primarily from Americans, it appears they invented this expression. Is this too a product of Manila's heavy traffic?

Meetings starting late and a set of linguistic and cultural practices built around traffic delays obviously are consistent with the much slower pace of activity referred to as "Filipino time." Here then is the upside to heavy traffic and late meetings: life runs more slowly and all the locals are content with it. I have learned to cherish this slower pace of life, and I experience a bit of remorse every time I leave it behind when I return to the states. How can this possibly be worse than the rat race that most of us accept in our Western lives? So, perhaps the frustration Lefeu describes about Manila traffic is as much a product of his own embeddedness in the Western rat race as it is a result of Manila traffic conditions. Next time Lefeu, just take a nap in the taxi; it'll get you recharged that much more quickly for the next round of horizontal recreation.

Within a few years the cross-city elevated skyway may become a reality, connecting the Northern Expressway in Balintawak with the Osmena Highway and EDSA in the south. This may cut down travel time between AC and Makati and get Manila a little closer to the Western rat race.

[QUOTE=DCups;2133952]Hi guys,

Please respond only and PM me please if you have traveled these routes recently and know about the smaller regional airlines. I am looking for Philippines Airasia (subsidiary of Airasia formerly Zest) or any value-priced REGIONAL airline (not PAL) for DIRECT (non-stop) flights to / from these locations. I know that Cebupacificair has direct flight Manila to Bali but the times suck. Experienced replies appreciated.[/QUOTE]Twice over the last year I have wanted to travel MNL. DPS - MNL. I looked at the direct carrier options which were only PAL & Cebu Pacific. The times all sucked. The options I have used have been.

Singapore Airlines MNL-SIN, overnight a airport hotel then SIN-DPS.

I also did a combination of SQ & Tiger to CRK.

Basically it's not happy connection as you may have already discovered.

BD.

[QUOTE=Revere;2132610][URL]nypost.com[/URL]/2018/01/23/ man-gets-life-for-buying-filipino-children-to-use-for-sex-and-porn /.

Should get it!![/QUOTE]Good riddance. Shithead deserves a hell of a lot more than just life in jail.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2135032]Good riddance. Shithead deserves a hell of a lot more than just life in jail.[/QUOTE]Afraid I couldn't follow the link. An error message pops up: Page not found.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2135050]Afraid I couldn't follow the link. An error message pops up: Page not found.[/QUOTE]Yep, I had the same problem. Just go to [URL]nypost.com[/URL] and type the article title into the search field: "man-gets-life-for-buying-filipino-children-to-use-for-sex-and-porn".

This type of stuff has been reported in several news outlets and in some documentaries. Pretty sad but they are trying to stop it. As for the URL, you might need to add "https: in front, though maybe not necessary and remove the blank spaces in front of "man" and after "porn".

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2135050]Afraid I couldn't follow the link. An error message pops up: Page not found.[/QUOTE]

I think the problem is the period at the end of Revere's url. I cut and pasted the address into another browser, deleted the period, and it worked fine.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2135433]Yep, I had the same problem. Just go to [URL]nypost.com[/URL] and type the article title into the search field: "man-gets-life-for-buying-filipino-children-to-use-for-sex-and-porn".[/QUOTE]Or put that title into Google and it comes up in a number of newspapers.

About a year ago I asked one of our esteemed and most prolific ISG contributors for his advice on tipping. He sent me a PM on the matter and I am republishing here. I don't believe that it contains any privileged or confidential information that cannot be shared with our general audience. I pray that this ISG member is not offended but rather feels praised. It is a great piece of analysis and writing and I completely agree with the views he has expressed. In fact it probably should be placed in the Reports of Distinction. So here it is . . . .

"I have been traveling phils for well over a decade, and locals tend not too tip. Its a western culture thing, a holdover to the days when service personell (taxi drivers, waitresses, bellhops, etc) didn't get paid any hourly wage (or alternately very little, which still exists in about half a dozen US states, where the minimum wage for waiting tables is $2-3/ hour while for all other jobs its $7-10/ hour).

Tipping is required in a small handful of places in phils. For example, the Burgos / EDSA gogo bars require both an up-front barfine paid directly to the bar (she will get half of that on her payday) before departing with the girl, and also you negotiate a tip direcly with the girl (typically 1000-3000) to be given in the morning (she will not leave the bar until she has negotiated her morning tip and departure time).

Outside of those places, tipping is neither required nor expected. I can spend a month in phils, moving from Manila to AC to Cebu to Butuan, and never tip once (assuming that I don't barfine in Burgos / EDSA). Nobody will bat an eye or think bad of me. My normal tip for AC or Cebu gogo bar girls, freelance girls, regular girls, province girls, etcetera is p50 (jeep / tryke money). That also includes restaurants, taxi / tryke drivers, the guy who carries my luggage up the stairs at a cheap hotel with no elevator, and anyone else.

Many of us, due to our upbringing (sometimes myself also) cannot stop the urge to tip. We watched our parents do it, and we have been doing it for decades. However I'm appalled by the amounts mentioned both on this board, and in talking to gents in phils at places like Kokomo's in AC. Sometimes they tip even more than the barfine. "She did great with me last night so I sent her off with an extra 2000 this morning". Really. How much was the barfine? "1800". Really! They give odd reasons for the 'need' for tips also: "If you don't tip her, the next time you walk into her bar she will turn her nose up at you. I want her to go with me again if she was good in the sack". News flash fella: She will go with you again just to be able to get another barfine; no tip is required. Proof: I rarely tip more than p50, yet the girls keep returning (not only bargirls, but regular girls -- and I tend to give them about half what other gents pay).

As an example, several of the recent Photogallery girls are from Mindanao (all 22 and under). They are (and have been for years) very happy with p500 overnight, + p14 tip for tryke fare (p7 each way to / from the hotel). Two of the PG regulars of mine are Cebu girls. They know of each other's existence. One comes to me Monday / Wednesday / Friday nights, the other Tues / Thurs / Saturday. Each goes home in the morning with p1000 + p50 for to / from jeep fare. Going on 5 and 7 years with them, mid-20's girls with flat tummies and great asses. Two more in the PG are Manila regulars, going on 4 years with one (age 25 or 26 now) and 12 years with another (age 32). Another pair of lovely figures. They also rotate nights. Morning departure is p1500 + p100 for to / from jeep fare.

If these prices seem too low, or the tip seems too low, ask yourself this question: Why do they keep coming back? Why has none ever complained about the price? Why do they leave messages for me online looking forward to my next visit?

Regarding taxis. I tend to pay the metered fare up to the nearest p10. For example, if the fair is p66, I give the driver p100 bill and ask for 30 in return, leaving him 70 total. That might seem a small tip, however they don't expect tips. Proof? If the fare is 66 and I tell him I only have 60, he will take it and not bat an eye. Reason: the flag-fall was changed by law in all of phils 2 years ago, from 40 to 30. Yet the meters in the taxis were never adjusted. When you step into the cab, the meter sets to 40. If the driver takes you exactly 5 meters and drops you off, you will hand him p40 (the metered amount, which hasn't had a chance to change yet), when in fact you owe him p30. He won't mention your change. He's getting an extra p10 for every fare (a 'tip' from every customer), and most folk don't know that.

Hope this helps. "

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2138989]If these prices seem too low, or the tip seems too low, ask yourself this question: Why do they keep coming back? Why has none ever complained about the price? Why do they leave messages for me online looking forward to my next visit?[/QUOTE]That was my same answer when people would say well they expect you to give them money, they are just too shy to ask. If they haven't overcome their shyness in all these years that they keep coming back, then they need their head examined.

A lot of restaurants that you go to will already have the service charge on the bills so there is no need to add to that.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2138989]Regarding taxis. I tend to pay the metered fare up to the nearest p10. For example, if the fair is p66, I give the driver p100 bill and ask for 30 in return, leaving him 70 total. That might seem a small tip, however they don't expect tips. Proof? If the fare is 66 and I tell him I only have 60, he will take it and not bat an eye. Reason: the flag-fall was changed by law in all of phils 2 years ago, from 40 to 30. Yet the meters in the taxis were never adjusted. When you step into the cab, the meter sets to 40. If the driver takes you exactly 5 meters and drops you off, you will hand him p40 (the metered amount, which hasn't had a chance to change yet), when in fact you owe him p30. He won't mention your change. He's getting an extra p10 for every fare (a 'tip' from every customer), and most folk don't know that.[/QUOTE]Wasn't the flagfall changed back a few months ago? RK?

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2139004]Wasn't the flagfall changed back a few months ago? RK?[/QUOTE]RK? Flagfall? Please amend and update this as you see fit. Thank you Mr. West Coast.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2139040]RK? Flagfall? Please amend and update this as you see fit. Thank you Mr. West Coast.[/QUOTE]I guess WC was asking me for an update Mr Pomp.

Sorry to say that you are incorrect.

The flagfall for Manila meter taxis is 40 php.

It was 30 php for a very short time only.

[URL]http://www.manilatimes.net/ltfrb-approves-taxi-fare-hike/354504/[/URL]

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2139040]RK? Flagfall? Please amend and update this as you see fit. Thank you Mr. West Coast.[/QUOTE]I guess WC was asking me for an update Mr Pomp.

Sorry to say that you are incorrect.

The flagfall for Manila meter taxis is 40 php.

It was 30 php for a relatively short time only. I never got too excited about the 10 php differential anyway

[URL]http://www.manilatimes.net/ltfrb-approves-taxi-fare-hike/354504/[/URL]

[URL]http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/628266/ltfrb-oks-petition-taxi-flagdown-rate-springs-back-to-p40/story/[/URL]

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2138989]I pray that this ISG member is not offended but rather feels praised. [/QUOTE]Why didn't you just ask him if he would be offended or not, instead of praying. I think that's a bit odd.

Maybe you don't believe that it contains any privileged or confidential information but he might have a different opinion himself. And for regular readers of this forum his identity is pretty clear.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2138996]
A lot of restaurants that you go to will already have the service charge on the bills so there is no need to add to that.[/QUOTE]The question is however if the service charge ends up in the owner's pockets or the staff's pockets.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2139100]The question is however if the service charge ends up in the owner's pockets or the staff's pockets.[/QUOTE]Why would that be the customer's concern? The tip could just as well be going into the owner's pocket. Funny that even in buffet restaurants in the USA you are expected to leave a tip. Bich I just served my damn self!

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2139117]Why would that be the customer's concern? [/QUOTE]It's not your concern but you might want to take it into consideration. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a big tipper but I cannot change the system and therefore I always help the staff a little bit to improve their low income.

Just a reminder to visitors who are accustomed to paying a credit charge in their home country that there is no credit card surcharge in the Philippines by law.

There is a specific Republic Act 7394, Article 81 called the "Price Tag Requirement," for the Dept of Trade and industry (DTI) that specifically rules against a CC surcharge.

I was reminded about this when a restaurant in Boracay tried to hit me with a surcharge. I challenged it, and the waitress went to get the owner (who turned out to be a belligerent German).

I quoted RA 7394 (stored in my cellphone) and told him that I wanted the surcharge to appear on my official receipt and that I would be reporting him to the DTI.

Almost immediately my bill was fixed WITHOUT a surcharge.

I have learned that a number of AC hotels add on a surcharge for CC payments and get away with it because guys are unaware that it is illegal.

They all know it's illegal, so if they try it on just remind them that you know about RA 7394.

They will back down. Be careful when you book online through Agoda etc because they often have a surcharge. See if there is an option to pay the hotel direct and avoid that price gouging practice.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2138996]A lot of restaurants that you go to will already have the service charge on the bills so there is no need to add to that.[/QUOTE]Mothafucka. I just had to laugh at myself. After talking all that shit I went to a restaurant here in Pattaya. When I finished and asked for the bill, I also asked them how much it was without looking at it. I handed over that amount plus a tip (what can I say; I am American). As soon as I released the money I see this sign on the counter.

If there is a service charge automatically added on, most places do not include it for take out. If you use a food delivery service, there are a lot more extra charges and the delivery guy expects a tip. It has been that way in many countries including the PI.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2139145]Mothafucka. I just had to laugh at myself. After talking all that shit I went to a restaurant here in Pattaya. When I finished and asked for the bill, I also asked them how much it was without looking at it. I handed over that amount plus a tip (what can I say; I am American). As soon as I released the money I see this sign on the counter.[/QUOTE]Good to hear there is a law. It is also against the rules with the two major credit card companies. To avoid people paying for certain things with a credit card, separate entities are sometimes setup under the same roof so a credit card cannot be used for things sold under a particular entity.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2139129]Just a reminder to visitors who are accustomed to paying a credit charge in their home country that there is no credit card surcharge in the Philippines by law.

There is a specific Republic Act 7394, Article 81 called the "Price Tag Requirement," for the Dept of Trade and industry (DTI) that specifically rules against a CC surcharge.

I was reminded about this when a restaurant in Boracay tried to hit me with a surcharge. I challenged it, and the waitress went to get the owner (who turned out to be a belligerent German).

I quoted RA 7394 (stored in my cellphone) and told him that I wanted the surcharge to appear on my official receipt and that I would be reporting him to the DTI..[/QUOTE]

Good to know.

I usually pay in cash as there is always a 10% discount if settled in cash.

Sometimes it's 15 or 20% (multiple days).

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2139129]Just a reminder to visitors who are accustomed to paying a credit charge in their home country that there is no credit card surcharge in the Philippines by law.

There is a specific Republic Act 7394, Article 81 called the "Price Tag Requirement," for the Dept of Trade and industry (DTI) that specifically rules against a CC surcharge.

I was reminded about this when a restaurant in Boracay tried to hit me with a surcharge. I challenged it, and the waitress went to get the owner (who turned out to be a belligerent German).

I quoted RA 7394 (stored in my cellphone) and told him that I wanted the surcharge to appear on my official receipt and that I would be reporting him to the DTI.

Almost immediately my bill was fixed WITHOUT a surcharge.

I have learned that a number of AC hotels add on a surcharge for CC payments and get away with it because guys are unaware that it is illegal.

They all know it's illegal, so if they try it on just remind them that you know about RA 7394.

They will back down. Be careful when you book online through Agoda etc because they often have a surcharge. See if there is an option to pay the hotel direct and avoid that price gouging practice.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2139129]
There is a specific Republic Act 7394, Article 81 called the "Price Tag Requirement," for the Dept of Trade and industry (DTI) that specifically rules against a CC surcharge.

I was reminded about this when a restaurant in Boracay tried to hit me with a surcharge. I challenged it, and the waitress went to get the owner (who turned out to be a belligerent German).

I quoted RA 7394 (stored in my cellphone) and told him that I wanted the surcharge to appear on my official receipt and that I would be reporting him to the DTI.

I have learned that a number of AC hotels add on a surcharge for CC payments and get away with it because guys are unaware that it is illegal.

They all know it's illegal, so if they try it on just remind them that you know about RA 7394.[/QUOTE]Hi Red Kilt. I know of a couple of Mindanao hotels that offer payments another way. They accept a credit card at the standard promoted rate but accept cash payment at a significant discount. Legal?

[QUOTE=KongKing;2139822]Hi Red Kilt. I know of a couple of Mindanao hotels that offer payments another way. They accept a credit card at the standard promoted rate but accept cash payment at a significant discount. Legal?[/QUOTE]It's still illegal KK.

Viz.

[URL]https://www.pinoymoneytalk.com/cash-credit-card-prices/[/URL]

[URL]http://news.abs-cbn.com/business/10/17/10/credit-card-surcharges-are-unlawful-says-dti[/URL]

Most of the big electrical stores (like SM Appliances, Abenson's etc) try it though. I was offered a different (lower) charge for a cash payment over a card payment for a TV recently. I told the guy that card was the same as cash so I should get the cheaper price, and he consulted his boss and agreed to give me the so-called cash price using my CC.

I think the manager decided I was a consumer who knew my rights. Note that all of these transactions are done with a smile and a friendly demeanor. It is not wise to be surly and angry and belligerent. Taking the smooth way and quoting the facts usually results in a successful outcome.

Using a credit card in Clone Central? OK.

It's heavy raining in Cebu from yesterday. Signal # 2. Storm is approaching to south Philippine.

So I am thinking of taking a Filipina to a foreign destination just to give her a thrill. Saigon comes to mind but I am open to anything that is workable. I am budget minded. Has anybody done anything like this before and what are the issues I need to consider and troubleshoot?

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2140692]So I am thinking of taking a Filipina to a foreign destination just to give her a thrill. Saigon comes to mind but I am open to anything that is workable. I am budget minded. Has anybody done anything like this before and what are the issues I need to consider and troubleshoot?[/QUOTE]Lots of Filipinos working there. Saigon is no more. Ho Chi Minh City is the name. Not so much English and more expensive.

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2140692]So I am thinking of taking a Filipina to a foreign destination just to give her a thrill. Saigon comes to mind but I am open to anything that is workable. I am budget minded. Has anybody done anything like this before and what are the issues I need to consider and troubleshoot?[/QUOTE]Done this many times but best PM for details as easier Pomp.

However be forewarned that getting her out of the country is likely the hardest task of the process. I have been OK / lucky but I was well planned even when I took 2 pinays to Thailand but others have found their aswa offloaded. Most recently one of my favs was despite having return tickets and hotel booking etc (4 days in Singapore) bit she had been to Vietnam earlier.

Friends of mine at Cebu Pac speak of the happening all the time.

PM is easier.

[QUOTE=PedroMorales;2139866]Using a credit card in Clone Central? OK.[/QUOTE]Of course. No bravery required.

It is best with credit cards that offer or claim protection against unauthorized uses. AE used to be the best but they have slid in the past couple decades to the same level as the other cards. It is just a PIA to sort things out.

[QUOTE=PedroMorales;2139866]Using a credit card in Clone Central? OK.[/QUOTE].

FYI.

I have been in Manila, Angeles, Samar and Cebu recently and am surprised with 4 g and lte service in 80% plus of the time. Wasn't like this a short time ago. I have been able to have pretty fast internet on my cell phone.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2140941]I have been in Manila, Angeles, Samar and Cebu recently and am surprised with 4 g and lte service in 80% plus of the time. Wasn't like this a short time ago. I have been able to have pretty fast internet on my cell phone.[/QUOTE]I've been experiencing fast 4 g / LTE service in the least likely of places (and sometimes slow service in places I'd expect it to be fast) about 1 year now. I think I reported a year ago sitting in a McDonalds in the province one morning having a coffee. I was pulling 3 and 4 bars (out of 5), and I ran several speed tests, typically running 40-60 mbps down, and 15-ish up. I no longer depend on hotel / condo wifi (unless they literally are advertising or getting 50 down), it can be faster hotspotting off my phone than using the hotel / condo wifi. One place that oddly has slow hotel wifi city-wide is Cebu city. While I might only be hotspotting at 5 mbps (ok for browsing), the hotel wifi is often running < 1 download (often webpages timing out on the wifi). Its easier to just load my SIM card with a month's unlimited data and hotspot to web browse. There is a 'fair-use' policy with Globe and Smart that limits you to 800 mb use every 24 hours running midnight to midnight, but as I don't use the Internet to stream vids, I rarely have a problem with that.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2140941]FYI.

I have been in Manila, Angeles, Samar and Cebu recently and am surprised with 4 g and lte service in 80% plus of the time. Wasn't like this a short time ago. I have been able to have pretty fast internet on my cell phone.[/QUOTE]Well I can't get shit on Fields, especially at Kokomos.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2141019]Well I can't get shit on Fields, especially at Kokomos.[/QUOTE]You might need the updated LTE sim. I have a friend who could not get 4 g service until she updated her SIM card to a LTE sim.

2 ways to update.

1. Buy new LTE sim with new cp number.

2. To keep your old number, go to your provider store and they will update it with new LTE sim and transfer your old number. Please note, provider store only.

There is another way to do it online but I don't know anything about it nor would I take the risk.

WC1,

Very true. I am sitting a Cebu hotel at the moment and using my 4 g cp service to post. The hotel WiFi is so slow!

I think on my future trips I will just bring an iPhone 6 Plus and leave the tablet home.

DNA testing is really expensive in Philippines. 13-15 k and the swabs are sent out to approved labs in 1st world countries. Also very few locations.

I just did one to shut the mother up. I knew I wasn't the father. In USA and other countries you can order online kit from easydna dot com for $119. I ordered one when I was in US and it was overnighted to me. 3 sets of swabs with good directions on use and return envelope.

I brought the swabs with me to PH and swabbed the baby, mother and myself all in her sight. Put the swabs in separate envelopes and into the main return envelope. Had the choice to either drop the envelope in to the US mail upon my return or to FedEx it. I chose to FedEx it and it was there in 2 days at the cost of P1809. Within a week you will get the results by email. I got mine within 2 days of their receipt of the samples.

This is not court approved testing as it does not have approved legal chain of custody evidence. But it is enough proof for most people for determination of paternity.

I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?

[QUOTE=PedroMorales;2140711]Lots of Filipinos working there. Saigon is no more. Ho Chi Minh City is the name. Not so much English and more expensive.[/QUOTE]The locals still call it Saigon and it will always be called that. Some Filipinos work there as English teachers. Expensive? That's going to depend on what's on your shopping list. But the question I was asking was about encountering problems taking Filipinas out of the country. If you have info then share it but if you don't. . . . .

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2141617]The locals still call it Saigon and it will always be called that. Some Filipinos work there as English teachers. Expensive? That's going to depend on what's on your shopping list. But the question I was asking was about encountering problems taking Filipinas out of the country. If you have info then share it but if you don't.[/QUOTE]Is what locals it. They sometimes refer to the old part as Saigon. HCM City is much bigger than Saigon was at the time of the Vietnam War. As Vietnam is an ASEAN country, Pinoays don't need visas. As your knowledge on Vietnam is almost non-existent, you should probably skip it.

[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?[/QUOTE]My only experience is going to Phil and taking the girl out with me.

Will depend on her confidence level etc. If she knows her rights then she will be fine. If she gets intimidated then they will ask her lots of questions and encourage her not to go. She will need to have available funds to prove she can support herself.

Do you know her well? Have you had experiences with her before?

BD.

[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?[/QUOTE]PM me as BD is correct but then it depends on where she goes, is she with you, can you prove you know her and the immigration officer who can den her but will let rich person accused of murder etc with an HDO or a look out bulletin posted leave LOL.

[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true?[/QUOTE]It could be a dicey situation depending on many factors including age, socioeconomic status, traveling experience, current employment, etc. Many pinays are denied boarding depending on the immigration officers attitude. Better if you accompany her.

[QUOTE=PedroMorales;2141627] As your knowledge on Vietnam is almost non-existent, you should probably skip it.[/QUOTE]There's no reason to be insulting, Mr. Morales. I lived as a resident in Saigon in the years before Dien Bien Phu. This was probably before you were born. I was fluent in Vietnamese. That faculty has waned but nevertheless much is still retained. However the question on the table is transporting a lovely Filipina out of the country which you have not addressed in two posts on this subject. Using your own words, "As your knowledge on (this subject) is almost non-existent, you should probably skip it.

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[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?[/QUOTE]I agree with Buko Max, below, that it could be a dicey situation, and it is better that you accompany her through Philippines departure procedures. For a first time overseas trip she will likely be interrogated thoroughly specially if she is travelling on her own. Get to immigration early, not just 2 hours before the flight. She will need to provide evidence that she can sustain herself for the period overseas.

I took a Filipina to Singapore for her first time overseas trip a year or two ago. Mactan Immigration required her to fill in a questionnaire then she was questioned by two separate officers. The Filipina before her was rejected to a stream of tears. After half an hour there still was some doubt and an immigration official then came over to me to independently check the facts, and in particular how long I had known the lady in question. When I showed them that I had purchased six months previously the return ticket for two this appeared to be the deciding factor. We were the last to board the plane.

Filipinos / Filipina do not require a visa for Malaysia if staying for less than 30 days. Take a look at this for more information:

[URL]http://www.immigration.gov.ph/faqs/travel-req[/URL]

KongKing.

[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? [/QUOTE]I've done this 4 times with 3 different girls. All had virgin passports and had never traveled outside the country. The first was 11 years ago. We had just met in Manila when I was there on business and decided to take her with me to Hong Kong for a few days before traveling home. She already had a passport and I never even thought of issues, and there wern't any. She sailed through immigration.

The second was 6 years ago again to Hong Kong. She had a passport with a German visa from some other guy, but hadn't ever left the country. I had heard of problems leaving the Philippines so had prepared her with all our travel documents and reservations including her school ID. Gave her several hundred dollars to carry as show money. We had previously traveled to Boracay together and had pictures of us together there on her phone and my laptop. I also modified the hotel reservation to show her name in addition to mine on the reservation. After her first questioning, she was pulled into an office just behind the emigration booths. I was standing a few meters away not knowing exactly what to do when another officer saw me and asked If I were with her. That officer then suggested I go inside with her. They questioned both of us about how we met and how long we knew each other. Both of us had to sign some documents that we would return to the Philippines. They let me change the document saying that I was returning directly to my country. We were questioned about 20 minutes.

The third time was three years ago. Again a virgin passport and we were going to Hong Kong. We had known each other a couple of years and had seen her 4 times including trips to Bohol and Palawan. Made sure she had all our pictures on her phone along with travel documents and several hundred dollars and her student ID. The female officer questioned her nicely and asked me to come over and asked me how long we knew each other etc. She then wanted to see pictures from Palawan. The girl was looking for them on her tablet, and not finding them right way, and I pulled them up on my laptop about the same time as she found them. The officer then just smiled and stamped her passport and let us go.

The last time was about a year ago with the same girl. We were going to Malaysia and Cambodia. Made all the same preparations. The female officer questioning her was not friendly. I was a few meters away and the officer turned to look at me once, but never called me over. She looked at several pictures on her phone of us together at different places. After about 5 minutes she stamped her passport and let her through.

One other precaution was to have the girls dress conservatively tending towards a professional business look.

I would be very hesitant of having someone with a virgin passport trying to go it alone from Manila. I haven't seen any hard statistics on how many are refused exit, but I wouldn't take the chance.

Good luck!

WilBel. You have received info from other posters. The main point you will see is that in most successful cases, the Pinay is traveling with her sponsor. This, IMHO, is the most important point. I would pick her up in the Philippines and travel with her. It will only help and protect what you have spent on your long trip. If need be, just pick up a Malaysia Philippines round trip for yourself. You can then get some pictures together to show.

The second point is her age. It is better if she is over, let us say, 25. I am not sure the exact cutoff or if it currently makes any difference.

The documentation is important but easy. The show money does not have to be that much if she is travelling with you.

Years ago, I used to get two signature travellers checks and just have her sign on some of them. I could easily cancel or report them as lost if she bolts. The institution where I got the TC did not require the second signatory to be present during purchase.

Hong Kong and Singapore are, IMHO, tougher ports. Also, it is best to approach the counter together and present your travel documents together. To show that you are travelling together. And be present if there is additional screening. Many young girls are not used to being questioned and are already very nervous and excited about the trip. She might stumble and get mixed up and panic. I have actually accompanied Pinays doing visa runs and I know and have been told, my documentations make it easier for the Pinay to enter some countries. I also helps that I am much older and can stare down people! LOL

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;2141789]PM me as BD is correct but then it depends on where she goes, is she with you, can you prove you know her and the immigration officer who can den her but will let rich person accused of murder etc with an HDO or a look out bulletin posted leave LOL.[/QUOTE][QUOTE=BrainDrain;2141783]My only experience is going to Phil and taking the girl out with me.

Will depend on her confidence level etc. If she knows her rights then she will be fine. If she gets intimidated then they will ask her lots of questions and encourage her not to go. She will need to have available funds to prove she can support herself.

Do you know her well? Have you had experiences with her before?

BD.[/QUOTE][QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=PedroMorales;2141995]And happy Vietnamese New Year. Over and out.

Battle of Dien Bien Phu began on 13 March 1954 and ended on 7 May 1954, 64 years ago, making anyone living in Saigon then over 80 years of age.[/QUOTE]Wouldn't that make them at least 63 years old or 64 come March 13th? Not really a question. Just a statement. Unless they aged quicker in Saigon.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2142044]Wouldn't that make them at least 63 years old or 64 come March 13th? Not really a question. Just a statement. Unless they aged quicker in Saigon.[/QUOTE]Yeah. But then he would have been speaking fluent Vietnamese at birth. Plus he said he lived there the years before that.

[QUOTE=Paul2020;2141985]The first was 11 years ago. We had just met in Manila when I was there on business and decided to take her with me to Hong Kong for a few days before traveling home. She already had a passport and I never even thought of issues, and there wern't any. She sailed through immigration.

One other precaution was to have the girls dress conservatively tending towards a professional business look.

I would be very hesitant of having someone with a virgin passport trying to go it alone from Manila. I haven't seen any hard statistics on how many are refused exit, but I wouldn't take the chance.

Good luck![/QUOTE]11 years ago IMHO it was much easier than now. 15 years was even easier, no questions even to Dubai. Now the immigration people are nastier, more jealous and like to create issues. Dressing nicely not like a tart is a give me and my fav wear longer dress and jacket with limited make up (sorry Pomp forget to add that to the PM).

Hey guys I'll be heading over there in a few days I have one thing I need clarification on. Is it true that the Philippines is pretty honest when it comes to renting motorcycles and scooters and you will not get scammed like you would let say in Thailand or is it pretty much the same throughout Southeast Asia. If it is more honest does anybody have any recommendations to a place to rent a scooter or motorcycle in Manila.

You must be nuts to want to ride a scooter or motorcycle in Manila.

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2142278]Hey guys I'll be heading over there in a few days I have one thing I need clarification on. Is it true that the Philippines is pretty honest when it comes to renting motorcycles and scooters and you will not get scammed like you would let say in Thailand or is it pretty much the same throughout Southeast Asia. If it is more honest does anybody have any recommendations to a place to rent a scooter or motorcycle in Manila.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2142278]Hey guys I'll be heading over there in a few days I have one thing I need clarification on. Is it true that the Philippines is pretty honest when it comes to renting motorcycles and scooters and you will not get scammed like you would let say in Thailand or is it pretty much the same throughout Southeast Asia. If it is more honest does anybody have any recommendations to a place to rent a scooter or motorcycle in Manila.[/QUOTE]I would'nt drive in manila if they gave me a free motorbike. Its insane there. Your life is worth some taxie fares.

Thanks for everyone who gave their honest opinion, feedback and suggestions. I'm really overwhelmed with the response.

My lady was successful with a new passport, traveling alone, Cebu to Tokyo. She was well prepared (money, photos, etc.) and kept her cool with a lot of questions from a female immigration officer.

Your situation may be different. Japan requires a visa approval in advance. I'm guessing Malaysia does not. Good luck.

[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=DCups;2142394]You must be nuts to want to ride a scooter or motorcycle in Manila.[/QUOTE]I was thinking of getting one in manila and explore the rural area. Is the driving in the Philippines worse then Thailand?

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2142278]Hey guys I'll be heading over there in a few days I have one thing I need clarification on. Is it true that the Philippines is pretty honest when it comes to renting motorcycles and scooters and you will not get scammed like you would let say in Thailand or is it pretty much the same throughout Southeast Asia. If it is more honest does anybody have any recommendations to a place to rent a scooter or motorcycle in Manila.[/QUOTE]Renting scooters is easy and no scams (that I know of) except some charge a lot more than others so shop around and weekly rates are better. Never drove Manila but it looks easier than Thailand just drive semi aggressive and you'll fit right in. You will need a international license which you can get at AAA.

Go for it.

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2142590]I was thinking of getting one in manila and explore the rural area. Is the driving in the Philippines worse then Thailand?[/QUOTE]No. I'the say it's about the same. No enforcement of traffic rules. Drivers ruled by pure impulse with no prior thought. Traffic lanes fairly meaningless. Riders who have never had to pass a driving test. Other drivers indifferent to the presence of bikes on the road.

The biggest difference between the Philippines and Thailand in this regard is the quality of the road infrastructure. Thailand's roads, even in many rural areas, are far superior, so dodging potholes, lousy drainage, rough pavement and road debris is a bit more challenging here than it is there. The flip side of that is that the roads are of such poor quality and so badly maintained that maintaining any sort of real speed isn't possible for any vehicles, so the likelihood of high speed accidents is reduced. After years of using a road bike here, I finally gave it up one night when a large truck going in the opposite direction from me, decided he'the really rather have my lane, and I had about 5 seconds to find a place to lay the bike down on a badly lit road with no shoulder. The truck driver could see me clearly. He just didn't give a damn. I finally decided that enough was enough, sold the bike and took to using my car full time.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2142595]No. I'the say it's about the same. No enforcement of traffic rules. Drivers ruled by pure impulse with no prior thought. Traffic lanes fairly meaningless. Riders who have never had to pass a driving test. Other drivers indifferent to the presence of bikes on the road.

The biggest difference between the Philippines and Thailand in this regard is the quality of the road infrastructure. Thailand's roads, even in many rural areas, are far superior, so dodging potholes, lousy drainage, rough pavement and road debris is a bit more challenging here than it is there. The flip side of that is that the roads are of such poor quality and so badly maintained that maintaining any sort of real speed isn't possible for any vehicles, so the likelihood of high speed accidents is reduced. After years of using a road bike here, I finally gave it up one night when a large truck going in the opposite direction from me, decided he'the really rather have my lane, and I had about 5 seconds to find a place to lay the bike down on a badly lit road with no shoulder. The truck driver could see me clearly. He just didn't give a damn. I finally decided that enough was enough, sold the bike and took to using my car full time.

GE.[/QUOTE]Sounds like a death trap and a fun time, feels like my style. Thanks for the info in scams and the roads compared to Thailand. If I survived Vietnam Thailand hopefully Philippines should be easy.

[QUOTE=Socker;2142592]You will need a international license which you can get at AAA.
Go for it.[/QUOTE]Why do you need an international drivers licence?

I know that road agencies in our home country make them available, mainly as a translation service for non-english speaking countries. What legal standing would an AAA document have that is superior to a government issued licence?

I always have just used my home country licence when renting and driving in UK, USA, Z & Philippines.

BD.

In the PI you can get anything you want.

Cost vary a lot but to make sure you get it right the first time and of high quality I would just buy a drivers license in the PI it's about 1500 pesos.

Your choices are to purchase a high quality fake or go down to the office with your info and pay one of those guys in front to stand in line and get an authentic one for you.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2143002]Why do you need an international drivers licence?

I know that road agencies in our home country make them available, mainly as a translation service for non-english speaking countries. What legal standing would an AAA document have that is superior to a government issued licence?

I always have just used my home country licence when renting and driving in UK, USA, Z & Philippines.

BD.[/QUOTE]An IDP is an official translation of your US license (making it easier for the cop to write out a ticket).

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2143187]An IDP is an official translation of your US license (making it easier for the cop to write out a ticket).[/QUOTE]So it is better to get cited for what they pulled you over for AND not having a license?

[QUOTE=WilBel;2141581]I'm planning to take a Pinay girl for a trip to Malaysia. She will be traveling from Manila to Malaysia and I'll be traveling from Ireland to Malaysia. When I told this she told that she may need to provide proper explanation and / or documentation to the Immigration Officer in the airport else they may deny the trip. Is that true? I'll be booking the round trip ticket and hotel for her in Kuala Lumpur. Some senior members kindly guide me how to handle this?[/QUOTE]I did this last year, traveling from the UK, meeting in KL. The first challenge was actually getting out of the Phils, as she did not have a copy of my Credit card, so they would not allow her to leave. So I had to buy her a same day ticket at a much larger cost. Sending her a copy of my passport and my credit card. Note, I have known her for 6+ years and trust her with my paperwork. Don't send things to people you don't know so well.

Also, she had a copy of the hotel reservation in my name, and I arranged for the hotel to pick her up in the hotel car. As well as some show money.

She had NO problems getting into Malaysia.

We'll possibly be doing it again later this year.

Good luck.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2143215]So it is better to get cited for what they pulled you over for AND not having a license?[/QUOTE]So in short when you get a international driver's license you're always told to carry the IDP and carry your driver's license from your home country it is also recommended to carry your passport or at least a copy of it. It is not recommended not carrying your license you'll probably get in too deep sh*t depending what country you are in. Some countries hold international driver's permit or license whatever you like to call it like gold example I'm in Japan for a month currently and they need an international driver's license. When I was in Thailand last month they didn't care can gave my the motorcycle. It always recommended to have all your papers in order to even if you are not held to the normal standards.

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2143243]When I was in Thailand last month they didn't care can gave my the motorcycle.[/QUOTE]They will rent you the bike with no problem, but if the police stop you then you will get a ticket if you do not have the proper documents. Another board member who is a friend of mine was over here in Pattaya a few months ago. The cops pulled him over and gave him a ticket. He had an international license, but did not have the motorcycle endorsement.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2143290]They will rent you the bike with no problem, but if the police stop you then you will get a ticket if you do not have the proper documents. Another board member who is a friend of mine was over here in Pattaya a few months ago. The cops pulled him over and gave him a ticket. He had an international license, but did not have the motorcycle endorsement.[/QUOTE]"It always recommended to have all your papers in order to even if you are not held to the normal standards. " That means from the people renting it to the police to any federal police etc. If you don't have a motorcycle endorsement or an A type of license you not legally allowed to ride in your country and I think, please do not quote me but it translates to their country. So not terribly shocking that he got a ticket if he doesn't have a motorcycle endorsement or the proper papers on him. Thailand's and extremely dangerous place to learn how to ride even if you're riding a scooter with an automatic clutch he should be pretty happy he survived riding over there. I have 10 years experience riding a motorcycle in even over there it was a little bit challenging.

[QUOTE=EBoardbuilder;2143435]"It always recommended to have all your papers in order to even if you are not held to the normal standards. " That means from the people renting it to the police to any federal police etc. If you don't have a motorcycle endorsement or an A type of license you not legally allowed to ride in your country and I think, please do not quote me but it translates to their country. So not terribly shocking that he got a ticket if he doesn't have a motorcycle endorsement or the proper papers on him. Thailand's and extremely dangerous place to learn how to ride even if you're riding a scooter with an automatic clutch he should be pretty happy he survived riding over there. I have 10 years experience riding a motorcycle in even over there it was a little bit challenging.[/QUOTE]An Australian woman was hit with $50,000 of medical bills in Thailand after she was involved in an accident. Her insurer refused to pay due to her not having a motorcycle licence.

Make sure you have a Pinay Permit for fucking the sweet young things as well. Don't want to get a violation for being a sex tourist either.

BD.

[QUOTE=PedroMorales;2141995] Battle of Dien Bien Phu began on 13 March 1954 and ended on 7 May 1954, 64 years ago, making anyone living in Saigon then over 80 years of age.[/QUOTE]You need some math help. Yeah, I remember the disheartened French soldiers marching past my house on what was then La Rue de Massige. So let's not have a pissin' contest about who knows what about Saigon, Vietnam.

So I been on this site for years and have done my traveling all over. Last year I did the Philippines, Dominican Republic, and Colombia (which I do at least two to three times a year). So I have a friend who is having a rough time. Found out his girl was cheating on him a month before their wedding and has been lost over since. It will be three years this year since he has even had sex with a girl. He is my best friends and knows about all the stuff I do when I go out of country, I even show him my videos and pictures.

So he just told me today he want's to go out of country for new years eve and experience life like me. So I am looking to take him between Thailand and the Philippines. This is the plan, if it's the Philippines that we choose the plan would be to get there on Dec 26th. Hit the spots in there and AC for the first few days, find a few girls that we want to party with on New Years Eve. Then the day after maybe take those girls and go hit a island somewhere at a villa. For the rest of the trip.

I have a good list of girls from when I was there last year who are already asking to see me. But I don't know what islands are good to go to. Or if this is a good plan to take a first timer on. Any help from members would be amazing. All the things I have learned from this site has helped me over my last 9 years of doing this.

[QUOTE=Cbear13;2144290]So I been on this site for years and have done my traveling all over. Last year I did the Philippines, Dominican Republic, and Colombia (which I do at least two to three times a year). So I have a friend who is having a rough time. Found out his girl was cheating on him a month before their wedding and has been lost over since. It will be three years this year since he has even had sex with a girl. He is my best friends and knows about all the stuff I do when I go out of country, I even show him my videos and pictures.

So he just told me today he want's to go out of country for new years eve and experience life like me. So I am looking to take him between Thailand and the Philippines. This is the plan, if it's the Philippines that we choose the plan would be to get there on Dec 26th. Hit the spots in there and AC for the first few days, find a few girls that we want to party with on New Years Eve. Then the day after maybe take those girls and go hit a island somewhere at a villa. For the rest of the trip.

I have a good list of girls from when I was there last year who are already asking to see me. But I don't know what islands are good to go to. Or if this is a good plan to take a first timer on. Any help from members would be amazing. All the things I have learned from this site has helped me over my last 9 years of doing this.[/QUOTE]The Philippines is a catholic country and many of the bar girls go home to their provinces to be with their families for Christmas. Not saying you can't have a good time in AC at that time, but just something to consider.

Thailand might be better option at Christmas time and the girls are prettier, if less affectionate than filipinas.

Not sure where you are from, but DR and Colombia appears lot closer to you and cheaper. And if you have been there before multiple times and other places, you know the ropes already. Less of an adventure and not a steep a learning curve.

As mentioned, many will go home during Christmas in the Philippines.

And, you appear to have a lot of questions and light on the field reports and details, FWIW.

[QUOTE=Cbear13;2144290] Last year I did the Philippines, Dominican Republic, and Colombia (which I do at least two to three times a year).

So I am looking to take him between Thailand and the Philippines. This is the plan, if it's the Philippines that we choose the plan would be to get there on Dec 26th. Hit the spots in there and AC for the first few days, find a few girls that we want to party with on New Years Eve. Then the day after maybe take those girls and go hit a island somewhere at a villa. For the rest of the trip.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Bushes;2144434]

As mentioned, many will go home during Christmas in the Philippines.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=EngineDriver;2144403]The Philippines is a catholic country and many of the bar girls go home to their provinces to be with their families for Christmas. Not saying you can't have a good time in AC at that time, but just something to consider. [/QUOTE] I realize the OP was discussing Christmas in the Philippines and he received good advice (see above), but FWIW Christmas is 10 months away so it's more important for other tourists to be concerned about the up-coming Easter aka Holy Week in the Philippines, particularly in the big cities.

My experience is that filipinos treat Holy Week (as it is called here) with far more religious seriousness than Christmas.

You can expect everything to gradually start shutting down from Monday onwards. Most businesses will have skeleton staff on Wednesday; everyone skedaddles to the probins on Thursday and Friday most cities are ghost towns. The airports are clogged during Holy Week and for the first 2 days of the following week after Easter Sunday.

Anyone planning a vacation in Philippines at that time should be warned, and reconsider.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2144851]Anyone planning a vacation in Philippines at that time should be warned, and reconsider.[/QUOTE]Thanks for the heads-up, I forgot all about Holy Week and will plan next month's visit accordingly.

Anyone have any luck getting numbers from Starbucks baristas and so on?

I recommend you print up some of your own cards and then slip one to the object of your attraction. It's worked well for me in the past.

[QUOTE=ImAGuy;2145874]Anyone have any luck getting numbers from Starbucks baristas and so on?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=ImAGuy;2145874]Anyone have any luck getting numbers from Starbucks baristas and so on?[/QUOTE]Women are women and people too. Why would you need luck getting their numbers based on their jobs? You act like chicks working at Starbucks are movie stars or something.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2144851]

My experience is that filipinos treat Holy Week (as it is called here) with far more religious seriousness than Christmas. Anyone planning a vacation in Philippines at that time should be warned, and reconsider.[/QUOTE]Many times during Holy Week have I witnessed a young Filipino carrying a heavy cross emulating Jesus, mile after mile flagellating himself with a metal chain such that his back was raw and bloody. When he reached his destination he would be nailed to the cross and crucified though this I have never seen; only heard about.

Hi there,

I'm wondering and would like to ask you guys. I support several girls a bit. Small money make them already happy. Have a student now (20 yo) who I also support a bit. Met her already and know her for some months now. She isn't fake but she is of course happy to get a bit support from me.

My question now. How much do such a student need or have normally from her parents? She lives in a dead-end City (Bislig City which is 5th income class). She not really ask for big money but I'm just wondering what you guys are thinking about it or what experiences you got already?

Thanks for any reply.

[QUOTE=ImAGuy;2145874]Anyone have any luck getting numbers from Starbucks baristas and so on?[/QUOTE]Such a strategy as described by XMan (such as handing out your card or contact details) may have worked in the past but it is risky these days if you are not extremely careful about who you target.

You need to have some interaction of a positive nature from any girl / woman before you indiscriminately hand out your details just because you like the look of someone. Many women today are much more savvy about harassment and it could backfire on you.

I know 2 examples: one in SM Manila where a girl reported a guy to security who tried this on and the security guy merely told him to stop doing it so it was not a big deal. A more serious example occurred in Ayala Mall in Cebu 4 or 5 years ago where the target girl told her parents about this creepy guy who had chatted her up in the mall and shared his card, and they reported him to the police who set up a sting using his number to teach him a lesson (and no doubt gather some additional remuneration).

In theory it sounds good but you need to use your common sense and good judgement. As has been said many times here before by me and others, a very large percentage of the 50 million filipinas living here (including baristas) would be highly insulted by such a stunt if it came out of the blue.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2146304]Such a strategy as described by XMan (such as handing out your card or contact details) may have worked in the past but it is risky these days if you are not extremely careful about who you target.

You need to have some interaction of a positive nature from any girl / woman before you indiscriminately hand out your details just because you like the look of someone. Many women today are much more savvy about harassment and it could backfire on you.

I know 2 examples: one in SM Manila where a girl reported a guy to security who tried this on and the security guy merely told him to stop doing it so it was not a big deal. A more serious example occurred in Ayala Mall in Cebu 4 or 5 years ago where the target girl told her parents about this creepy guy who had chatted her up in the mall and shared his card, and they reported him to the police who set up a sting using his number to teach him a lesson (and no doubt gather some additional remuneration).

In theory it sounds good but you need to use your common sense and good judgement. As has been said many times here before by me and others, a very large percentage of the 50 million filipinas living here (including baristas) would be highly insulted by such a stunt if it came out of the blue.[/QUOTE]RK, you, GE and Mr E are the voices of reason. The problem is that the one week millionaires on a mongering trip start to confuse reality with fantasy. After banging 20 chicks in a week, and having never come into contact with people not in the business, all Filipinas start to look like prostitutes.

[QUOTE=Sid70;2146285]Hi there,

I'm wondering and would like to ask you guys. I support several girls a bit. Small money make them already happy. Have a student now (20 yo) who I also support a bit. Met her already and know her for some months now. She isn't fake but she is of course happy to get a bit support from me.

My question now. How much do such a student need or have normally from her parents? She lives in a dead-end City (Bislig City which is 5th income class). She not really ask for big money but I'm just wondering what you guys are thinking about it or what experiences you got already?

Thanks for any reply.[/QUOTE]I can't directly answer your questions.


Most family unit will need 12-20 k a month to survive. It takes 3 or more family members working to pay the bills and to buy food. It is a crock when people say a family can survive on minimum wages of 8 k a month. In a poor area most workers will not make minimum wages, some will be paid 100-150 pesos a day.

Add on tuition, daily transportation to and from school, books, uniforms, lunch and any other costs to the monthly budget. In some cases there might be a loss of income if she quits her job to go to school.

I known of a few girls who would commute from Tarlac to work in Angeles everyday. Their daily salary was around 300 pesos but to and from transport was 200 a day. They netted 100 pesos a day! In my questioning of the logic in this, they all replied that the 100 pesos a day made a huge difference for the family.

Possibly ask her what is the cost of the family budget to get an idea.

Btw, what is big money? To some here it is $100!

[QUOTE=Sid70;2146285]Hi there,

I'm wondering and would like to ask you guys. I support several girls a bit. Small money make them already happy. Have a student now (20 yo) who I also support a bit. Met her already and know her for some months now. She isn't fake but she is of course happy to get a bit support from me.

My question now. How much do such a student need or have normally from her parents? She lives in a dead-end City (Bislig City which is 5th income class). She not really ask for big money but I'm just wondering what you guys are thinking about it or what experiences you got already?

Thanks for any reply.[/QUOTE]Normally, such a student gets no allowance from her parents. Any amount of money you give her will not be enough, and it will increase weekly, fortnightly, monthly or however often. Why? Once her friends and family discover that she has a foreign cash cow with free "unlimited" money, they will advise her to grow her income with requests for a bit more each time. Not long after, she will need additional cash injections from your accounts for this and that emergency. You will be amazed at how accident prone and unhealthy she and her family will become once you open the free cash pipeline.

The best policy is to give her nothing when you are not physically spending time with her. Almost everyone in this country is a foreign cash remittance addict. This addiction is worse than the methamphetamine addiction epidemic that death squads are working feverishly every night to snuff out. The girl is not asking for big money, so do not give it to her.

Spare her the unhealthy addiction to free money from abroad, as she is likely to drop out of school once she decides that an education is not necessary for a well-paid career as an internet girlfriend to several charitable old foreigners. In the end, your money will ruin her by setting her on a path to dependence on charitable mongers.

If you really want to help her, pay the tuition directly to the school. That will more likely to create an incentive for her to continue her studies. Any money you send directly to her will likely end up paying for a room in a short-time hotel and a couple of liters of Red Horse for the trike driver boyfriend who can finally impregnate her thanks to your generous financial support.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2146528]If you really want to help her, pay the tuition directly to the school. That will more likely to create an incentive for her to continue her studies. Any money you send directly to her will likely end up paying for a room in a short-time hotel and a couple of liters of Red Horse for the trike driver boyfriend who can finally impregnate her thanks to your generous financial support.[/QUOTE]I agree with CM Sid and paid my ladies fees direct to the school and saw the 'assessment' to show me how much is owed and what for. I emailed the Registrar also so all was clear and no disputes over the amount.

As for 'allowance'? Up to you but PM or use other applications and I can give you some idea but should not be much and also tie the support to grade performance (not bed performance LOL) as this means they generally do well. Friends have done this and the girl does well, is focused and got good grades.

I thought the target was a gal employed at Starbucks. Nevertheless, point taken. As for the creepy guy, don't be creepy.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2146304]Such a strategy as described by XMan (such as handing out your card or contact details) may have worked in the past but it is risky these days if you are not extremely careful about who you target.

You need to have some interaction of a positive nature from any girl / woman before you indiscriminately hand out your details just because you like the look of someone. Many women today are much more savvy about harassment and it could backfire on you.

I know 2 examples: one in SM Manila where a girl reported a guy to security who tried this on and the security guy merely told him to stop doing it so it was not a big deal. A more serious example occurred in Ayala Mall in Cebu 4 or 5 years ago where the target girl told her parents about this creepy guy who had chatted her up in the mall and shared his card, and they reported him to the police who set up a sting using his number to teach him a lesson (and no doubt gather some additional remuneration).

In theory it sounds good but you need to use your common sense and good judgement. As has been said many times here before by me and others, a very large percentage of the 50 million filipinas living here (including baristas) would be highly insulted by such a stunt if it came out of the blue.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2146528]Normally, such a student gets no allowance from her parents. Any amount of money you give her will not be enough, and it will increase weekly, fortnightly, monthly or however often. Why? Once her friends and family discover that she has a foreign cash cow with free "unlimited" money, they will advise her to grow her income with requests for a bit more each time. Not long after, she will need additional cash injections from your accounts for this and that emergency. You will be amazed at how accident prone and unhealthy she and her family will become once you open the free cash pipeline.

The best policy is to give her nothing when you are not physically spending time with her. Almost everyone in this country is a foreign cash remittance addict. This addiction is worse than the methamphetamine addiction epidemic that death squads are working feverishly every night to snuff out. The girl is not asking for big money, so do not give it to her.

Spare her the unhealthy addiction to free money from abroad, as she is likely to drop out of school once she decides that an education is not necessary for a well-paid career as an internet girlfriend to several charitable old foreigners. In the end, your money will ruin her by setting her on a path to dependence on charitable mongers.

If you really want to help her, pay the tuition directly to the school. That will more likely to create an incentive for her to continue her studies. Any money you send directly to her will likely end up paying for a room in a short-time hotel and a couple of liters of Red Horse for the trike driver boyfriend who can finally impregnate her thanks to your generous financial support.[/QUOTE]So So spot on, too bad the only way to learn this is to go ahead and drag yourself through it.

Chances are you will not head the advise given so to answer your question about 15,000 pesos monthly is what the starter support is at for someone gifted enough to be sponsored.

Some parameters.

Low education or non career job make 150-300 pesos per day.

College graduate starter (girl like BPO or call center) depends on location outskirts city 9000 per month same job say makati 21000 per month so depends where she lives.

Has anyone noticed a significant uptick in the availability and quality of deep-thoating locally? Full reports to follow but every encounter I've had since arriving in Cebu has included deep-thoating. And not just the suck a bit, gag a bit variety but often full face fucking.

Am I just on a lucky streak or this become the new standard practice in the Philippines?

You really come up with some great stuff. You ought to write a book.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2146528]SNIP

Any money you send directly to her will likely end up paying for a room in a short-time hotel and a couple of liters of Red Horse for the trike driver boyfriend who can finally impregnate her thanks to your generous financial support.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Goferring;2152049]Has anyone noticed a significant uptick in the availability and quality of deep-thoating locally? Full reports to follow but every encounter I've had since arriving in Cebu has included deep-thoating. And not just the suck a bit, gag a bit variety but often full face fucking.

Am I just on a lucky streak or this become the new standard practice in the Philippines?[/QUOTE]Nope. I haven't seen it. Maybe the Pinays you've been banging have been watching too much porn!

[QUOTE=EngineDriver;2152643]Nope. I haven't seen it. Maybe the Pinays you've been banging have been watching too much porn![/QUOTE]Maybe I need to stop hanging around dirty women and get back to the good side of town.

Then again, maybe not. . . .

[QUOTE=Transporter;2146753]So So spot on, too bad the only way to learn this is to go ahead and drag yourself through it.[/QUOTE]The sad part is sometimes you drag yourself through it but the educational value is nil because the mistake you were supposed to learn from turned out to be fatal.

[URL]https://nltimes.nl/2016/06/30/dutchman-gunned-philippine-island[/URL]

Mogwai. IMHO, some of the generalizations apply to most women I know. For example

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2153604]- It is true that the Filipinas are always insisting on the foreign boyfriend or husband being honest and loyal, while they themselves are untrustworthy cheaters and liars.

Populist politicians are doing the same thing and maybe that's why I don't like him because I hate populism.[/QUOTE]The reason that especially US women are not animalistic is because they think their pussy is not golden but made of diamonds.

[QUOTE=Bushes;2153617]Mogwai. IMHO, some of the generalizations apply to most women I know. For example
The reason that especially US women are not animalistic is because they think their pussy is not golden but made of diamonds.[/QUOTE]Well at least you say 'most women' and not 'all women'.

I cannot judge US women because I'm not American and I've never been to the US, but are there really no normal nice women to be found there without an attitude? I think that's hard to believe.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2153928]Well at least you say 'most women' and not 'all women'.

I cannot judge US women because I'm not American and I've never been to the US, but are there really no normal nice women to be found there without an attitude? I think that's hard to believe.[/QUOTE]And to add to that, most guys on this board say that all the American women are ugly, overweight, etc. Funny thing that when I go to places like Colombia, Brazil, Philippines, the women in those countries talk about how beautiful American women are. Same when guys say if you get divorced she is going to take everything from you. Well I got divorced and didn't have a lawyer. My wife had a lawyer and I still ended up getting almost everything. So my experience is different from that of most here. There are plenty of normal nice women to be found in the USA, but maybe they are out of some guys' league or either they are intimidated by them.

A buddy of mine was in Thailand last week and he said you know man, the chicks here are just like the chicks back home. I said of course they are. But most guys have not been in contact with the bullshit put out by women in other countries long so they are able to deal with it more for the time being. The bullshit from the chicks back home they have dealt with all their lives and are fed up with it. But stick around any place long enough and you will realize that the chicks in one place are the same as the chicks back home. You just have comparably more money here which makes it easier to switch from girl to girl and tolerate the BS more.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2153928]I cannot judge US women because I'm not American and I've never been to the US, but are there really no normal nice women to be found there without an attitude? [/QUOTE]You mean in my 19-25 year-old cutie preferred group who are willing to bang me on first sight after coffee just to try and make a baby with my eyes? Not so much. Ladies in the US who are outside that age range can be nice (there are plenty), but several things begin to happen:

1) Weight gain.

2) Sense of entitlement.

For these reasons, there are large groups of women (the majority in any country) that I am *completely* uninterested in. RK and others here have written that the larger part of pinay society (a group I am *completely* uninterested in) does not share in some of the rotten qualities of our targeted ladies in phils. While this might be statistically correct (hope to address that in detail later), it leaves large numbers of those ladies who have those qualities to make me a "target-rich environment".

Mogs your thought is well-intended. Of course there are plenty of nice ladies in the US (and elsewhere). However regardless of their temperament, there are few (read: almost none) who are my age, attractive (just look thru the dating websites here for ladies who are 40+, and good luck finding a looker -- she doesn't need a dating website), single, and not snotty. Attractive single women don't stay attractive as they age (very few), and those that stay attractive begin quickly to understand her commodity: she's in huge demand, and the sense of entitlement comes with that.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2153946]Funny thing that when I go to places like Colombia, Brazil, Philippines, the women in those countries talk about how beautiful American women are [/QUOTE]Perhaps because their exposure is to Hollywood movies (women chosen for their looks and then heavily made-up) and photo-brushed fashion and glamour magazine covers. Women are no less immune from the stereotype of light-skinned beauty than are men. Interesting that some of us, after experiences in the Third World, end up turning that stereotype on its head.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2153946]You just have comparably more money here which makes it easier to switch from girl to girl and tolerate the BS more.[/QUOTE](1) Yes, a significant factor in her interest in me is my money.

(2) I don't care.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2154104]Perhaps because their exposure is to Hollywood movies (women chosen for their looks and then heavily made-up) and photo-brushed fashion and glamour magazine covers. Women are no less immune from the stereotype of light-skinned beauty than are men. Interesting that some of us, after experiences in the Third World, end up turning that stereotype on its head.[/QUOTE]They have bought into the Hollywood Madison Avenue glamour.

Long flowing wavy blonde, brunette or red hair.

Beautiful makeup.

Manicured and pedicured.

Designer clothes.

Long legs with stockings.

CFM shoes.

Striking poses.

Incredible love scenes.

Oh crap! I bought into that too! And I pay and pay and pay.

[QUOTE=RubioTonto;2154119](1) Yes, a significant factor in her interest in me is my money.

(2) I don't care.[/QUOTE]I agree and we should be thankful for such an exchange. I wood put my money on that too.

[QUOTE=RubioTonto;2154119](1) Yes, a significant factor in her interest in me is my money.

(2) I don't care.[/QUOTE]Great prescription for happiness, at least in the short-term. Or is it happenis, quoting Hutsori, who borrowed it from a movie?

This chick that I used to mess with years ago in Papanga sent me a message in facebook. I haven't talked to her in years. She says "Saw your fb. You've got twins. " I said I am a grandfather now. She says, "Makes me confused. You don't have a wife but with children?" I am the one fucking confused. With all the mfs running around there that have kids but are not married, why is it a big shock for me to have a grown kid and not be married?

Then I tell her that I will be in Manila tomorrow and ask her to come. She says we are not together. You just want fun. I don't. I'm old for that. Well b1 ch if you are old you should be trying to have as much fun as you can. What the hell are you holding out for? You are just going to get older ALONE (without any fun).

No. They are not all loose women.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2154123]Great prescription for happiness, at least in the short-term. Or is it happenis, quoting Hutsori, who borrowed it from a movie?[/QUOTE]I'm sure there are hundreds of porn flicks with hapenis in the title. Probably most of them gay.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;2155699]I'm sure there are hundreds of porn flicks with hapenis in the title. Probably most of them gay.[/QUOTE]I had in mind "Hector and the search for happiness. " Not in the title but in lines given to an older French woman character. Central characters are all British. A good flick without a hint of porn. I thought a cultured guy like you had surely seen the movie and borrowed the expression.

Most girls, anywhere in the world, prefer to date and marry someone from their own race or country. The statistics on interracial marriage in most countries would back this up.

When a poor Filipina dates and marries a foreigner, it is usually for financial reasons and the chance to escape from her difficult existence in the Philippines. A residency permit in another country means not just a better life for her, but more importantly, for her family as well. As RK has mentioned on a number of occasions, Filipina girls from good families have absolutely no interest in marrying a foreigner. I would say that most girls you see on PL or DIA are there for financial or immigration reasons, even though they all might not be hookers. They are certainly not from well off families.

When a silly punter decides to date or marry a hooker, he should understand that he will always be way down on her list of priorities. Her priorities, in order of importance are:

1. Her children.

2. Her parents.

3. Her siblings.

4. Her Filipino boyfriend or husband.

5. The foreign boyfriend or husband.

That's how it was, that's how it is and that's how it will always be. So along as you are happy to be Priority number 5, then please continue to send her money each month.

[QUOTE=EngineDriver;2157540]
When a silly punter decides to date or marry a hooker, he should understand that he will always be way down on her list of priorities. Her priorities, in order of importance are:
1. Her children.
2. Her parents.
3. Her siblings.
4. Her Filipino boyfriend or husband.
5. The foreign boyfriend or husband.
[/QUOTE]You forgot her cell phone that will most likely be at no. 5, so before the foreign boyfriend, or even higher on the list.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2157611]You forgot her cell phone that will most likely be at no. 5, so before the foreign boyfriend, or even higher on the list.[/QUOTE]Now that's funny. The truth often is.

[QUOTE=EngineDriver;2157540]When a silly punter decides to date or marry a hooker, he should understand that he will always be way down on her list of priorities. Her priorities, in order of importance are:

1. Her children.

2. Her parents.

3. Her siblings.

4. Her Filipino boyfriend or husband.

5. The foreign boyfriend or husband.

That's how it was, that's how it is and that's how it will always be. So along as you are happy to be Priority number 5, then please continue to send her money each month.[/QUOTE]You forgot the money!

She will sell herself, her parents, children, anyone and anything for the sake of money. You don't know Filipinos well, if you consider they will give their last peso to parents or sister. They are selfish, and they think about themselves in the first place.

Today's news discloses that Grab has bought out Uber in Philippines and Uber will no longer continue.

Note the letter sent to all subscribers today.

UBER.

We want to share some news with you. Uber will be combining our operations with Grab to lead you in the next chapter of ridesharing in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.

What this means for you: we will be transitioning our services over to the Grab platform by April 8, 2018, so all requests after that date should be made from the Grab app.

However, you can still use the Uber app in more than 80 countries around the world.

What you should do:

Download the Grab app.

Create an account.

For more information on this transition, please visit Uber or Grab.

Thank you, and we look forward to continuing to serve your city with Grab.

Regards,

Uber.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2158575]Today's news discloses that Grab has bought out Uber in Philippines and Uber will no longer continue.[/QUOTE]I thought that was already a done deal. My buddy sent me an article about it last month. The article also said that Uber is talking about doing in Initial Public Offering next year which I will be all over.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2158575]Today's news discloses that Grab has bought out Uber in Philippines and Uber will no longer continue.

Note the letter sent to all subscribers today.

UBER.

We want to share some news with you. Uber will be combining our operations with Grab to lead you in the next chapter of ridesharing in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.
.[/QUOTE]Uber failed.

To understand the cash economy of SE Asia.

To understand the SE asia market.

To pay off the right people especially in Philippines.

My understanding is that they now have about 25% of the Grab entity.

I was using Grab anyway.

BD.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2158604]I thought that was already a done deal.[/QUOTE]I asked the girl that left this morning if she preferred Uber or Grab and she said that they were the same company.

Shows how up to date some of the financial reporting is when they are out gunned by a 20 year-old PYT. . . LOL.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2158610]Uber failed.

To understand the cash economy of SE Asia.

To understand the SE asia market.

To pay off the right people especially in Philippines.

My understanding is that they now have about 25% of the Grab entity.

I was using Grab anyway.

BD.[/QUOTE]Cash was not a problem. There has been the option to use cash for a while. Maybe the account has to be set up with a card though.

[QUOTE=Goferring;2158612]I asked the girl that left this morning if she preferred Uber or Grab and she said that they were the same company.

Shows how up to date some of the financial reporting is when they are out gunned by a 20 year-old PYT. . . LOL.[/QUOTE]Taxi drivers have been talking about Uber folding for a while so she would be semi-informed (or half right), as most filipinas are renowned for.

Now it's official, (well, after April 8 that is).

Interestingly enough, on my last 6 rides, all to the same destination, I used Grab twice and regular taxis 4 times. The regular taxi fare was two-thirds the price of the Grab price on each occasion, and the regular taxis were clean, new and the driver courteous too. I will be sticking to using the regular taxis when I can.

I meant to thank you for this reply sooner, but got sidetracked. Pretty much what Engine Driver said.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2146304]Such a strategy as described by XMan (such as handing out your card or contact details) may have worked in the past but it is risky these days if you are not extremely careful about who you target.

You need to have some interaction of a positive nature from any girl / woman before you indiscriminately hand out your details just because you like the look of someone. Many women today are much more savvy about harassment and it could backfire on you.

I know 2 examples: one in SM Manila where a girl reported a guy to security who tried this on and the security guy merely told him to stop doing it so it was not a big deal. A more serious example occurred in Ayala Mall in Cebu 4 or 5 years ago where the target girl told her parents about this creepy guy who had chatted her up in the mall and shared his card, and they reported him to the police who set up a sting using his number to teach him a lesson (and no doubt gather some additional remuneration).

In theory it sounds good but you need to use your common sense and good judgement. As has been said many times here before by me and others, a very large percentage of the 50 million filipinas living here (including baristas) would be highly insulted by such a stunt if it came out of the blue.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2158624]Cash was not a problem. There has been the option to use cash for a while. Maybe the account has to be set up with a card though.[/QUOTE]Eventually they took cash, initially it was CCard only.

Also note your screenshot shows peso amount with a $ sign. If you were a filipino, only living and working in RP and Grab app displays peso as Peso and the other Uber app kind of looks 'adapted" to peso naturally the Grab app will be more comfortable to use. Uber simply did not understand what was needed.

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2159290]Also note your screenshot shows peso amount with a $ sign. If you were a filipino, only living and working in RP and Grab app displays peso as Peso and the other Uber app kind of looks 'adapted" to peso naturally the Grab app will be more comfortable to use. Uber simply did not understand what was needed.[/QUOTE]That was a screenshot from when I was in Colombia the other day when I posted it, so it was Colombian Pesos. I was just trying to show the ability to pay in cash. Here is one from PI that shows P for pesos.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2159313]That was a screenshot from when I was in Colombia the other day when I posted it, so it was Colombian Pesos. I was just trying to show the ability to pay in cash. Here is one from PI that shows P for pesos.[/QUOTE]OK, let's get back to mongering.

I do like sending the girl home in a Grab instead of trike. I don't like that the Grab drivers soon learns that a booking for Mr Brain Drain often is for a single female. I need two Grab accounts. A legitimate account and a mongering account.

Grab has some AI that predicts where I want to go. SO it is no good that when I'm leaving work at 5 pm in the afternoon it is suggesting I go to Perimeter bars.

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2159454]OK, let's get back to mongering.

I do like sending the girl home in a Grab instead of trike. I don't like that the Grab drivers soon learns that a booking for Mr Brain Drain often is for a single female. I need two Grab accounts. A legitimate account and a mongering account.

Grab has some AI that predicts where I want to go. SO it is no good that when I'm leaving work at 5 pm in the afternoon it is suggesting I go to Perimeter bars.

BD.[/QUOTE]Quite a lot of girls are using Grab themselves (in Manila anyway) so why don't you let them order a cab themselves? And then you can give them cash for the fare.
And if they are not already using Grab you can ask them to download the app.

This article does not say where this chap contracted his bug but The Phils certainly could be likely. Be careful out there guys.

[URL]https://www.yahoo.com/news/super-gonorrhea-man-first-ever-201826422.html[/URL]

[QUOTE=Eaglestar;2159974]This article does not say where this chap contracted his bug but The Phils certainly could be likely. Be careful out there guys.

[URL]https://www.yahoo.com/news/super-gonorrhea-man-first-ever-201826422.html[/URL][/QUOTE]I know there is always a risk with anyone. However, the chances can increase especially with the number of freelancers out there to catch a STD. I know for a fact that a bar girl that failed her hygiene exam was seen the next evening in Hi-Society.

[QUOTE=AsianLover2;2159990]I know there is always a risk with anyone. However, the chances can increase especially with the number of freelancers out there to catch a STD. I know for a fact that a bar girl that failed her hygiene exam was seen the next evening in Hi-Society.[/QUOTE]Nothing new here. Bar girls who fail hygiene routinely, work through their "tulo" (clap) by freelancing at discos and online. Bareback mongers who fuck them get a little something extra with the discount rate. There is a good chance that the new "super clap" that recently debuted in the UK, traveled to London aboard the monger's dick on a flight out of Manila. Again, nothing surprising here, as it is expected that in mongering districts like P. Burgos and AC, mongers carrying different strains of the clap from around the globe converge on and fuck the same pussies bareback allowing the bacteria to exchange DNA coded for multi-drug resistance. Think of Pinay pussy as an international clearinghouse for cocks and their passengers.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2160941]Nothing new here. Bar girls who fail hygiene routinely, work through their "tulo" (clap) by freelancing at discos and online.[/QUOTE]I think they never fail the hygiene exam. The bar managers can let them pass the exam by handing over some tea money to the doctor.
So they keep on working in the bar if they have an STD.

I wanted to see whether anybody else has recently experienced what I encountered when I left Manila for the states via Incheon. Coming through Incheon via Delta and Korean Air to Manila two weeks ago I found the immigration clearance routing a little inefficient, but nothing like the intrusive experience I experienced returning to the states this Monday morning. American-bound transfer passengers were subjected to a grilling by a gaggle of officious young Korean women. They asked numerous questions about the purpose of my visit and what I was carrying with me, but especially wanted to know about all the electronics I was carrying. They wanted to know when I had purchased each, whether I had purchased them myself, or whether anybody had given me any of them to carry. They seemed especially focused on tablets and laptops. Only those headed to the states got this special attention. I asked my questioner tersely about the reason for all the attention. She said they were responding to requests from the USA Transportation Security Agency. The same process was repeated by the same female inquisitors for everybody at the gate check-in a few hours later. Nobody was permitted through without a special security sticker on the back of the passport.

So I am wondering if anybody experienced the same accelerated treatment in Tokyo or other transfer points to the USA, or whether this is just Korean hierarchical bureaucracy run amok. Returning through Dallas-Fort Worth, I noticed that immigration clearance was very perfunctory and all self-reported and automated, but the security checkpoint seemed to be swarming with TSA agents and a very deliberate dog-sniffing team.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2165325]I wanted to see whether anybody else has recently experienced what I encountered when I left Manila for the states via Incheon. Coming through Incheon via Delta and Korean Air to Manila two weeks ago I found the immigration clearance routing a little inefficient, but nothing like the intrusive experience I experienced returning to the states this Monday morning. American-bound transfer passengers were subjected to a grilling by a gaggle of officious young Korean women. They asked numerous questions about the purpose of my visit and what I was carrying with me, but especially wanted to know about all the electronics I was carrying. .. The same process was repeated by the same female inquisitors for everybody at the gate check-in a few hours later. Nobody was permitted through without a special security sticker on the back of the passport.

So I am wondering if anybody experienced the same accelerated treatment in Tokyo or other transfer points to the USA, or whether this is just Korean hierarchical bureaucracy run amok. Returning through Dallas-Fort Worth, I noticed that immigration clearance was very perfunctory and all self-reported and automated, but the security checkpoint seemed to be swarming with TSA agents and a very deliberate dog-sniffing team.[/QUOTE]I had a similar experience at MNL Terminal 2 when flying PAL from MNL to HNL. The security guard, female, says it began in Feb. No question about electronics, cause I did not have any. Her questions were standard security questions about packing the bags, were the bags ever out of sight, etc. So, it happened in Manila / PAL airlines also.

My first post. I'm planning a visit to the Philippines in a couple of months for some are&are. How and when is it best to change US $ into P $. I can convert in states but sure don't want to travel with large amount of cash either US $ or P $s. How about paying in us $, do they take it and do you get P $ as change? Consider exchange fees. Thanks. FT.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2165325]I wanted to see whether anybody else has recently experienced what I encountered when I left Manila for the states via Incheon. [/QUOTE]I returned a few weeks ago on Asiana from Manila to the USA via Inchon. No problems whatsoever. A cursory check of boarding pass for the flight to the USA (that I received in Manila) and my passport. Had lots of electronics in my carry on, and didn't have to open any bag other than take my laptop out of my backpack. There were signs about increased security because of the Olympics (they were over by the time I traveled), but I didn't notice any increased measures.

Late last year returned on Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, and again just a cursory check of the boarding pass and passport.

Often I return via Tokyo on United and have never encountered a problem at the transfer point.

[QUOTE=ForkTruck;2165667]My first post. I'm planning a visit to the Philippines in a couple of months for some are&are. How and when is it best to change US $ into P $. I can convert in states but sure don't want to travel with large amount of cash either US $ or P $s. How about paying in us $, do they take it and do you get P $ as change? Consider exchange fees. Thanks. FT.[/QUOTE]Bring some USD and change on the ground in Philippines. DO NOT use your at home money changers. You will be ripped off.

Also, just withdraw money via ATM P10,000 at a time, P250 fee. The direct exchange rate this way is always better than any airport counter or USA bank.

There is also a strict (but un-monitored) limit of Philippine Peso which can be carried in or out of the country. I think it's P10,000 so it really is useless to change money outside of Philippines.

Most people over-estimate the amount of local currency they will need. Suggest paying your hotel room via credit card which is the biggest drain on currency.

BD.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2165712]Also, just withdraw money via ATM P10,000 at a time, P250 fee. The direct exchange rate this way is always better than any airport counter or USA bank.[/QUOTE]I have found exchange rates in most international airports to be nearly usury. Like 30 pesos to one dollar in Tokyo and other airports. The one exception is the three terminals in Manila. On my most recent trip they were giving 51.95 to $1. This was compared to 52.1 at money changers in the city. Considering the 250 peso charge for local ATMs, the NAIA airport exchange rate is better. The other difficulty is having to carry a bunch of currency from your home country. The ATM route that BD recommends is a good compromise.

Welcome to the new normal.

All US bound flights are now subject to enhanced security. On top of the bag and water bottle screening at the gate.

This began rolling out in the fall last year in some areas and all classes and passengers were affected. The questions were obnoxious or stupid or rhetorical but I refrained from cracking any jokes because I guess they were designed for my safety.

In some areas, in town check-in facilities for US bound flights were closed. In a way, I can understand this because of the security incidents in the States. Guess it is even worse overseas. At least I can bring my tablet and laptop and phone on board. However, I think they are not as good as El al.

[QUOTE=SoapySmsith;2165325]I wanted to see whether anybody else has recently experienced what I encountered when I left Manila for the states via Incheon. Coming through Incheon via Delta and Korean Air to Manila two weeks ago I found the immigration clearance routing a little inefficient, but nothing like the intrusive experience I experienced returning to the states this Monday morning. American-bound transfer passengers were subjected to a grilling by a gaggle of officious young Korean women. They asked numerous questions about the purpose of my visit and what I was carrying with me, but especially wanted to know about all the electronics I was carrying. They wanted to know when I had purchased each, whether I had purchased them myself, or whether anybody had given me any of them to carry. They seemed especially focused on tablets and laptops. Only those headed to the states got this special attention. I asked my questioner tersely about the reason for all the attention. She said they were responding to requests from the USA Transportation Security Agency. The same process was repeated by the same female inquisitors for everybody at the gate check-in a few hours later. Nobody was permitted through without a special security sticker on the back of the passport.

So I am wondering if anybody experienced the same accelerated treatment in Tokyo or other transfer points to the USA, or whether this is just Korean hierarchical bureaucracy run amok. Returning through Dallas-Fort Worth, I noticed that immigration clearance was very perfunctory and all self-reported and automated, but the security checkpoint seemed to be swarming with TSA agents and a very deliberate dog-sniffing team.[/QUOTE]

It has been discussed here and on ther tgreads. RTFF.

Basically, avoid exchanging in US. Get your exchange on arrival. Either USD cash to local or just withdraw at ATM. FX at airport varies so don't exchange everything. Best way is to use a no foreign transaction fee credit card and ATM card. Second best is cash in large denomination and exchange in town at a shop or money changer. Watch for slight of hand magic tricks.

[QUOTE=ForkTruck;2165667]My first post. I'm planning a visit to the Philippines in a couple of months for some are&are. How and when is it best to change US $ into P $. I can convert in states but sure don't want to travel with large amount of cash either US $ or P $s. How about paying in us $, do they take it and do you get P $ as change? Consider exchange fees. Thanks. FT.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=ForkTruck;2165667]My first post. I'm planning a visit to the Philippines in a couple of months for some are&are. How and when is it best to change US $ into P $. I can convert in states but sure don't want to travel with large amount of cash either US $ or P $s. How about paying in us $, do they take it and do you get P $ as change? Consider exchange fees. Thanks. FT.[/QUOTE]The airport money changers give you a decent rate. Change enough for taxi and food needs until you can get a better local money changer. BTW, it is best to bring new crisp $100 bills to change. You can change one at the airport to get by on.

Personally I send money to myself via Cebuana for my needs instead of bring large sums of cash.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2165325] Returning through Dallas-Fort Worth, I noticed that immigration clearance was very perfunctory and all self-reported and automated, but the security checkpoint seemed to be swarming with TSA agents and a very deliberate dog-sniffing team.[/QUOTE]I also went through customs and immigration DFW in recent weeks on my way back from KUL, via DOH. I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of an American citizen to "self-report" through the automated terminals, and not even encounter an immigration agent. Handed my print out to the customs agent who asked "Bringing anything back?" I said "No" and he waved me on. Its a big difference from my youth, when I was regularly hassled by customs and immigration agents. I got swarmed by a group of customs agents once, after I walked off the plane at DFW. Another time at IAH, I had USDA agents go through my bag and confiscate the Black Pudding I was bringing back from the UK. Why was the USDA in the middle of customs and immigration back in the 80's?

But back to my recent experience. I also got run through the wringer changing planes through Qatar. After the initial painless and quick screening one must go through to transfer at DOH, I was forced to go through yet another screening at the boarding gate. I swear I had to show my passport and boarding pass no less than five times between the time I approached the gate and the time I stepped onto the jetway. At one point I had to take out all my electronics (phone and tablet) and after a screening of those items, they were sealed in a thick plastic bag, until I got on the plane (it was a pain getting the plastic bag open without a sharp item). I got to carry my carry on, passport, boarding pass and sealed bag of electronics to the next screening point. There I got to remove my shoes, belt, and even thing else just like in the USA, and go through an X-ray machine, and then get a pat down. Then I got to show my passport and boarding card again just to get to the boarding lounge. Every staff member I passed had to see my passport and boarding pass. Oh, and that bottle of Evian I paid dearly for so I would always have water handy while I was on a 15 hour flight? Though it was unopened, security screening told me I couldn't take it on board. I had to throw it away. Today I checked my credit card statement, and that bottle of water cost me $9. 95 USD (I was confused by the exchange rate of the Qatari Riyal, so I had no idea what a ripoff that airport was). The guy who sat next to me on the way back said that Qatar was on the State Department's shit list and that is why the screening needed to be so rigourous. I swore I would never pass through DOH again, but it sounds like you can incur the same hassle transiting through other places, as well. It was just back in late 2016, I passed through TPE on the way home, and I was hustled through screening by an impatient Chinese lady in less than a minute. I'll probably fly EVA to Asia again, for the reason.

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;2165712]Also, just withdraw money via ATM P10,000 at a time, P250 fee. The direct exchange rate this way is always better than any airport counter or USA bank.[/QUOTE]I'm not disagreeing at all, but it's worth pointing out many foreign banks will charge their own fee for this so that should be factored in. I think my bank, Wells Fargo, charges US $5 which, on top of Php250 by the local ATM, is nearly US $10 for a US $192 withdrawal. One thing (for newbies to the Philippines) is finding an ATM that will dispense that amount of money AND is actually online. Not so bad in the big cities though I even had problems with HSBC at Mall of Asia more than once. Travelling to smaller cities or provinces? Be prepared *before* you need it!

[QUOTE=Eszpresszo;2165807]I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of an American citizen to "self-report" through the automated terminals, and not even encounter an immigration agent. Handed my print out to the customs agent who asked "Bringing anything back?"[/QUOTE]Actually it was the immigration agent that you handed your form to. They did away with the customs part of the process since they scan your checked bag before you get it and they can always do a random search of your carry-on, plus like you said, they have the dogs.

[QUOTE=Eszpresszo;2165807]I also went through customs and immigration DFW in recent weeks on my way back from KUL, via DOH. I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of an American citizen to "self-report" through the automated terminals, and not even encounter an immigration agent. Handed my print out to the customs agent who asked "Bringing anything back?" I said "No" and he waved me on. Its a big difference from my youth, when I was regularly hassled by customs and immigration agents. I got swarmed by a group of customs agents once, after I walked off the plane at DFW. Another time at IAH, I had USDA agents go through my bag and confiscate the Black Pudding I was bringing back from the UK. Why was the USDA in the middle of customs and immigration back in the 80's?

But back to my recent experience. I also got run through the wringer changing planes through Qatar. After the initial painless and quick screening one must go through to transfer at DOH, I was forced to go through yet another screening at the boarding gate. I swear I had to show my passport and boarding pass no less than five times between the time I approached the gate and the time I stepped onto the jetway. At one point I had to take out all my electronics (phone and tablet) and after a screening of those items, they were sealed in a thick plastic bag, until I got on the plane (it was a pain getting the plastic bag open without a sharp item). I got to carry my carry on, passport, boarding pass and sealed bag of electronics to the next screening point. There I got to remove my shoes, belt, and even thing else just like in the USA, and go through an X-ray machine, and then get a pat down. Then I got to show my passport and boarding card again just to get to the boarding lounge. Every staff member I passed had to see my passport and boarding pass. Oh, and that bottle of Evian I paid dearly for so I would always have water handy while I was on a 15 hour flight? Though it was unopened, security screening told me I couldn't take it on board. I had to throw it away. Today I checked my credit card statement, and that bottle of water cost me $9. 95 USD (I was confused by the exchange rate of the Qatari Riyal, so I had no idea what a ripoff that airport was). The guy who sat next to me on the way back said that Qatar was on the State Department's shit list and that is why the screening needed to be so rigourous. I swore I would never pass through DOH again, but it sounds like you can incur the same hassle transiting through other places, as well. It was just back in late 2016, I passed through TPE on the way home, and I was hustled through screening by an impatient Chinese lady in less than a minute. I'll probably fly EVA to Asia again, for the reason.[/QUOTE]And thank God for the over caution and extra screening so you can live to tell about it.

Thanks for the advice. I traveled in Europe before the Euro change, always interesting having to get local currency when changing countries. Of course the Italian ATMs seldom worked. LOL. S. E. Asia is the same now as Europe was then. FT.

[QUOTE=Eszpresszo;2165807] always have water handy while I was on a 15 hour flight? Though it was unopened, security screening told me I couldn't take it on board. I had to throw it away. Today I checked my credit card statement, and that bottle of water cost me $9. 95 USD (I was confused by the exchange rate of the Qatari Riyal, so I had no idea what a ripoff that airport was). The guy who sat next to me on the way back said that Qatar was on the State Department's shit list and that is why the screening needed to be so rigourous.[/QUOTE]Its the new normal. Why you whining? In order for flights to fly from those countries to the USA they need to screen you again before you get on the plane, despite having gone through security already. Where you been dude? This has been happening for months after Trump puit the kabash on Muslim countries.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2166084]Actually it was the immigration agent that you handed your form to. They did away with the customs part of the process since they scan your checked bag before you get it and they can always do a random search of your carry-on, plus like you said, they have the dogs.[/QUOTE]No dude. It was customs. Immigration was greeting the foreign visitors in a different section of the building. Bear in mind dude, I was there, you weren't. And I didn't mention anything in my post about dogs. If you can't bother to read posts before you comment on them, and don't realize that you can't retroactively place yourself in some other person's experiences, you need to quit posting a while. The fact that you compulsively post replies to others posts all day long, speaks volumes about your credibility.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2165721]... The other difficulty is having to carry a bunch of currency from your home country. The ATM route that BD recommends is a good compromise.[/QUOTE]I have also used remittance services. [URL]Worldremit.com[/URL] is what I used but there are others. Low fees, pick up any bank or LBC or similar place, transfer in immediate and I have never had any problems.

I have actually beat the rate all in using this than the cash ATM withdraw method and limits are higher.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2166086]And thank God for the over caution and extra screening so you can live to tell about it.[/QUOTE]I'm good with just about whatever security they want to have.

I oppose the security theater that actually exists.

[QUOTE=Eszpresszo;2166212]No dude. It was customs. Immigration was greeting the foreign visitors in a different section of the building. Bear in mind dude, I was there, you weren't. And I didn't mention anything in my post about dogs. If you can't bother to read posts before you comment on them, and don't realize that you can't retroactively place yourself in some other person's experiences, you need to quit posting a while. The fact that you compulsively post replies to others posts all day long, speaks volumes about your credibility.[/QUOTE]You are correct; I was not there. And technically an immigration officer and a customs officer are the same people these days. One day they can perform immigration duties and another day they can perform customs duties.

When you enter the USA, you are in what is called a Federal Inspection Station (FIS). At major airports in the USA, this consists of two parts (and I think it is the same for most countries): 1. Immigration. 2. Customs. Immigration was always the part before you pick your luggage up. You had to show them your passport and your customs declaration. They asked you if you were bringing anything back with you. Then they marked on the form whether you needed to go for secondary inspection or not. These days you scan the passport yourself and the computer primarily decides if you are to go to secondary. After that you hand your passport and form to the immigration officer who collects it, may ask questions, and sends you on your way.

Customs was always after you pick your luggage up. As I was saying, they have done away with the customs part of the process, so that you are only in contact with the person that has traditionally been the immigration officer. Now it is more like Philippines where if you have nothing to declare you can just keep walking out after you get your bags instead of stopping to talk with a customs officer. Before, the customs officer never asked questions and he did not need to see your passport. All they had to do was read the designation that the immigration officer had written on your form in order to know whether to send you to secondary or not. These days, if you have to be sent to secondary then when you hand your form in, the immigration officer will call someone over to escort you there after they have gone with you to pick up your luggage.

I apologize for attributing the dogs statement to you. It was contained in the statement that you quoted from Soapy.

The regular warning from the US State Dept regarding travel in Phils. Take it how you will.

Exercise increased caution in the Philippines due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and a measles outbreak. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to crime, terrorism, and civil unrest.

Marawi City in Mindanao due to terrorism and civil unrest.

Reconsider travel to:

Other areas of Mindanao due to crime, terrorism, and civil unrest.

Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets / shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Philippine government has declared a "State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao. ".

There is an outbreak of measles in the Philippines. Philippine authorities have reported deaths in the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, and Davao. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has additional information on the outbreak at: [URL]https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/measles-philippines.[/URL].

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.

If you decide to travel to the Philippines:

Visit the CDC Travelers Health Page.

Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.

Avoid demonstrations.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

Review the Crime and Safety Report for the Philippines.

USA Citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler's Checklist.

The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea.

Terrorist and armed groups kidnap USA Citizens on land and at sea for ransom.

The USA Government has limited ability to provide emergency services to USA Citizens in the Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea as USA Government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to those areas.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Marawi City in Mindanao.

The Philippine government has declared martial law throughout the Mindanao region. Civilians are at risk of death or injury due to conflict between remnants of terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi.

The USA Government has limited ability to provide emergency services to USA Citizens in Mindanao as USA Government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Mindanao.

The Philippine government has declared martial law throughout the Mindanao region. The Philippine government also maintains a state of emergency and greater police presence in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting USA Citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

The USA Government has limited ability to provide emergency services to USA Citizens in Mindanao as USA Government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2168274]You are correct; I was not there. And technically an immigration officer and a customs officer are the same people these days. One day they can perform immigration duties and another day they can perform customs duties.[/QUOTE]Dude! You don't need to explain to us how customs and immigration works. Any of us from the US who have been abroad recently are familiar with the process, and the changes in the process, which aren't likely over yet.

As for dogs, I've been flying in and out of DFW since the late 70's, worked there for a while in the 80's, and have never seen any kind of police dog at that airport. Never.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2170122]The regular warning from the US State Dept regarding travel in Phils. Take it how you will.

......[/QUOTE]This is typical CYA bullshit. The State department is just trying to cover themselves. If you go anywhere and are hurt they can point to this and say "We warned them".

I used to read these before any travel but stopped after the UK Government warned about the danger from polar bears in Edmonton Canada.

If you are not familiar with polar bears or Edmonton; the city is over 1500 kms away from the nearest polar bear habitat and is a metropolitan city which all large animals avoid for the obvious reasons.

Take appropriate precautions and exercise common sense and most places can be safely visited anywhere in the world. (I spent 9 years in Afghanistan and am considering returning, safe place if you are careful.).

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2170391]This is typical CYA bullshit. The State department is just trying to cover themselves. If you go anywhere and are hurt they can point to this and say "We warned them".

I used to read these before any travel but stopped after the UK Government warned about the danger from polar bears in Edmonton Canada.[/QUOTE]KG, question: What would you have them do? Post nothing? Many governments post information about travel in other countries (their citizens might consider them remiss if they didn't). Due diligence suggests they post it.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2170450]KG, question: What would you have them do? Post nothing? Many governments post information about travel in other countries (their citizens might consider them remiss if they didn't). Due diligence suggests they post it.[/QUOTE]How about posting the truth? Not the alternate truth but the real truth.

In my example of polar bears in Edmonton, even in pre settlement days there never were polar bears anywhere near the place. It is the wrong climate and terrain for them.

If there is a risk, then post it with some actual indicators of the actual risk of being there. I. e. Don't say threat of terrorist activity, say what specific incidents have occurred, let me make an informed decision about the place.

[QUOTE=Eszpresszo;2170127]....
As for dogs, I've been flying in and out of DFW since the late 70's, worked there for a while in the 80's, and have never seen any kind of police dog at that airport. Never.[/QUOTE]Dogs are getting much more common elsewhere.

Funny story.

In Kandahar you need to line up with your luggage and be sniffed by the dog before even entering the airport. Once we were flying our helo from Kandahar to a construction site that was just being set up. The guys there had been eating MRE (3 lies in one) for over a month with only limited local fresh stuff.

We went to the pizza place on the base and bought a stack of pizza for them as a treat. Of course the boxes were sniffed and attracted a lot of attention from the dogs.

Moral of the story, hide your contraband in a pizza box. LOL.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2170797]Dogs are getting much more common elsewhere.[/QUOTE]They have always been common. Just because one person has never seen them don't mean shit. It was in 1994 that I applied to be a Canine Enforcement Officer with US Customs. I found out about the job because a buddy that I was in college with was messing with a girl at the school next to ours who was an immigration officer and she brought me applications for the positions that were open.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2170791]If there is a risk, then post it with some actual indicators of the actual risk of being there. I. e. Don't say threat of terrorist activity, say what specific incidents have occurred, let me make an informed decision about the place.[/QUOTE]Makes sense. Below is from the US Dept of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security's website (OSAC), regarding Philippine crime / safety 2017:

[URL]https://www.osac.gov/pages/ContentReportDetails.aspx?cid=21253[/URL]

[I]The PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) is primarily responsible for kidnapping investigations.

In 2016, there were 22 reported kidnappings, predominantly of local citizens. Thirteen of these incidents occurred in Mindanao.

AKG officials report that kidnapping incidents in Mindanao are most often perpetrated by Muslim insurgent/terrorist organizations (ASG, MILF, the Lawless MILF Group). Kidnappings remain prevalent in western Mindanao, particularly in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao; on the Zamboanga Peninsula; in the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat; in the Chartered Cities of Zamboanga, General Santos City, Cotabato, Iligan, Cagayan de Oro; and throughout the Sulu Sea. Several militant groups see kidnap-for-ransom as a way to fund their operations, and foreigners are often targeted.

The AFP stated that the ASG was holding 13 foreign hostages kidnapped between February 1, 2012 and April 15, 2016. Although, the vast majority of the kidnapping victims are Philippine nationals, the period of 2014-2016 saw a marked increase in foreign hostage-taking. In 2016, ASG was linked to the kidnappings of one Norwegian, one Korean, two Canadian, and two Malaysian nationals. AFP indicates it is aware of at least 18 foreign citizens being held hostage throughout the southern Philippines by ASG and other KFR groups.[/I]

[QUOTE=Eszpresszo;2170127]As for dogs, I've been flying in and out of DFW since the late 70's, worked there for a while in the 80's, and have never seen any kind of police dog at that airport. Never.[/QUOTE]Now you're causing me to rethink my experience on the morning of April 9th. I had just departed immigration and customs, turned a checked bag over to the baggage handlers for rerouting on my domestic flight, and then proceeded to the TSA security point. There was a fairly long line of people, including some who were coming in from outside the airport, and the place was swarming with TSA officers. Most were smiling and pleasant, but as usual, there is always one barking out directions who thinks he's still a drill sergeant dealing with recruits rather than with civilians. And then one TSA officer guided a black lab along the line of people with carry-on bags. He directed all of us to step to the side within the queuing line to make room for him and the dog to pass through. He probably checked 200 people and their bags within about ten minutes. But I'm open to considering that this was actually a hologram of a TSA officer and a lab.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2170850]KG officials report that kidnapping incidents in Mindanao are most often perpetrated by Muslim insurgent/terrorist organizations (ASG, MILF, the Lawless MILF Group).[/QUOTE]There's a lawless group of Mothers I'd Like to Fuck roaming around kidnapping foreigners? Sounds like the best way to go ever!

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2170450]KG, question: What would you have them do? Post nothing? Many governments post information about travel in other countries (their citizens might consider them remiss if they didn't). Due diligence suggests they post it.[/QUOTE]There are random events happening all over the Philippines, and not all of them are reported.

Last week (April 18) the NPA attacked a barangay outpost in Surigao del Norte. A civilian expat was killed and 2 others injured.

2 weeks ago there was an unreported attack in Butuan (I was advised not to go to CdO for business as a result of that). In February there was another attempted kidnapping of a foreigner in South-eastern Luzon (again, unreported on request of the foreigner). I learned about it from a mutual friend.

The Australian and US warnings cannot hope to cover every corner of the Philippines, so they issue blanket coverage.

Travellers should do their own specific diligence prior to travelling anywhere rather than relying on generalized and non-specific warnings.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;2170850]Makes sense. Below is from the US Dept of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security's website (OSAC), regarding Philippine crime / safety 2017:

[URL]https://www.osac.gov/pages/ContentReportDetails.aspx?cid=21253[/URL]

[I]The PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) is primarily responsible for kidnapping investigations.

In 2016, there were 22 reported kidnappings, predominantly of local citizens. Thirteen of these incidents occurred in Mindanao.

AKG officials report that kidnapping incidents in Mindanao are most often perpetrated by Muslim insurgent/terrorist organizations (ASG, MILF, the Lawless MILF Group). Kidnappings remain prevalent in western Mindanao, particularly in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao; on the Zamboanga Peninsula; in the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat; in the Chartered Cities of Zamboanga, General Santos City, Cotabato, Iligan, Cagayan de Oro; and throughout the Sulu Sea. Several militant groups see kidnap-for-ransom as a way to fund their operations, and foreigners are often targeted. .[/I][/QUOTE]I go to Iligan several times a year and there have always been warnings for as long as I can remember. I was there last July when the fighting in Marawi was going on. It's about a 45 minute drive from where I was staying and we'd occasionally hear helicopters overhead and the occasional explosion. There were soldiers everywhere and they were emptying out all vehicles so everyone could walk through the various checkpoints. I went through them twice a day for a week and was only stopped once (must be my lovely fair complexion).

Most of the schools were being used as temporary shelters for the Marawi refugees. It was strange seeing so many head scarfs in the christian schools.

I was back in March this year and it was pretty much back to normal. There were still soldiers around but they were joking with us as we went through the checkpoints. One even asked to take some pictures. Most of the locals I know didn't seem bothered. The only grumbling seemed to be having to allow more time to get through the checkpoints.

I don't recall reading any updates here on the recent brilliant move by the BNP (that's the Phils Treasury) to release new 5 peso and 10 peso coins that are silver in color and virtually indistinguishable from the 1 php coin except for the 1, 5 or 10 inscribed on them.

OK. Nit-pickers will tell me that if you line them up and compare them there are differences but these differences are slight. The new 10 peso is fractionally larger and thinner and the 5 peso is thicker but these differences are only obvious when you compare them.

I said "brilliant" in my opening sentence because I cannot see why anyone would change from the distinctive differences currently existing between the 5 and 10 peso coins.

Why do I mention this? Because I suspect some shrewd shop assistants for whom 3 or 4 pesos means a few texts or calls on a cell phone are set to cash in on this. Twice in the last 3 days I have been offered coins as change instead of notes (sorry Sir for the small change) and instead of receiving 4 x 5 peso new coins I was given 3 x 5 plus a 1 peso coin concealed within. That's an easy 4 peso profit for the shop assistant / lifter.

I am certainly not a cheap charlie but for me it's the principle that counts. The second time it happened to me (different shop) I quickly checked and saw a discrepancy in my change and pointed it out to the assistant.

Ohhh so sorry Sir. It's these new coins. Very confusing sir di ba?

Buyers beware. I contemplate seeing many visitors peering closely at their coins trying to see whether they have a 1, a 5 or a 10 inscribed thereon

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2174794].....

Ohhh so sorry Sir. It's these new coins. Very confusing sir di ba?

....[/QUOTE]See how confusing it really is. Pay for something costing 20 p with 3 x new 5 plus 1 x1. LOL.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2174999]See how confusing it really is. Pay for something costing 20 p with 3 x new 5 plus 1 x1. LOL.[/QUOTE]In my world, 2 wrongs don't make a right.

Try this with a filipino and they will be on it quicker than a fly on sh*t.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2174794]

I am certainly not a cheap charlie but for me it's the principle that counts.[/QUOTE]It's holding the line. It's avoiding the slippery slope. If I let them get away with it now it will embolden them in the future. So many ISG folks ask why we begrudge these poor people the several pesos they try to pry away from us through chicanery or by themselves being cheap charlies. Is it anything more than having self respect, being reasonable, and protecting your interests?

I sometimes get the message from these people that I ought to unload my money as quickly as possible, go back home, and that I should not come back until I get some more. It can make me weary. A while ago I wanted to settle down here. No way. It would be like living in a constant state of siege. I love the place but only in measured doses.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2175017]In my world, 2 wrongs don't make a right.

Try this with a filipino and they will be on it quicker than a fly on sh*t.[/QUOTE]See the LOL.

Means I was joking.

Yes they will catch on quick meaning that they were not confused when they did it to you, that was the point of my post.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2174999]See how confusing it really is. Pay for something costing 20 p with 3 x new 5 plus 1 x1. LOL.[/QUOTE]And I'm sure I will need reading glasses to read the numerical inscription. The only problem is, I don't wear reading glasses in public. I'll continue to give my change to parasites and beggars and let them sort it out.

[QUOTE=SaltyPete;2175848]And I'm sure I will need reading glasses to read the numerical inscription. The only problem is, I don't wear reading glasses in public. I'll continue to give my change to parasites and beggars and let them sort it out.[/QUOTE]Always give my loose change to the beggars as for me is a few coins but for them can be a lot.

For those not familiar with it Lazada is a Philippine based shopping app. Lots of junk on it but sometimes you see something good.

I noticed that they now sell load. It is sold at a 5% discount as well. I bought 1000 p load and it was there in a minute or so and only cost me 950 on my credit card.

It was valid for a year too.

This may be of interest to guys who want to keep their local phone topped up and current while out of the country. You can add as little as 10 p at a cost of 9. 5 p. Not sure how long that extends the validity period but worth a try.

I like it because it was a lot easier than going to the 7-11 and buying a couple of 500 p cards and entering them. (Sorry po 500 not available, would you like 20 50 p cards instead?

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2176001]For those not familiar with it Lazada is a Philippine based shopping app.[/QUOTE]It is all over SEA, not just PI. I use the website in Thailand. You can get stuff like chargers and dashcams and all kinds of other stuff for less than you get at the cheapest stores in town.

Ah, the impermanence of life, the death of an old friend whom I thought would surely outlive me.

Craigslist has ceased publishing their infamous Personals section. They ceased publishing the section in the USA a month or so ago, but written offers of debauchery of all types continued to appear in Manila, Cebu, Bangkok, Hanoi, and other Asian hotspots.

But when I entered a search for Hanoi yesterday, I found a shuttered window. Its darkness was an insult to the many hours of unexpected delights it served up over the years.

But the winds of Christian morality are blowing strong in the great moralist, Mr. Trump's, kingdom. Seems part of making America great again entails the disassembly of Sensual Encounters which Craigslist so effectively served up over the years.

I'm told by a good friend in Dallas that many other publications which once delivered opportunities to bring punter and performer together have disappeared; summons served, owners jailed.

I had great success over the years in the pages of Craigslist from Cebu to Bogota. RIP, old friend.

[QUOTE=PolyOrchid;2176284]Ah, the impermanence of life, the death of an old friend whom I thought would surely outlive me.

Craigslist has ceased publishing their infamous Personals section.

But the winds of Christian morality are blowing strong

I had great success over the years in the pages of Craigslist from Cebu to Bogota. RIP, old friend.[/QUOTE]How much time remains for DIA, WeChat, and even ISG as it furthers the same interests which which were found to be objectionable in the personals section of Craigslist?

[QUOTE=Pompetus;2176385]How much time remains for DIA, WeChat, and even ISG as it furthers the same interests which which were found to be objectionable in the personals section of Craigslist?[/QUOTE]Oh well, we have Facebook's new Dating App launched this week to fill the gap. "This is going to be for building real, long-term relationships not just hookups," Zuckerberg said. So "hookups" seem to be within his sphere of interest.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2170870]But I'm open to considering that this was actually a hologram of a TSA officer and a lab.[/QUOTE]I wasn't challenging your sanity, but rather challenging a certain person who thought he could tell me exactly what went on at customs and immigration when I arrived recently, although he wasn't there. A certain person who has made over 7500 posts but seems unable to learn much about anything.

As for dogs at DFW, I have in fact never seen any kind of LE dog in my 40 years of travel through that place. But, that doesn't mean you didn't see a dog there. It just means that somebody who wasn't there, didn't see one either.

[QUOTE=KongKing;2176506]Oh well, we have Facebook's new Dating App launched this week to fill the gap. "This is going to be for building real, long-term relationships not just hookups," Zuckerberg said. So "hookups" seem to be within his sphere of interest.[/QUOTE]Dammit Zuck. I'm all about the hookup.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2176001]
I noticed that they now sell load. It is sold at a 5% discount as well. I bought 1000 p load and it was there in a minute or so and only cost me 950 on my credit card.[/QUOTE]With a good exchange rate?

Sometimes inspections and questions have nothing to do with you. Could be about numbers, quotas, budgets, funding and grants.

I can remember years ago after leaving a AMP I was pulled over for a "seat belt" violation by an unmarked police car with 4 officers. After the dance around where I was coming from and what I was doing, I asked what did they really want? I told them that unmarks with 4 officers do not pull people over for minor infractions.

The guy in charge said he saw me leave the AMP and wanted to know who the masseuses were. After a few minutes of more questioning and I confirmed that they were all Vietnamese and not Koreans, they just took off. They had no interests in the Vietnamese. It turns out this was a task force working under a Federal grant to stop Korean [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908][CodeWord908][/url]. Those in SF will remember when the KMP's were busted left and right. There were some people charged with HT but never a conviction.

My take away from that encounter was LE like other organizations has to show numbers and results to maintain grants and funding. Don't ever think it is all about enforcement and compliance.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2177060]My take away from that encounter was LE like other organizations has to show numbers and results to maintain grants and funding. Don't ever think it is all about enforcement and compliance.[/QUOTE]And sometimes it's about priorities and fads, political and otherwise. I know of a police department in a city near my home that recently decided to buy a bunch of black SUVs. Apparently the brass decided they would blend in easier for unmarked speed trap operations. If they'd asked the patrol officers they would have learned that the officers already had plenty of tricks for hiding their speeding operations with regular patrol cars. So the department bought a bunch of these more expensive vehicles, equipped them with all sorts of WiFi and other features--and subsequently disabled the systems when they got sticker shock over the monthly costs for the service. Don't ever think LE is an inherently rational business.

After riding a few luxury busses, SUV's private cars, taxis and Grab cars + SUV's in Philippines, I have noticed the drivers will step on the gas pedal and then let up and coast. Gas it again and coast. Even on the expressways going 90+ kph. Is this the norm for saving on fuel? I personally don't think it saves on fuel as they are coasting in gear.

It drives me crazy that they shift gears way too early causing the cars to lug. Using more fuel than they think they are saving.

3rd thing, why do they use the parking brake sitting still in traffic on a level street?

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2177528]After riding a few luxury busses, SUV's private cars, taxis and Grab cars + SUV's in Philippines, I have noticed the drivers will step on the gas pedal and then let up and coast. Gas it again and coast. Even on the expressways going 90+ kph. Is this the norm for saving on fuel? I personally don't think it saves on fuel as they are coasting in gear.[/QUOTE]I always assumed it's because they are so accustomed to stop-and-go traffic that they never have confidence to be able to hold the accelerator at a constant speed. They also contribute to the stop-and-go with their incessant lane-switching. The one basic rule for right-of-way is that whoever gets the nose of his vehicle ahead of another vehicle, even if coming in from a side street, has right of way. So the incessant lane-switching appears to be motivated by some silly notion of getting ahead of every other vehicle. Sometimes this results in straddling two lanes so the driver can preserve opportunities to surge ahead in either of the two lanes. The actual outcome of all the lane-switching is that traffic flow suffers a continuous accordion effect, and this slows everybody down collectively as compared to what they'd experience if drivers generally stayed in one lane. So the on-and-off with the accelerator may be related to peripheral vision and looking for opportunities to change lanes to get ahead. If they truly wished to be fuel efficient they would focus on the flow of vehicles five or six vehicles ahead in the lanes ahead of them, instead of looking for small openings with just enough room for one vehicle in the lanes to their right or left.

Soapy,

This is on the open road without any traffic with professional drivers. One example is on the first class Victory Line bus from Baguio to Manila. On the open Tplex and Nlex with no traffic in front the driver would let off on the gas and coast for 5-10 seconds and then hit the pedal again. Possibly on a Diesel engine you might be able to coast better.

Another is on the way to the airport T3 I paid for the skyway assuming it would be faster. The grab driver drove around 40 KPH with no traffic ahead of him. I assume he had a fixed price fare he would save on the gas.

Other times I have had taxi drivers reluctant to use the skyway even though I was paying for it. I now believe they think the skyway uses too much fuel.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2177604]This is on the open road without any traffic with professional drivers. One example is on the first class Victory Line bus from Baguio to Manila. On the open Tplex and Nlex with no traffic in front the driver would let off on the gas and coast for 5-10 seconds and then hit the pedal again. Possibly on a Diesel engine you might be able to coast better.[/QUOTE]I have been driving standard transmission vehicles with rear-wheel drive for more than fifty years. My foot is big enough that I put the left side of my right foot on the accelerator and the right side up against the center drive train column. Bracing against the column helps me maintain steady pressure on the accelerator. In my experience Filipinos' feet are comparatively smaller. If their feet are too small to brace against the column, then the only pivot or brace point they have is the heel. Hence the up and down motion. Just a thought. I am well aware of the on-again-off-again accelerator pattern you describe. I've known lots of American women who drive that way, presumably because their feet are smaller. Not much of a problem nowadays with automatic transmission and cruise control.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2177528]After riding a few luxury busses, SUV's private cars, taxis and Grab cars + SUV's in Philippines, I have noticed the drivers will step on the gas pedal and then let up and coast. Gas it again and coast. Even on the expressways going 90+ kph. Is this the norm for saving on fuel? I personally don't think it saves on fuel as they are coasting in gear.[/QUOTE]This behavior has already been discussed on this board some time (one year?) ago. Back then someone came up with a rather technical explanation. If I recall correctly he said that in the past the Filipino's had to do this to keep the gasoline flowing into the engine. However nowadays this is not necessary anymore because their cars and the fuel injection have become better. So it's just an old habit.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2177528]3rd thing, why do they use the parking brake sitting still in traffic on a level street?[/QUOTE]It's a safety thing we are taught in the UK, when stationary to apply the Parking Brake, in case of a care from behind shunting you into the car in front. I moved to California a few years ago, and got told to stop doing it mid-way through my driving test by the examiner. So different countries / cultures have different standards to securing their vehicle when at a standstill.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2178002]This behavior has already been discussed on this board some time (one year?) ago. Back then someone came up with a rather technical explanation. If I recall correctly he said that in the past the Filipino's had to do this to keep the gasoline flowing into the engine. However nowadays this is not necessary anymore because their cars and the fuel injection have become better. So it's just an old habit.[/QUOTE]It was me Mog.

It traces back to jeepney drivers having to pump the low-grade sh*t engines in the jeepneys to keep them going. Somehow it transferred across to all drivers who were taught wrongly.

I was sick and tired of having to re-train company drivers to NOT keep pumping the throttle (accelerator pedal).

Sorry Soapy. Nice try but its got nothing to do with small feet or delicate ankles. It's the way they have been trained.

When I tried to re-educate my drivers, I was given that infuriating filipino response: "But Sir, we've always done it this way".

Once they learn that the engine won't cut out if they don't keep pumping the pedal they are really quite pleased about it.

[QUOTE=PBtoCobra;2178011]It's a safety thing we are taught in the UK, when stationary to apply the Parking Brake, in case of a care from behind shunting you into the car in front. I moved to California a few years ago, and got told to stop doing it mid-way through my driving test by the examiner. So different countries / cultures have different standards to securing their vehicle when at a standstill.[/QUOTE]I would add that it's a courtesy thing too: having brake lights glaring at you in front when stopped at traffic lights can be painful, so using the hand brake (as they usually are in UK cars, in between the two front seats) is a nice thing to do. Not that many do, of course.

I also moved to California from the UK. It's a whole different world of driving. And California isn't even that bad in relative terms compared to, say, NYC.

Driving in Negros (not brave enough for Manila) it is nuts, and you do need 360 degree vision and fast reactions, but rarely does anybody get angry.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2176547]With a good exchange rate?[/QUOTE]I am not a tourist. I live here and have local accounts.

I used my peso credit card.

Your exchange rate and foreign usage fees are between you and your bank.

I have also transfered load via WorldRemit but fees are expensive there.

[QUOTE=Simmer;2178149]I would add that it's a courtesy thing too: having brake lights glaring at you in front when stopped at traffic lights can be painful, so using the hand brake (as they usually are in UK cars, in between the two front seats) is a nice thing to do. Not that many do, of course.

I also moved to California from the UK. It's a whole different world of driving. And California isn't even that bad in relative terms compared to, say, NYC.

Driving in Negros (not brave enough for Manila) it is nuts, and you do need 360 degree vision and fast reactions, but rarely does anybody get angry.[/QUOTE]Manila drivers would have be 2 meters behind a car to have glaring taillights in their face. If there were 2 meters of space, 5 motorbikes, 2 Trike's, 3 taxis and 1 bus would cut in front of him! Joking I write this.

The other day I was in a private paid car and I notice the front windshield was tinted. Not the curtain tint but regular tint. Same dark tint as on the side and rear windows. This was at night and I was sitting in the front seat. It was clear his vision was reduced. In addition to the danger of walking in front of vehicles, be aware of the extra danger of tinted windshields.

As much as I hate EDSA blvd in Manila, the other day riding in a luxury bus on a holiday whereas traffic was way down, I got a good look at EDSA businesses. It was a sunny day and I was surprised that EDSA looked good without the impaired vision of trucks, buses and black smoke spilling jeepneys. Truly a day that taillights were able to glare.

Thanks Red. Makes sense.

I took my driver's test at age 16 in New York State. It was a very tough test compared to what I've seen in other states. I don't know whether it still is. We were expected to parallel park behind another vehicle (without touching the curb and ending up with tires within six inches of the curb. For left and right turns we were expected to use hand signals in addition to the electric turn signals. We also did a three-point turn on a two-way street on an uphill. Not easy with standard transmission. First pull to the right curb (obviously the correct side of the street), using both hand and electric turn signals to the right. Then hand and electric left turn signals, proceeding to the other side with front tires coming to rest gently on the opposite curb. Then reverse and proceed the opposite direction. Coming to a stop in traffic and for the three-point turn we were expected also to give a hand stop signal: left hand out the driver's window, along the side of the door, with palm facing to the rear. When stopping at the curb for the three-point, parallel parking, and end of the exam, we were expected to put the vehicle in neutral and set the handbrake. Times have changed, perhaps largely because of automatic transmissions.

There was an unwritten practice of failing boys on their first attempt, not so with girls unless they were truly haphazard. I was lucky to have passed the first time.

I was taught to simply keep the clutch depressed at red lights. A dozen years later I learned that it's better to put the transmission in neutral and let the clutch pedal back to save wear and tear on the throw-out bearing. Defensive driving schools now teach putting standard transmissions in neutral and foot on the brake at stop lights as defense against somebody plowing into you from the back. For automatics it's put the vehicle in park.

Sim, in my experience Boston driving is worse than NYC. Perhaps related to all those absent-minded, self-centered collegiate types.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;2178333]Manila drivers would have be 2 meters behind a car to have glaring taillights in their face. If there were 2 meters of space, 5 motorbikes, 2 Trike's, 3 taxis and 1 bus would cut in front of him! Joking I write this.

The other day I was in a private paid car and I notice the front windshield was tinted. Not the curtain tint but regular tint. Same dark tint as on the side and rear windows. This was at night and I was sitting in the front seat. It was clear his vision was reduced. In addition to the danger of walking in front of vehicles, be aware of the extra danger of tinted windshields.

As much as I hate EDSA blvd in Manila, the other day riding in a luxury bus on a holiday whereas traffic was way down, I got a good look at EDSA businesses. It was a sunny day and I was surprised that EDSA looked good without the impaired vision of trucks, buses and black smoke spilling jeepneys. Truly a day that taillights were able to glare.[/QUOTE]Believe it or not, once one lives here, has a car and drives every day, the general chaotic insanity becomes internalized, starts to appear normal, and you adjust to the erratic driving behaviors. I know, for example, when there's a vehicle, any vehicle, on my right at an intersection, that there's an excellent possibility the driver will try to cut across the front of my car to turn left. I know when approaching an intersection that the concept of "right angle turns" doesn't exist here, nor does the concept of right of way. I know that lane markings are considered purely decorative and that traffic can go in any direction in any lane. I know that even during periods of heavy rains at night some idiot on a motorcycle (usually without rear lights) will try to weave in and out of traffic, and that cyclists wearing dark clothes and with no reflectors or lights will peddle blithely through traffic at night. I know that that dark, slow-moving splotch 25 or 30 meters ahead of me at night, is likely a trike full of people struggling to make it up a hill. I know that the jeepney in front of me will stop wherever the driver pleases with no signal and no warning and I know that no traffic regulations will be enforced. Ever. It's just one of the more bizarre aspects of living here to which one has to adjust.

I've adjusted to all of the above, as have all of the expats I know here who drive. The problem comes when I return to the West and then I have to struggle for a couple of days to remember what safe, correct driving behavior is.

As to the heavy tint on front windshields, it's true and it's normal. I've grown accustomed to it as it does cut way down on the glare from a relentless sun and at night it makes me hyper vigilant. I've also grown accustomed to the fact that many, if not most drivers will not turn on their lights in heavy rains, and will wait until it's pitch dark at night to do so. Why? "Because I'm saving my battery sir. " I've also noticed that there's no comprehension whatsoever of torque or appropriate shift points. I've often asked Grab Taxi and Uber drivers if they know what the tachometer is for and what it measures. The unanimous response is "no sir," which could explain why so many drivers continue up fairly steep inclines in fourth gear at 1,500 RPM: "I'm saving gas sir. " And though I've tried, I could never convince any of them otherwise.

All of the above explains whyI'the prefer to drive my own car almost all of the time, regardless of circumstances. I taught my wife to drive about 15 years ago, and I taught her according to the rules under which I learned. She became an excellent driver of both manual and automatic cars, and gets even more frustrated than I do about the general anarchy on the roads here, cursing other drivers in an endless stream of Tagalog or Visayan profanity.

GE.

GE, your post offers a very observant slice of Filipino life. In my view it's a report of distinction, but you're going to have to take my word for it, because it's a hassle making the actual link over into the reports of distinction thread.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2178732]GE, your post offers a very observant slice of Filipino life. In my view it's a report of distinction, but you're going to have to take my word for it, because it's a hassle making the actual link over into the reports of distinction thread.[/QUOTE]Thanks. I'm glad you enjoyed it. It's not particularly insightful and virtually anyone who lives here and drives regularly could, I'm sure, have made the same points. Driving here does have the benefit of forcing yourself "to accept the things (you) cannot change," though I need to remind myself of this ineluctable fact at least once a day.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2178701]Believe it or not, once one lives here, has a car and drives every day, the general chaotic insanity becomes internalized, starts to appear normal, and you adjust to the erratic driving behaviors. I know, for example, when there's a vehicle, any vehicle, on my right at an intersection, that there's an excellent possibility the driver will try to cut across the front of my car to turn left. I know when approaching an intersection that the concept of "right angle turns" doesn't exist here, nor does the concept of right of way. I know that lane markings are considered purely decorative and that traffic can go in any direction in any lane. I know that even during periods of heavy rains at night some idiot on a motorcycle (usually without rear lights) will try to weave in and out of traffic, and that cyclists wearing dark clothes and with no reflectors or lights will peddle blithely through traffic at night. I know that that dark, slow-moving splotch 25 or 30 meters ahead of me at night, is likely a trike full of people struggling to make it up a hill. I know that the jeepney in front of me will stop wherever the driver pleases with no signal and no warning and I know that no traffic regulations will be enforced. Ever. It's just one of the more bizarre aspects of living here to which one has to adjust.


GE.[/QUOTE]Great FR GE and I can add that when in Cebu I am used to seeing 15-20 motorbikes in front of me at the traffic lights even though I am the first vehicle waiting to leave when the lights turn green. And you must get used them weaving / slaloming along any road without any care for their safety but if they hit you it is your fault LO.

As for turning left despite being in the wrong lane. Even I am tempted to do only because everyone else does LOL.

Lastly my car got a scrape on the driver side front wing. How? In the left lane filter (second lane) a taxi decided to go straight on and side swiped the car. The police report clearly stated I was at fault as I was on the inside lane turning left and he turned into me hence causing the dent on the left and his dent on the right. Go figure that one as clearly spurious and ridiculous and even the insurance had a good laugh at that one.

But for me it is like driving in Saudi so it feels like home form home at times LOL.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2178549]Sim, in my experience Boston driving is worse than NYC.[/QUOTE]I have no doubt that is true. Even as a pedestrian the difference between Chicago and LA is vast: LA you cross the road and cars give way (and pedestrians step out with this knowledge, so often don't even look up from their phone); Chicago you have to walk around or over the cars. If they even stop.

Regarding the comments about tint, I will not drive in the Philippines at night any more. My night vision isn't great anyway, so add tint and dark streets into the mix and it's just not worth it.

Some years ago, may still happen. In Puerta Rico an auto accident happens and a PR cop first visits the driver of each damaged auto. After that interview the fault for the accident officially falls on the owner who has car insurance regardless of who is really at fault. LOL.

[QUOTE=Simmer;2178984]
Regarding the comments about tint, I will not drive in the Philippines at night any more. My night vision isn't great anyway, so add tint and dark streets into the mix and it's just not worth it.[/QUOTE]I hear you. The older I get, the worse my night vision becomes, which is why I typically ask my (much younger) wife to drive at night. There are times however, when my driving at night is pretty much unavoidable, and rather than trusting myself to the often unstable ministrations of a taxi driver, I just bite the bullet and drive.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;2179102]I hear you. The older I get, the worse my night vision becomes, which is why I typically ask my (much younger) wife to drive at night. There are times however, when my driving at night is pretty much unavoidable, and rather than trusting myself to the often unstable ministrations of a taxi driver, I just bite the bullet and drive.

GE.[/QUOTE]I should have regaled my first time driving there. So the remnants of a typhoon were still in effect and I'm driving in a foreign country on the wrong side of the road, driving my Filipina wife and her parents through / over / around trees on the road, and through angry waves crashing over the road. Laughing at the image of a poor white man driving rich Filipinos around in their own country. Anyway, survive the suicidal trucks and buses passing on the wrong side on blind bends for 3 hours and literally within sight of our destination there is a dog in the road. No problem. Just drive around it, slightly onto the grass verge. Except it wasn't. It was a U-shaped concrete drainage channel with long grass growing out of it. Two wheels planted in the ditch. Thankfully it was literally right outside the Barangay captain's house and he and several others just lifted the car out of the ditch. Drank a fair few Red Horse that night to deal with the embarrassment.

Another reason I am less keen to drive is that apparently if you hit a pedestrian then you're assumed to be at fault until / unless somebody gets you out of the jail. The chances of this happening (whether the driver's fault or not) increase dramatically at night, of course, so. Nah. We will be moving over there eventually and I plan to have a driver on-call, or wife, or use public transport.

No alcohol sales.

No gun carry.

Voting buying in full progress now.

Ran into an interesting article yesterday: [URL]https://www.gobankingrates.com/investing/real-estate/best-countries-investment-property/[/URL]. It rates Philippines as best global real estate investment opportunity in the world.

Basically it is looking at the offset of high rental yield vs low tax rates. It does NOT appear to consider operational costs, and I haven't yet looked at follow up data, but it certainly was enough to start me wondering about buying in to the market. Maybe two apartments. One for long-term rental and another for AirBnB which I can use for myself when I need some LBFM-lovin'.

And that got me thinking. I recently read some commentary in one of the threads (forget which) about time share scams. Started thinking about a time share setup dedicated to mongers. Extra towels, more cleaning (by people who know the score), sturdy furniture, easy clean furniture materials. :-p Monger-friendly buildings, and entry layouts. Big beds, mirrors, large showers, large bathtubs, etc, etc. I can imagine a network of places around the world in the various monger hot-spots, catering directly to the lifestyle. Buy in and get 4 weeks a year to spend in PI, or DR, or Ukraine, or Ghana, or Thailand, or, or, or. Woot!

Call it MNGR. Managed Network of Global Realestate. .

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2180079]
Basically it is looking at the offset of high rental yield vs low tax rates. [/QUOTE]So basically what you want is charging your fellow mongers high rents LOL.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2180088]So basically what you want is charging your fellow mongers high rents LOL.[/QUOTE]Wasn't proposing that I be the one to do it. LOL! But if you had 50 people kick in to a dozen or so apartments, it could get interesting. And then, no, there would be no rent, it would be time-share style. Maybe you could charge high-rent to non-members for unallocated member time.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2180079]And that got me thinking.. :-p Monger-friendly buildings, and entry layouts. Big beds, mirrors, large showers, large bathtubs, etc, etc. I can imagine a network of places around the world in the various monger hot-spots, catering directly to the lifestyle. Buy in and get 4 weeks a year to spend in PI, or DR, or Ukraine, or Ghana, or Thailand, or, or, or. Woot![/QUOTE]When I go somewhere to get pussy the only deals I want to make are for exactly that. There are already plenty of monger friendly hotels and condos around. Why get bogged down with the stress of business deals. This is supposed to be a relaxing period. And when the mongering hotspot turns to a mongering cold spot then what?

I got a buddy down in Rio now who invested in rental property when Copacabana was a mongering hotspot. Now that it is a mongering cold spot he has sold his places but is still left with the burden of getting his money out of there a little at a time. Or what if you had invested in Boracay? You would be mad as a mf right now.

Go. Have fun. And take your ass back home (or move there). Forget all the bright ideas (especially the ones that revolve around mongering.) Reminds me of my buddy a couple of months ago getting the bright idea to buy a bunch of dresses off Amazon and bringing them to Pattaya to sell. Clearly it was not a well thought out plan. First of all, if the girls had money to spend on that then they would not be hookers in the first place. Second of all there are plenty of rolling stores running around selling $3 dresses. And of course the ones that he had he would have to sell for way more than that. Needless to say, he went back home with just as many dresses as he arrived with.

Don't add unnecessary shit to your plate. Focus on the mongering at hand. Who wants to leave with more grey hair than they came with?

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2180191]When I go somewhere to get pussy the only deals I want to make are for exactly that. There are already plenty of monger friendly hotels and condos around. Why get bogged down with the stress of business deals. This is supposed to be a relaxing period. And when the mongering hotspot turns to a mongering cold spot then what?

......

Don't add unnecessary shit to your plate. Focus on the mongering at hand. Who wants to leave with more grey hair than they came with?[/QUOTE]I was actually in discussions with some guys back home where we would pay for the place, set it up with hot tub, sauna etc and have two girls live there. They would be paid a "salary. ".

Each "investor" would have exclusive nights. It would have worked out much less than traditional methods but we could never get enough guys interested in to make a go of it. There were two ladies who did fully interactive 3 ways interested in the arrangement. They wanted a veto right on any investor.

The main drawback to getting others to come on board was that they said that they would quickly tire of the same two several times a month. A few were OK with once a month but the original ones in the discussion wanted to have several nights a month. The girls wanted to keep it to less than 6 guys so we were looking at 5 times each a month. (We were looking at about $3 k CDN each a month. That would be $5 k for the place and $5 k each lady, with a small reserve in case we had people drop out.).

We were going to set it up that you could come as early as 6 PM and sleep over leaving by 6 AM. In hind sight it was a good thing we never went ahead with it. Just after the discussions fell apart my employer closed doors and I had to leave for overseas work ending up here a year later.

However for the guys who come and go, renting a place on a 12 month term, setting it up as the group wants, with scheduled times to use just might work out. You could offset some costs with Airbnb when not otherwise in use by the investors.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2180399]I was actually in discussions with some guys back home where we would pay for the place, set it up with hot tub, sauna etc and have two girls live there. They would be paid a "salary. ".

>SNIP<

However for the guys who come and go, renting a place on a 12 month term, setting it up as the group wants, with scheduled times to use just might work out. You could offset some costs with Airbnb when not otherwise in use by the investors.[/QUOTE]Well, the original comment was just an amusing thought experiment (You're a party-pooper, Mr E!), but being in the AEC industry I can in fact see how to make it work, even after a mongering destination were to go cold. The real point of the posting was the more generalised point from the article about real-estate investment opportunities.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2180410] The real point of the posting was the more generalised point from the article about real-estate investment opportunities.[/QUOTE]Don't believe everything you read BH.

Come and live here for at least 4 to 6 months and see for yourself. There are literally 1000's of properties being built all over the place (but especially in Metro Manila), and most of us (including some RE agents that I know) are wondering who is going to buy them or rent them. The presumption is that returning OFWs will buy them, but a completed condo building near my place that has been opened for 18 months has 40% of the units still unsold.

I bought an older-style condo unit 11 years ago but did so purely for somewhere to live and not as an investment, so I have "saved" a huge amount of money that would have otherwise gone on rental fees. A bonus for me is that my property has doubled in value as it is in a highly desirable position, has car parking space (very important), and is much larger than the newer units being built that are pitifully small. Of course, doubling in "value" only means something if there is a buyer if and when I decided to sell.

I would caution anyone against buying property for investment especially if you are a foreigner WITHOUT trust-worthy local advice.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2180435]Don't believe everything you read BH.

Come and live here for at least 4 to 6 months and see for yourself. There are literally 1000's of properties being built all over the place (but especially in Metro Manila), and most of us (including some RE agents that I know) are wondering who is going to buy them or rent them. The presumption is that returning OFWs will buy them, but a completed condo building near my place that has been opened for 18 months has 40% of the units still unsold.[/QUOTE]Exact same thing in Thailand RK. My main wingman (the guy who got me on ISG) bought a place in Pattaya. Well he paid for it 4 years ago, but since they wait to have a certain percentage of buyers before they start building, his place just got ready at the beginning of this year. I would have gotten my money back long ago. And like you said, these new places are match boxes compared to the older ones. He had to have his washing machine installed on the balcony. I mean there is not even enough space to change your mind in them.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2180448]Exact same thing in Thailand RK. My main wingman (the guy who got me on ISG) bought a place in Pattaya. Well he paid for it 4 years ago, but since they wait to have a certain percentage of buyers before they start building, his place just got ready at the beginning of this year. I would have gotten my money back long ago. And like you said, these new places are match boxes compared to the older ones. He had to have his washing machine installed on the balcony. I mean there is not even enough space to change your mind in them.[/QUOTE]I hear you on that one. I'm looking at picking up a place for myself in Singapore, and have ended up coming to the conclusion that it is better to buy one of the older places, because the new ones are just so damn small.

[QUOTE=BaddHabbit;2180502]I hear you on that one. I'm looking at picking up a place for myself in Singapore, and have ended up coming to the conclusion that it is better to buy one of the older places, because the new ones are just so damn small.[/QUOTE]Besides that you see what you are getting and the place has already settled.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2180399] (We were looking at about $3 k CDN each a month. That would be $5 k for the place and $5 k each lady, with a small reserve in case we had people drop out.).[/QUOTE]Are you talking about CAD here? Canadian Dollars? You were going to pay each lady almost 4,000 USD a month?
Are you talking about a condo in Canada or in the Phils?

"Link to Cebu Forum" has dropped from the (bottom of) the top set of threads, to the middle of the bottom thread (User Blog). Anyone know why? Disclaimer: I miss the occasional memo.

I'm planning my first trip to Philippines this year from India. The tentative plan is to land in Manila and take the Genesis bus to Angeles City. I only have Indian rupees cash and don't have any Indian credit / debit cards. How do I exchange these rupees for pesos? I've searched the forums and I understand that it's easy to convert major currencies like USD at the airport and local banks / stores, but am not sure if Indian rupees will be readily exchanged like USD. Any help to this newbie will be much appreciated.

[QUOTE=CamelToePokema;2183518]I only have Indian rupees cash and don't have any Indian credit / debit cards. How do I exchange these rupees for pesos.[/QUOTE]Exchange the rupees to $$ in India before you go. Then change $$ to pesos in the Philippines. Bring new undamaged $100 dollar bills. Maybe there is a black market in India that gives a better rate than the bank. You will probably find it very difficult to find a market for ruppes in the PI and if you, do the exchange rate will be horrific.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2180542]Are you talking about CAD here? Canadian Dollars? You were going to pay each lady almost 4,000 USD a month?
Are you talking about a condo in Canada or in the Phils?[/QUOTE]This was in Canada and was for two of the most highly rated local ladies who would be into full interactive 3 somes. One had had a really bad date and wanted to leave the profession but liked the lifestyle and the money so she thought that having a very small clientele with a guaranteed income would work for her.

[QUOTE=CamelToePokema;2183518]I'm planning my first trip to Philippines this year from India. The tentative plan is to land in Manila and take the Genesis bus to Angeles City. I only have Indian rupees cash and don't have any Indian credit / debit cards. How do I exchange these rupees for pesos? I've searched the forums and I understand that it's easy to convert major currencies like USD at the airport and local banks / stores, but am not sure if Indian rupees will be readily exchanged like USD. Any help to this newbie will be much appreciated.[/QUOTE]I do not think Indian currency is convertible anywhere at the official rate. You need to get usd somehow to travel anywhere. Even when I take usd 100 dollar bills I make sure it is undamaged and crispy.

Can you take rupees to local bank to get 100 usd bills? Do not use airport money exchange because their rates for any currency is horrendous.

The Australian newspapers have been running a series of articles about so-called "romance fraud".

The interesting thing about most of the discussion is that all of the duped people all maintained that they knew what they were doing and that this sort of thing "would never happen to them".

I thought this list was worth reproducing for the newbies online who fall for the clickbait lines.

Tips for avoiding romance fraud (adapted from Scamwatch).

• Never send money to someone that you have met online.

• Never agree to carry packages, or accept suitcases or bags from someone you have met online.

• Always assume that the person you are communicating with may not be genuine.

• Consider carefully any requests to travel (domestically or overseas) to meet someone you have met online.

• Don't feel pressured to respond in the moment. If in doubt, stop chatting and block the number.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2186913]Tips for avoiding romance fraud (adapted from Scamwatch).

Never send money to someone that you have met online.

Never agree to carry packages, or accept suitcases or bags from someone you have met online.

Always assume that the person you are communicating with may not be genuine.

Consider carefully any requests to travel (domestically or overseas) to meet someone you have met online.

Don't feel pressured to respond in the moment. If in doubt, stop chatting and block the number.[/QUOTE]Try telling that to a loner guy with his dick on hard sitting at home where he can't get any pussy or even a chick to give him a hug. All that common sense shit goes out the window.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2186937]Try telling that to a loner guy with his dick on hard sitting at home where he can't get any pussy or even a chick to give him a hug. All that common sense shit goes out the window.[/QUOTE]Totally agree Mr E. One thing I omitted to mention in my OP was that this warning was intended for WOMEN who were meeting guys online.

I am amazed at the number of women who tell me about guys who are asking them for air fares and other support online. It seems there are plenty of loner women too who fall for all manner of scams.

Have not read the whole thread but I cannot agree more and am stupefied by what I hear and see. These girls are from all walks of life and treat most guys like shXt but are conned out of big bucks by what I can only assume are silver tongued casa novas. Known several women conned by Indian / Pakistani / African guys over the Internet.

In the PI, there are plenty of kuyas doing the same thing and taking advantage of the WG, DH, or semi pro. Likewise with women executives or trust fund babies. Go figure.

Latest I heard was around 3 mil US. In a way it is just, in that both sexes are cheated almost equally.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2186944]Totally agree Mr E. One thing I omitted to mention in my OP was that this warning was intended for WOMEN who were meeting guys online.

I am amazed at the number of women who tell me about guys who are asking them for air fares and other support online. It seems there are plenty of loner women too who fall for all manner of scams.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE=RedKilt;2186913]The Australian newspapers have been running a series of articles about so-called "romance fraud".

The interesting thing about most of the discussion is that all of the duped people all maintained that they knew what they were doing and that this sort of thing "would never happen to them".

I thought this list was worth reproducing for the newbies online who fall for the clickbait lines.

Tips for avoiding romance fraud (adapted from Scamwatch).

Never send money to someone that you have met online..[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2186944]I am amazed at the number of women who tell me about guys who are asking them for air fares and other support online. It seems there are plenty of loner women too who fall for all manner of scams.[/QUOTE]I have been online since there was an online to be on and I never seem to find chicks like this. And coming from me it would not even be a scam. Some guys have all the luck.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2187003]I have been online since there was an online to be on and I never seem to find chicks like this. And coming from me it would not even be a scam. Some guys have all the luck.[/QUOTE]I have been told by a couple of girls that they have been asked to pay a foreign guys expenses. Usually some guy will come over on a cheap ticker and expect the girl to house and feed him while giving unlimited sex.

They will promise that it is only for a short time and that they will repay many times over once their money comes through from some sale of a business, house or divorce is finalized or their inheritance gets paid out. Since these sort of sob stories are common with Filipinos, some pinas fall for them and come home one day from their 12 hour shift at KFC to find the guy and anything valuable in the house has disappeared.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2187003] ..... And coming from me it would not even be a scam. Some guys have all the luck.[/QUOTE]A year before while I was visiting Cebu a girl of 40 ish invited me to visit her city in Negros Occi. Even she was willing to pay my travel expanses. I counted funny but she was damn serious.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2180399]I was actually in discussions with some guys back home where we would pay for the place, set it up with hot tub, sauna etc and have two girls live there. They would be paid a "salary. ".

Each "investor" would have exclusive nights. It would have worked out much less than traditional methods but we could never get enough guys interested in to make a go of it. There were two ladies who did fully interactive 3 ways interested in the arrangement. They wanted a veto right on any investor.

The main drawback to getting others to come on board was that they said that they would quickly tire of the same two several times a month. A few were OK with once a month but the original ones in the discussion wanted to have several nights a month. The girls wanted to keep it to less than 6 guys so we were looking at 5 times each a month. (We were looking at about $3 k CDN each a month. That would be $5 k for the place and $5 k each lady, with a small reserve in case we had people drop out.).

We were going to set it up that you could come as early as 6 PM and sleep over leaving by 6 AM. In hind sight it was a good thing we never went ahead with it. Just after the discussions fell apart my employer closed doors and I had to leave for overseas work ending up here a year later.

However for the guys who come and go, renting a place on a 12 month term, setting it up as the group wants, with scheduled times to use just might work out. You could offset some costs with Airbnb when not otherwise in use by the investors.[/QUOTE]Ehmmm. Sounds like a semi private brothel to my eyes.

1. 5 CND for two ladies: hell of a salary for the country.

As a side comment, you need to be 200% of the liability of the girls unless you make provisions it somebody else being the warden of the flat.

FWIW, I am not sure about BM's POV but KG, I think you are overpaying. Seoul is expensive but not that so. Also, that is a lot for the girls and the terms are quite long. Remember, their attention span is really not that long. Also, I assume they can play on the side. I would keep it simple and just do it for yourself or one other.

This type of arrangement was not uncommon in the PI and elsewhere for certain people. I recently told a Filipina to take up a sponsored offer because she was just not good at any financial management and kept digging a deeper hole. The guy was will willing to pay quite a lot as it would be much cheaper for him. Anywat just my 2 cents.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2180399]That would be $5 k for the place and $5 k each lady, with a small reserve in case we had people drop out.).[/QUOTE][QUOTE=BionicMan;2187051]Ehmmm. Sounds like a semi private brothel to my eyes.

1. 5 CND for two ladies: hell of a salary for the country.

As a side comment, you need to be 200% of the liability of the girls unless you make provisions it somebody else being the warden of the flat.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Bushes;2186958]Have not read the whole thread but I cannot agree more and am stupefied by what I hear and see. These girls are from all walks of life and treat most guys like shXt but are conned out of big bucks by what I can only assume are silver tongued casa novas. Known several women conned by Indian / Pakistani / African guys over the Internet.
[/QUOTE]Lest we forget, there is a women's sex tourism "industry." Smaller probably than ours, but it does exist. Mostly older, professional women who are striking out with men in their own countries and go looking for romance with virile young men in places such as the East Coast of Africa (for Russian and European women), the search for "Big Bamboo" in Jamaica and the Caribbean (for North American women), and in Thailand and elsewhere in Southeast Asia for Japanese and other East Asian women. Perhaps Australian women are getting into the action.

The movie **How Stella Got Her Groove back** is built on this model of May-December romance. Obviously economic disparities are a major ingredient in our hobby, so why not for women as well? Of course women don't like calling it sex tourism; they claim that, unlike male sex tourists, they are pursuing real romance.

A brief internet search for women's sex tourism will turn up stories of lonely European women sending large sums of money to support men they'd met, including some who are married, during their vacations in Africa, Jamaica, and elsewhere. In other cases they try to bring the men to marry or live with them in their home countries, but usually with dismal results--for a variety of reasons.

Mr. E, you probably do see these women in Thailand, but you look past them because you don't find them attractive.

[QUOTE=Bushes;2187072]FWIW, I am not sure about BM's POV but KG, I think you are overpaying. Seoul is expensive but not that so......[/QUOTE]Not Seoul but Canada. These ladies could easily make that in a week offering their services publicity, it had to work financially for them well.

Anyway the idea never got off the ground for a lot of reasons.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2187223]Lest we forget, there is a women's sex tourism "industry." Smaller probably than ours, but it does exist......[/QUOTE]Female sex tourism has been around for a long time. In 1981 my now ex and I went to Jamaica. There were two pairs of unaccompanied women at the same small hotel, one pair was there for sex tourism, we only saw them at meal times and they were always accompanied by at least two big local guys, each.

The other pair was there for a vacation, them and my ex quickly learned that they could not be at the pool or anywhere around the hotel without a male with them, if they were all the chairs around them quickly filled up with local guys who would just sit and stare at them. If I was with them the guys disappeared quickly.

A couple of the staff took to calling me Mr 3. Now that would have made some vacation memories LOL.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2187223]Perhaps Australian women are getting into the action.[/QUOTE]There is no perhaps. It is widely known that they go to Indonesia.
[QUOTE=Soapy Smith;2187223]Of course women don't like calling it sex tourism; they claim that, unlike male sex tourists, they are pursuing real romance. In other cases they try to bring the men to marry or live with them in their home countries, but usually with dismal results--for a variety of reasons.[/QUOTE]See this a lot in my favorite show 90 Day Fiance, where an American woman has gone to Jamaica or Dominican Republic and brought a guy back. Works out well in some cases, but it is always a shock to the women when they are expecting the money the man makes to add to their household, but he is sending so much money back home to his family instead. In one case on the show, a girl in my city and her Dominican fiance were living in a studio apartment while he had sent his mom (a lawyer) enough money that she was able to move into a 3 bedroom apartment. Meanwhile she had to shell out for her own engagement ring. That chick was livid!

I used to date a (rather small for a) Samoan chick in the US. She was a virgin when we met (but not for long) and treated me like a king. She had been to school for nursing but never had money to take the state test because she was always sending money back home. That made absolutely no sense to me (so I let her get away from me). My idea was help yourself before you go trying to help others. Know the culture before you go off getting into relationships with people.

Know a couple and seen many. Also, seen some in the PI. You would not know who has the money until you know the couple. The Filipina has most of the dough or the company the guy works in. The French are great at this. Another reason to dislike them! LOL

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2187274]There is no perhaps. It is widely known that they go to Indonesia..[/QUOTE]

Oh, I see. But if you do the leg work and setup, you don't need to pay them market. Then again, you don't want them to get caught free lancing.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2187244]Not Seoul but Canada. These ladies could easily make that in a week offering their services publicity, it had to work financially for them well.

Anyway the idea never got off the ground for a lot of reasons.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2187274]There is no perhaps. It is widely known that they go to Indonesia.
See this a lot in my favorite show 90 Day Fiance, where an American woman has gone to Jamaica or Dominican Republic and brought a guy back. Works out well in some cases, but it is always a shock to the women when they are expecting the money the man makes to add to their household, but he is sending so much money back home to his family instead. In one case on the show, a girl in my city and her Dominican fiance were living in a studio apartment while he had sent his mom (a lawyer) enough money that she was able to move into a 3 bedroom apartment. Meanwhile she had to shell out for her own engagement ring. That chick was livid!

I used to date a (rather small for a) Samoan chick in the US. She was a virgin when we met (but not for long) and treated me like a king. She had been to school for nursing but never had money to take the state test because she was always sending money back home. That made absolutely no sense to me (so I let her get away from me). My idea was help yourself before you go trying to help others. Know the culture before you go off getting into relationships with people.[/QUOTE]Many Filipinas send all of their money back home to the Philippines, along with any money they get from their "poriner" husband, while the husband struggles to keep up with the demands of supporting a wife with a ravenous appetite for consumer goods and a need to make as many children as possible.

When the husband is busy working two jobs to make ends meet, his Pinay wife will try out the more energetic cockerels in the neighborhood only a swipe away on her hookup apps. Mongers find themselves in such situations knowing that financial incompetence and marital infidelity are part of Flip culture, because their penis is boss and convinces them that they found the one exception. The only culture that matters is that the pussy is tight! LOL!

[QUOTE=Bushes;2187284]Oh, I see. But if you do the leg work and setup, you don't need to pay them market. Then again, you don't want them to get caught free lancing.[/QUOTE]It wasen't full market rate. They could make in a week what we would pay a month but we would include the house for them.

There were many trust issues all around. We had to trust that they would have been exclusive to us. We would have had to trust each other not to drop out leaving the bank short or us scrambling for a replacement of paying a larger share (abet getting a larger share in return.) The ladies would have to trust us to come up with the money each month because if they announced that they were retiring they would lose their client list as others moved into their market.

It was a nice fantasy, to have your own share in a small harem. Of course for what my share would have been I could actually have one here, except for the dangers of pina jealousy and reliability.

Bit dangerous in NA. Don't know the details but think easier for Filipinas to travel to Canada.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2187644]It wasen't full market rate. They could make in a week what we would pay a month but we would include the house for them.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Bushes;2188605]Bit dangerous in NA. Don't know the details but think easier for Filipinas to travel to Canada.[/QUOTE]There were Canadian girls.

Getting tourist visa for Philippine to Canada is difficult, any unaccompanied person from SE Asia will have difficulty getting tourist visa. They should have a history of going places here and returning home on time to even have a chance unless they own substantial property or have a good job.

Not hard to immigrate if young, educated, speak English or French, have some Canadian work experience (USA experience will help too.) and have a Canadian job offer.

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;2187247]Female sex tourism has been around for a long time. In 1981 my now ex and I went to Jamaica. There were two pairs of unaccompanied women at the same small hotel, one pair was there for sex tourism, we only saw them at meal times and they were always accompanied by at least two big local guys, each.

The other pair was there for a vacation, them and my ex quickly learned that they could not be at the pool or anywhere around the hotel without a male with them, if they were all the chairs around them quickly filled up with local guys who would just sit and stare at them. If I was with them the guys disappeared quickly.

A couple of the staff took to calling me Mr 3. Now that would have made some vacation memories LOL.[/QUOTE]There were two German young girls with Dominican guys where I stayed one time in DR. One German girl was very friendly with me and the DR guy got very jealous. However we managed to sneak around one time. She said her and her friend come once a year to DR. She gave me her number and e mail address. I did not contact her. If she is going to DR to look for guys she could be a sex tourist going to any number of places in the world.

Another time two Hong Kong girls I met at breakfast in Cebu hotel. They showed interest in me but they were fugly. Next morning I saw them with two Philippine guys at breakfast. Then I knew they were coming there to hook up with local guys. Another time I saw two Indian older ladies in Bangkok with local young guys at breakfast.

Do not know if these girls offer money for sex.

It maybe hard for girls to solicit young guys for sex. Sex market is generally geared towards men seeking women.

[QUOTE=Sammon;2188793]Another time I saw two Indian older ladies in Bangkok with local young guys at breakfast.

Do not know if these girls offer money for sex.

It maybe hard for girls to solicit young guys for sex. Sex market is generally geared towards men seeking women.[/QUOTE]You say that because you do not know where to look. Do you know where 3 gay clubs in Manila are located? Probably not, because that is not your thing so it is not what you are looking for. A lot of money that is given by foreigners to these Thai gogo bar chicks, the chick takes the money and goes to give it to a Thai male hooker to fuck them. There are Thai clubs for this that are open until daylight that a foreign male never steps into. In the Dominican Republic they made 2 comedy movies about this. Sanky Panky 1 and Sanky Panky 2 (sanky panky is the Dominican term for male hooker that hooks up with foreign chicks), where a guy went to work at a resort so he could meet foreign women that were paying for sex.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2188827]Thai gogo bar chicks, the chick takes the money and goes to give it to a Thai male hooker to fuck them. There are Thai clubs for this that are open until daylight that a foreign male never steps into.[/QUOTE]There is a 2011 German documentary called W*H*O*R*E*'S GLORY (without the asterisks. the code thingy kicked in here) that shows this in action. In the Thailand prostitution section, the documentary filmmakers follow a handful of young female Bangkok fish bowl venue workers who indeed take the money their customers give them to a Bangkok "Host Bar", which is nothing less than a male brothel where Thai girls pay young Thai men to drink with them, romance them, dance with them and fuck them. In an interview, the mamasan at the fish bowl laments that one of her unofficial duties is to try to keep the girls from spending ALL of their money on those young boys. LOL. These are not old hags and washouts. They're typically young, attractive P4P girls you would not be surprised to find in the shops and go-go bars.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1327628/

And some guys actually fall for the bit that the money they give or send those girls is going to buy milk for their babies, get grandma that emergency surgery, buy a replacement for the phone someone stole, etc. lol.

If you check around online, you can probably find a stream of that documentary with English subtitles. This is a VERY enlightening documentary for punters to watch in more ways than just that one portion of the film. I think the versions on YouTube do not have English subtitles. Not sure.

[QUOTE=EihTooms;2188840]And some guys actually fall for the bit that the money they give or send those girls is going to buy milk for their babies, get grandma that emergency surgery, buy a replacement for the phone someone stole, etc. lol.[/QUOTE]Even funnier is that if CM or a couple other guys had said that in here then they would be stoned.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2188866]Even funnier is that if CM or a couple other guys had said that in here then they would be stoned.[/QUOTE]That's because CM would most likely have mixed facts with fantasy, exaggeration and generalization. EihTooms is not doing that so he's much more credible.

For a guy who is usually not gullible (to say the least) you seem to be quite gullible with respect to CM's stories, Mr. E.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;2188896]That's because CM would most likely have mixed facts with fantasy, exaggeration and generalization. EihTooms is not doing that so he's much more credible.

For a guy who is usually not gullible (to say the least) you seem to be quite gullible with respect to CM's stories, Mr. E.[/QUOTE]Yes Mr E is a CM fan. One would think Mr E could discern between a want to be monger CM is and a real monger but he doesn't? Go figure.

That story line is not unique and has been repeated in print in many reputable papers over the years. However, for me, a picture is worth 1000 words. A video, much more. I have seen some of the girls splurge on their bfs after getting paid. Think that is worse.

[QUOTE=EihTooms;2188840]There is a 2011 German documentary called W*H*O*R*E*'S GLORY (without the asterisks. the code thingy kicked in here) that shows this in action. In the Thailand prostitution section, the documentary filmmakers follow a handful of young female Bangkok fish bowl venue workers who indeed take the money their customers give them to a Bangkok "Host Bar", which is nothing less than a male brothel where Thai girls pay young Thai men to drink with them, romance them, dance with them and fuck them. In an interview, the mamasan at the fish bowl laments that one of her unofficial duties is to try to keep the girls from spending ALL of their money on those young boys. LOL. These are not old hags and washouts. They're typically young, attractive P4P girls you would not be surprised to find in the shops and go-go bars. [/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2188866]Even funnier is that if CM or a couple other guys had said that in here then they would be stoned.[/QUOTE]Potbellied old mongers do not want to know that their sweet hooker angels visit Vanidoso Bar on Perimeter Road to pay a skinny Pinoy to fuck them right after pulling a runner. It is bad for their egos! They come to AC to fuck hookers for an ego boost and to feel like sexy men. The fact that the girls pay Pinoys to fuck them with the old sex tourists' money is an inconvenient truth that many prefer to remain in the shadows. They like eating omelettes but would rather not think about the fact that the eggs came out of a chicken's ass. The baby milk money is really for the girl to tell the elderly mongers that they still look and fuck like an 18-year-old college boy. It is not really for the milk but rather for the flattery of being called a handsome man, being told, "Your kok so beg!" by a smiling tart.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;2190040]Potbellied old mongers do not want to know that their sweet hooker angels visit Vanidoso Bar on Perimeter Road to pay a skinny Pinoy to fuck them right after pulling a runner. It is bad for their egos! They come to AC to fuck hookers for an ego boost and to feel like sexy men. The fact that the girls pay Pinoys to fuck them with the old sex tourists' money is an inconvenient truth that many prefer to remain in the shadows. They like eating omelettes but would rather not think about the fact that the eggs came out of a chicken's ass. The baby milk money is really for the girl to tell the elderly mongers that they still look and fuck like an 18-year-old college boy. It is not really for the milk but rather for the flattery of being called a handsome man, being told, "Your kok so beg!" by a smiling tart.[/QUOTE]I've got no statistical backup for this, but I'm guessing that most "Potbellied old mongers" realize the difference between fantasy and reality, and thus, don't really give a damn what the girls do once they leave. The money that they (and we) pay for spending a couple of hours or a night with a far younger woman is the price of fantasy, and I speculate that most recognize it as such. Yes, we've all met older guys who cannot distinguish between the worlds of fantasy and reality, but I think that most can and do know the difference.

GE.

In this trip I met with 16 girls but scored with 14. Visited three cities Manila as well with extended tour of Bacolod and Cebu. None I picked in exchange of money, all are came from Dating sites or inter connection.

14th April (31 year old, Pinalove): Arrived at Terminal 2 from Bkk at 3. 30 PM. The girl was waiting for me at waiting area; when she saw me, she jumped & ran to me straight just breaking the fence and restriction. Lucky me, definitely I am her first foreign catch. So I take her in my arms and planted the kiss in front of all. While we were walking to the Taxi queue suddenly I observed a silent young lad was always with us. With shy smile she introduced he is her younger brother. Do I trembling? Being a polygamous I suppose to do so but I did not. Because I m experienced before girls with their family with one or numbers and sooner or later they leaving their girl with me. So I handed over a 500 bill to her for the brother and somewhere on our way he dropped out from our taxi and greets me to take care her sister. Yes I take care his sister very well because of it was long waiting to meet her with high hunger. She was a little bit shy side but I handled her very well and made her enthusiastic for sex.

15th April (28 year old, DIA): At 8 am my pina girl leaved because she have to join in her job and made me well relief. At 10 am I arrived at Genesis bus terminal beside Taft Ave MRT heading for Angeles. But what the hack they said probably they don't have any service for Angles today but there is a probability could be there a service at 2. 30 pm. Who is going to wait till 2. 30 pm. So I catch a Trike to shift me to 5 Star Terminal, Pasay. Trouble again the police stopped my Trike and declined to allow the Trike running on main road. Again drop out on the road and I decided to walk towards 5 Star Terminal and I know it is not far. Since I always travel light, walking was not a hack for me. 5 Star was in full service but by mistake I catch a non comfortable bus. It was wooden seat of 3 and 2 sitter in 108 peso and I got my seat in a 3 sitter bench. Texted to my girl about probable arriving time at Dau, since she is coming from Tarlac. Few months before she was working at front desk in a hotel in Angeles. Now she found a job in an international hotel at Dubai and I catch in her awaiting days for fly. While waiting for my girl at Dau I buy a drink from a store and dropped in another hack. Somehow I catch the attention of the sales girl of the shop. Again and again calling me to stand in front of her shop; describing she is single, no BF, she is good girl etc etc. With smile I told her I m waiting for my GF but she was not interested to give a shit and keep talking with me. Finally my girl arrived and I escaped with my smile. Two girls see each other; my girl smile to her but the sales girl did not replied any with her stone face. I was amazed and wonder to watching my girl because It was look like she just jumped out in front of me from my computer. Not a great looker but well mannered, elegantly dressed, very much a typical front desk girl. Since she was in cold side by sex appealing. So I was not in big hope but there was a big surprise was waiting for me. Once it started our making she got to open quickly and boy it was dynamite blasted on the bed. Several times I forcibly stopped my pounding because it make me afraid might be we are going to break the bed. The day was full of sweet and sour happenings and keep continue till 8 pm. She came out from wash room and declared she started her period just now and still she can go back home. Well I cannot stop the things happening and I welcomed to sleep alone.

16th April (38 year old, DIA): This girl was little sticky type so I was confused either I would meet her or not. Since last night the mess happened and I slept alone made me message her in Facebook to meet at 12 pm. At 11 am I texted her hotel details in Makati to meet me. And in return a blasted message hit me up that she is waiting for me at airport from 9.30 am. Then I recalled in past once in skype in a freaky mood I told her might be will arrive terminal 2 at 9.30 am. After having my msg in fb she went to terminal 2 straight way to catch me in airport. Finally she arrived my hotel lounge with an angry face like a red pitch. Makati is known to her like her palm because she is living there and working in Malate. Still in this age she act like a rookie in sex, not a great provider but even that I repeat her. Just my reserve hand if I mess somewhere.

17th April, 2018 I m on way to Bacold to meet my regular, whom I meet every time I visit Philipine.

17th April, 2018: Landed Bacolod, Silay airport at 1.30 pm for my regular one. First I met her 16 yr old son in US. Then I started to meet his 35 yr old mother in regular basis. After her son started to staying with his Mexican father she became alone and our meeting became like a fool moon in cloudy night. Suddenly appears in skype, demanding to meet and again disappearing for long days. This run and chase game continued until her age of 38. Then I lost her until she became 40. Two years before surprisingly she popup in skype and informed me she is in her home town Bacolod permanently and leaved everything in US with her son. If I am visiting Philippine can I be kind enough to visit her in her home city? Who the I am not to oblige her request since I was obsessed with her always. She is 42 now still the stunning and can bid any young sexy one.

She was waiting for me outside of airport and drives me straight to her house at Bacolod city. It's like hubby returned home from working abroad, pleasing and satisfying just being together. Cooking and kissing. Walking after dinner. Having sex before we sleep. Feeling shy for doing in day even just we two are in the house. All happens before I leave 18th April 10 pm.

18th April, 2018: She drive me to Celes terminal south bound for Cebu at 10 PM. She bought my ticket and make me promised to stay safe. I laugh with loud and said that is not in my hand either.

19th April (36 year old, Badoo): At 7 am arrived at Cebu North Bus Terminal; texted to my badoo girl that I am in Cbeu now. Quickly she answered back she was waiting for me since the date was pre-arranged. Decided to pick my girl from Osmania circle before I heading to my Airbnb room. She works in some hospital in maternity division so I was prepared I may going to face some medical attitude. As the medic peoples always think that the non medic people are stupid in hygienic issue. More over when she placed some lube pouches on the table I got the idea m going to fuck a dry pushy for the day.

20th April, 2018: The morning went smooth as it was expected. My Badoo girl leaved the room happily taking her transportation money to appear on her job. So I called my 24 yr old FC girl to meet me at Osmanial Blvd corner, in front of GV tower. She arrived 1 HR late and started to complain why we selected this place to meet because there are no Jolibee around there to eat since she is hungry. She prescribed she want to go to Colon street to find MacDonald and she want to ride a taxi. I declined and said in any way it is not the distance to have a taxi ride; we need just a little walk. She started to show her attitude and reluctantly walked with me until we arrive at Macdonald. On the table I informed her after the meal we have to ride the taxi to go to Osmania circle to my place. She again started to showing her attitude why I m not taking my room around this place and she don't want to ride taxi to go to osmanila circle. I just informed my room already taken and I selected our meeting place because I have something to do here before she arrive. Her attitude was annoying and warned me inside the room I may find hard time with this attitude girl. Finally I made up my mind, placed some money on the table and informed her, I m not taking her to my room, she may back home. She was not prepared for that, with her blank eyes, the expression was she cannot believe it. After leaving her in the MacDonald immediately I called my next option 31 yr old from DIA. She get surprised and asked me why one day early. She prepared herself to meet me on 21st not this day. Finally she said since she doesn't live in Cebu city and it was a wrong day. So I have to give her some time and definitely she is meeting with me in eve at Osmania circle. Agreed and when I met her in eve, my all vexation of the morning washed out. Her wide smile and open arm grab me in a hug. The promising hours started thereby m going to have good time this night.

21st April, 2018: Since I availed my scheduled girl a day before and gave me a free day. So I pulled out my reserve list and called out this 33 yr old Pina girl. Even it was not pre-scheduled but she agreed to meet in shortest time. As she said she was waiting for me, because it was informed her before our probable meeting days (did I Said? Sometime pinays tell a lie). Inside the room, all started going south. Right after that she started to express her surprise in my everything, OMG what is this, OMG what is that, OMG you said Pizza is junk food. Oh shit! This OMG girl pissed me off. Several times I planted cruel kiss to shut her moth, pounded her hard but right after that again started her OMG. I give up this OMG girl given her some money and politely informed that I would like to sleep alone in this night. After she leaved I was browsing fb using free Wifi suddenly this DIA girl of 40 yrs from Cebu pop-up in my Whatsapps; what I m doing. She blamed I promised her to meet this week but I m a lire. She was not in my meeting list but it was my alone night. So I let her know I'm in Cebu, Osmania circle. Finally she made it true and arrived my place at 2 am. It was very clear for what reason this 40 yr old girl arrived in my place, Oh boy definitely I was in need a blue that night.

22nd April, 2018 (38 year old, Tagged): 23rd April was my returning day to Manila. So I leaved Osmania circle and arrived at Mactan near airport. Moreover my tagged girl also living in Lapu Lapu; so meeting her would be easy if I stay in Mactan. This is the kind of girl rare to meet. The word "NO" completely deleted from her book. Can I do your ass, yes. Can I do your mouth, yes. Yes was in anything and anytime. Amazing.

Hi,

I am breaking my cherry on the PI sub-forum.

Anyways, I am going to Manila early July, not my first visit. Just in case you're wondering, I am in my early thirties, fairly good looking *so I heard* with soft facial features that makes me look much younger.

IMO the bar and "go go" scene in Manila is way too costly (compared to LOS) and I use prefer freelancers.

Unlike the past couple of times where I stayed in Malate, I am planning to stay in Makati.

I've never been to Café Havana but heard it's a good place to pick up FL. I have read and searched the forum but there isn't any really update information on the cost. Etc.

So without further ado I seek some advice on the following.

- Average cost of FL in Café Havana (ST / LT) . I know that everything is negotiable but is it possible to take girls LT at Havana?

- Assuming it's more expensive than the LA Café is the premium paid worth the benefit?

- Besides Malls and La Café any other places in Makati recommended for picking up FL?

- I know that that transportation is horrible. So should I try out Makati this time or I stick with Malate?

Any advice is much and highly appreciated.

[QUOTE=TaleCrypt1;2190805]Hi,

I am breaking my cherry on the PI sub-forum. Anyways, I am going to Manila early July, not my first visit. [/QUOTE]Not to be terribly negative TC, but where are your previous Field Reports? 5 posts total, 4 of them on the Lebanon thread. You are taking, without giving.

[QUOTE=TaleCrypt1;2190805]Hi,

- Average cost of FL in Caf Havana (ST / LT) . I know that everything is negotiable but is it possible to take girls LT at Havana?

- Assuming it's more expensive than the LA Caf is the premium paid worth the benefit?

- Besides Malls and La Caf any other places in Makati recommended for picking up FL?

- I know that that transportation is horrible. So should I try out Makati this time or I stick with Malate?

Any advice is much and highly appreciated.[/QUOTE]First advice is read Westie's FR response.

Second nugget of advice is RTFF as all your questions are answered on the board in fact an enormous amount of info is there for some of those easy questions especially #1 and 3.

And based on the F history you do 3 FRs a year so hopefully the third FR for 2018 is full of what you found.

[QUOTE=TaleCrypt1;2190805]Hi

Any advice is much and highly appreciated.[/QUOTE]Check out the thread regarding on-line dating and pen pals. Go back about 10 pages or so and read forward. Another thread about Manila hotels may help with your selection.

[QUOTE=TaleCrypt1;2190805]Hi,

I am breaking my cherry on the PI sub-forum.

Anyways, I am going to Manila early July, not my first visit. Just in case you're wondering, I am in my early thirties, fairly good looking *so I heard* with soft facial features that makes me look much younger.

.[/QUOTE]On this forum you would get more kudos if you said you were a bald, fat, old monger with a two inch cock.

[QUOTE=TaleCrypt1;2190805]

I've never been to Caf Havana but heard it's a good place to pick up FL. I have read and searched the forum but there isn't any really update information on the cost. Etc.

So without further ado I seek some advice on the following.

- Average cost of FL in Caf Havana (ST / LT) . I know that everything is negotiable but is it possible to take girls LT at Havana?

[/QUOTE]Yes, LT is possible at Havana for sure. Especially later in the night. Price depends on many factors, 2000 to 3. 5 k depending on the time / girl / you.

[QUOTE=TaleCrypt1;2190805]Hi,

I am breaking my cherry on the PI sub-forum.

Anyways, I am going to Manila early July, not my first visit. Just in case you're wondering, I am in my early thirties, fairly good looking *so I heard* with soft facial features that makes me look much younger.

IMO the bar and "go go" scene in Manila is way too costly (compared to LOS) and I use prefer freelancers.

Unlike the past couple of times where I stayed in Malate, I am planning to stay in Makati.

I've never been to Caf Havana but heard it's a good place to pick up FL. I have read and searched the forum but there isn't any really update information on the cost. Etc.

So without further ado I seek some advice on the following.

- Average cost of FL in Caf Havana (ST / LT) . I know that everything is negotiable but is it possible to take girls LT at Havana?

- Assuming it's more expensive than the LA Caf is the premium paid worth the benefit?

- Besides Malls and La Caf any other places in Makati recommended for picking up FL?

- I know that that transportation is horrible. So should I try out Makati this time or I stick with Malate?

Any advice is much and highly appreciated.[/QUOTE]I wouldn't put all your eggs in the Havana Cafe basket. If you are looking for younger, hotter girls you won't find them there unless you get really lucky. The main difference between Havana girls and LA Cafe girls is the former are older, dress nicer and charge a lot more (just because it is Makati and not Malate). I think the GoGo scene in Manila is cheaper than Bangkok; well, maybe not Burgos Street but EDSA Entertainment is.

[QUOTE=EihTooms;2188840]There is a 2011 German documentary called W*H*O*R*E*'S GLORY (without the asterisks. the code thingy kicked in here) that shows this in action. In the Thailand prostitution section, the documentary filmmakers follow a handful of young female Bangkok fish bowl venue workers who indeed take the money their customers give them to a Bangkok "Host Bar", which is nothing less than a male brothel where Thai girls pay young Thai men to drink with them, romance them, dance with them and fuck them. In an interview, the mamasan at the fish bowl laments that one of her unofficial duties is to try to keep the girls from spending ALL of their money on those young boys. LOL. These are not old hags and washouts. They're typically young, attractive P4P girls you would not be surprised to find in the shops and go-go bars.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1327628/

And some guys actually fall for the bit that the money they give or send those girls is going to buy milk for their babies, get grandma that emergency surgery, buy a replacement for the phone someone stole, etc. lol.

If you check around online, you can probably find a stream of that documentary with English subtitles. This is a VERY enlightening documentary for punters to watch in more ways than just that one portion of the film. I think the versions on YouTube do not have English subtitles. Not sure.[/QUOTE]You can actually watch this on Netflix now. Imagine my surprise when it scrolled past on my selections of movies I would be interested in.

[QUOTE=Kyper;2191238]You can actually watch this on Netflix now. Imagine my surprise when it scrolled past on my selections of movies I would be interested in.[/QUOTE]The AI engines some of these sites use to make recommendations can be a little scary at times. LOL.

Since 2012 I have been in Philippines 10 times and used for flights within the country almost every time Air Asia or Cebu Pacific. And almost ever the flights had delay – from 30 minutes up to 2 hours. But this time I had a new record – 4 hours delay for a flight from Manila to Cebu with Cebu Pacific. Instead scheduled departure at 12.30 in noon the airplane started short before 4. 30 pm At 3. 30 pm All the passengers got a delicious meal as compensation for this long waiting – a wishy-washy sandwich and a warm half liter of water.

The airplane arrived at 5. 45 pm In Cebu. All the passengers had to wait long for taking the luggage, but maybe 30 included me didn't get. It seemed, they forgot to transport because oft he chaos in Manila. As the band-conveyor stopped and it became clear, that the baggage was lost, all the people without luggage run to the counter to be the first for the advice of lost. It was a terrible jostling and any passengers became very aggressive. Behind the desk have been 2 young ladies and a middle age man, apparently the supervisor. The ladies didn't accept the advice of lost, only the man. So it took long time, till I was able to give off this advice to the man for affirmation. After almost one hour I got it back and was able to leave the airport. In meantime it was 6. 45 pm.

But the disaster wasn't at end. As I went out to the place of the departure of taxis, a big crowd of people waited for a taxi. I estimated the number of waiting people of more than 200. This never happened to me in Cebu during maybe 10 arrivals in the past years. And I noticed, that only 2 taxis left in one minute the place. So I estimated the time to wait of much more than one hour. I know the area there well, so I went to the bus station nearby. But there also maybe almost 100 people have been waiting for a bus. So normally it would been impossible to get the first bus. I went to the ticket counter and tried a trick, which had been sucessful. I told the lady behind the desk, I would be a senior citizen over 60 and showed her my passport. She accepted and let me stay in the begin of the line. As the bus arrived at 7 pm, I was able to enter the bus as one of the first and even got a place to sit. After one hour the bus arrived at S. M. Mall around 8 pm.

There I stopped a taxi. When I take a taxi, I ever ask before entering, if the driver use the meter. He agreed and so I took a seat. The driver immediately started the engine. But then I saw, the meter showed already 240 Peso. I asked the driver to reset. He refused and claimed, it would be the night rate for starting. I only laughed at him and threathened him to make a file at the Police. He resigned his attempt to cheat me and reset the meter to the usual 40 Peso. After a short ride to the Parklane Hotel I arrived there at 8. 15 pm.

I had an appointment with a classy lady in the 30th from DIA at 6 pm While waiting in Manila and later in Cebu Airport I sent her any SMS, so she was very understanding because my delay and later we had a great night together in Parklane.

[QUOTE=OldGerman;2192060]I had an appointment with a classy lady in the 30th from DIA at 6 pm While waiting in Manila and later in Cebu Airport I sent her any SMS, so she was very understanding because my delay and later we had a great night together in Parklane.[/QUOTE]It's more fun in the Philippines and great to see your story had a happy ending.

When things go wrong in Philippines they go very wrong. The crazy thing about your luggage is the Cebu Pacific knew your luggage was not on the flight before you left Manila.

In the other direction CEB to MNL I know that downstairs departure lounge so well. The end of day flights are usually late.

PL.

[QUOTE=PinaLove;2192069]It's more fun in the Philippines and great to see your story had a happy ending.

When things go wrong in Philippines they go very wrong. The crazy thing about your luggage is the Cebu Pacific knew your luggage was not on the flight before you left Manila.

In the other direction CEB to MNL I know that downstairs departure lounge so well. The end of day flights are usually late.

PL.[/QUOTE]I forgot to mention, that I got a call from a staff in Parklane Hotel around midnight, that I could take my luggage, Cebu Pacific would have just delivered. That was like a wonder for me, that it happened so soon.

[QUOTE=OldGerman;2192145]I forgot to mention, that I got a call from a staff in Parklane Hotel around midnight, that I could take my luggage, Cebu Pacific would have just delivered. That was like a wonder for me, that it happened so soon.[/QUOTE]This will sound very corny but I have also stayed in Parklane and my luggage was lost on my inbound flight too. I think in my case he luggage also arrived about 11 pm. There's a conspiracy.

[QUOTE=OldGerman;2192060]Since 2012 I have been in Philippines 10 times and used for flights within the country almost every time Air Asia or Cebu Pacific. And almost ever the flights had delay from 30 minutes up to 2 hours. But this time I had a new record 4 hours delay for a flight from Manila to Cebu with Cebu Pacific. Instead scheduled departure at 12.30 in noon the airplane started short before 4. 30 pm At 3. 30 pm All the passengers got a delicious meal as compensation for this long waiting a wishy-washy sandwich and a warm half liter of water.

But the disaster wasn't at end. As I went out to the place of the departure of taxis, a big crowd of people waited for a taxi. I estimated the number of waiting people of more than 200. This never happened to me in Cebu during maybe 10 arrivals in the past years. And I noticed, that only 2 taxis left in one minute the place. So I estimated the time to wait of much more than one hour. I know the area there well, so I went to the bus station nearby. But there also maybe almost 100 people have been waiting for a bus. So normally it would been impossible to get the first bus. I went to the ticket counter and tried a trick, which had been sucessful. I told the lady behind the desk, I would be a senior citizen over 60 and showed her my passport. She accepted and let me stay in the begin of the line. As the bus arrived at 7 pm, I was able to enter the bus as one of the first and even got a place to sit. After one hour the bus arrived at S. M. Mall around 8 pm..[/QUOTE]I never take late morning / early afternoon flights and definitely never an evening flight on CEB MNL or return. Always get the early ones before NAIA gets congested, flights delayed and hence the later flights get delayed. I learnt my lesson and now I never have issue.

I also use the same trick OG and once when there was a huge storm and water was flowing down Luzon Ave (Cebu for those who don't know) I was first in line for a taxi as I said am a senior. I look younger I know but am older than I look of course.

As for taxi I am surprised as I expect that in Manila (in fact it does happen) but is rare in Cebu. You did the right thing and it will work.

I go back to my original advice.

[QUOTE=Bushes;2192917]T, [/QUOTE]If you are in a generous mood, might I suggest bringing the young lady, AKA patient zero, to see the doc too and cover her visit. You can try communicating with her through Google Translate. The Android and web versions are slightly different but it will get the message across. My experience is that even though some Filipinas appear to speak and understand English, some actually don't understand nor articulate well. So it might be worth while to repeat yourself in different ways and have her repeat herself or ask questions in different ways. It takes a lot of patience. A foreign sponsor might get the doctor to treat her better. $$.

If she has something and they can treat her, she can pass the information to her friends who also visited you or someone else. It is a drop in the ocean but I feel every little bit helps.

IMHO, I don't think the French always set the best examples. Good luck.

[QUOTE=Theystolemyname;2193048]I did indeed go to Chong Hua for one round of tests. (after Hi-Precision came up with nothing) And they recommended me to the infectious disease doc I'm seeing as she's apparently one of the five best in Cebu.

I'm sure whatever I've got is all over the place. There was some French guy sitting next to me in the waiting room 2 months ago when this started, the whole time flipping through his Tinder matches. He went in before me and the doc said he had the exact same thing but he didn't appear to be slowing down.[/QUOTE]

Some things clear by itself. I had a similar experience once. Fucked very young girl who worked in a bar on Pedro clisante in Sosua. This was my first time and I did not anything about Sosua. This bar was in the corner going to the beach. It is not there anymore. She was very pretty. White skin, pretty face and a body to die for. I got little drunk and there was a guy I met at the airport onlanding. He introduced himself and said he can get me nice girls and can give me a ride to Sosua. But I declined saying I have booked a rental car.

While I was drinking he came over and asked for a beer. He saw me looking at the girl and he said he will talk to her. He did talk to her and she agreed to be with me but had to wait till her shift ended. Once in the room looking at her beautiful body and being drunk forgot to put condom. Felt very good with tight pussy. I kept her for 4 days but she would go to work and I would pick her up after her shift. We would go to puerto plata discos and dance. She was a great dancer and total GFE. After that never used condom.

Back home I felt raw at the penis head for at least three weeks and it hurt when peeing. Took antibiotics z- pack. Even after taking antibiotics still was not normal for a month or so. Next check everything came normal. Situation cleared itself. Went back in a couple of months looking for her. Nowhere to be seen. I believe some guy snapped her up. Tried asking the owner and she said girl just stopped showing up.

So just wait and see instead of loading up on antibiotics.

Stolennameman.

Get a few different Doctor's opinions and tests done and don't hesitate. Many advice here, some are good and one with syphiliic damaged brain cells. Best to get professional medical help on this.

One question, are you diabetic or border line? If so I have heard it might hinder recovery.

[QUOTE=OldGerman;2192145]I forgot to mention, that I got a call from a staff in Parklane Hotel around midnight, that I could take my luggage, Cebu Pacific would have just delivered. That was like a wonder for me, that it happened so soon.[/QUOTE]Reminds me of the time a friend of mine landed in NAIA and was going to Angeles right away and they lost his luggage. He waited and filed a lost baggage report at the airport and went on to Angeles. 2 days later his luggage was delivered to the AC hotel. The delivery truck was an old dump truck with an open roof. His luggage was smoking hot from the open roof. LOL.

[QUOTE=PinaLove;2192251]This will sound very corny but I have also stayed in Parklane and my luggage was lost on my inbound flight too. I think in my case he luggage also arrived about 11 pm. There's a conspiracy.[/QUOTE]Coincidence sometimes looks like conspiracy. But here's a rule of thumb I have learned from working in many different kinds of organizations: assume incompetence before malevolence. Malevolent conspiratorial actions require skills and coordination; incompetence requires neither of these.

I think you're giving CP too much credit by assuming they knew that Alter Deutscher's luggage was being left in Manila.

[QUOTE=SoapySmith;2193122]Coincidence sometimes looks like conspiracy. But here's a rule of thumb I have learned from working in many different kinds of organizations: assume incompetence before malevolence. Malevolent conspiratorial actions require skills and coordination; incompetence requires neither of these.
[/QUOTE]That's a good saying. I'm thinking about the airline security requirement that luggage doesn't fly if the checked-in pax doesn't board the flight. Another great corporate error. I assumed they cared.

All of that being said I have chatted a few CP flight attendants a bit of flirting and gotten zero phone numbers or any real attention or interest. Hey generally seem to be well educated and remunerated. They work long shifts.

[QUOTE=PinaLove;2194353]All of that being said I have chatted a few CP flight attendants a bit of flirting and gotten zero phone numbers or any real attention or interest. Hey generally seem to be well educated and remunerated. They work long shifts.[/QUOTE]And short and unattractive women need not apply.

[QUOTE=PinaLove;2194353]That's a good saying. I'm thinking about the airline security requirement that luggage doesn't fly if the checked-in pax doesn't board the flight. Another great corporate error. I assumed they cared.

[/QUOTE]A lot of airlines have this policy. There is a recognised risk of terrorists checking in rigged baggage, but not taking the flight.

[QUOTE=AussieGaigin;2194482]A lot of airlines have this policy. There is a recognised risk of terrorists checking in rigged baggage, but not taking the flight.[/QUOTE]Most good carriers nowadays will not let baggage go unattended in the hold of an aircraft.

I fly a lot and at times we are delayed as someone has checked in the bags, not appeared at the gate and these must be removed. It is a real pain when that happens especially on a full A380 but better safe than sorry.

As for the smaller carries and the more third world countries this can be slap dash at best.

[QUOTE=AussieGaigin;2194482]A lot of airlines have this policy. There is a recognised risk of terrorists checking in rigged baggage, but not taking the flight.[/QUOTE]This has been airline policy ever since 9/11.

I have been delayed numerous times all over the world by the need to remove checked bags from the plane that belong to someone who checked in the bag but didn't board.

It even happened on a domestic flight Sydney to Melbourne.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;2194531]This has been airline policy ever since 9/11.

I have been delayed numerous times all over the world by the need to remove checked bags from the plane that belong to someone who checked in the bag but didn't board.

It even happened on a domestic flight Sydney to Melbourne.[/QUOTE]You will also hear lots of page calls for last passenger to board, telling them that if they do not board immediately, their luggage will be removed. Often the people board late and the plane departs but once they open the baggage compartment to get the bags the passanger will be denied boarding.

I saw that at an adjacent gate once, the passenger arrived a minute after they opened the baggage compartment and was denied boardimng. They were not happy and everyone within ear shot of them know it.

Does anyone have experience with bringing a pinay to the USA for a few weeks on a tourist visa? The girl will need to apply for the visa and the gentleman will need to assume financial support for that trip. In looking around on the web I think you can do this by affidavit. The guy has a good job in a very vanilla industry so hopefully there will not be a suspicion of sex trafficking.

Any experiences, hints or suggestions?

[QUOTE=NiceGuy99;2197163]Does anyone have experience with bringing a pinay to the USA for a few weeks on a tourist visa? The girl will need to apply for the visa and the gentleman will need to assume financial support for that trip. In looking around on the web I think you can do this by affidavit. The guy has a good job in a very vanilla industry so hopefully there will not be a suspicion of sex trafficking.

Any experiences, hints or suggestions?[/QUOTE]Where does this gentleman assume financial support for that trip come from? That is not part of any tourist visa process that I have ever heard of. If it was that simple, this place would be swarming with third world hookers. The person requesting the visa must show they have enough to support themselves. They want bank statements. They must also prove good reason to return, such as property in their name and a very good job. A Brazilian friend of mine tried to pull that so and so will be responsible for me. They asked, well what if something happens to so and so? She had no answer for that. Denied!

I have helped several friends get a visa, but these were by no means desolate chicks that would depend on my care. The times that we had seen each other I would always make sure to take pictures together in different situations showing that we have a history together and I didn't just meet this person on the internet last night. Then I would make a letter saying they would stay with me on such and such dates and include a picture of my passport and driver's license on the letter. The girl would take the letter and all of our photos to the interview with her. But like I said, these were chicks with places to live and jobs to return to. If you are just trying for some educationless, jobless scalawag to come see you then they pretty much know it is sex trafficking. And in the words of Judge Judy, it ain't going to happen.

Difficult if the girls is not a professional; as in a trade other than in the sex trade. If visiting family members, they get also suspicious. But can be done.

[QUOTE=NiceGuy99;2197163]Does anyone have experience with bringing a pinay to the USA for a few weeks on a tourist visa? The girl will need to apply for the visa and the gentleman will need to assume financial support for that trip. In looking around on the web I think you can do this by affidavit. The guy has a good job in a very vanilla industry so hopefully there will not be a suspicion of sex trafficking.

Any experiences, hints or suggestions?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2197175]Where does this gentleman assume financial support for that trip come from? That is not part of any tourist visa process that I have ever heard of. If it was that simple, this place would be swarming with third world hookers. The person requesting the visa must show they have enough to support themselves. They want bank statements. They must also prove good reason to return, such as property in their name and a very good job. A Brazilian friend of mine tried to pull that so and so will be responsible for me. They asked, well what if something happens to so and so? She had no answer for that. Denied!

I have helped several friends get a visa, but these were by no means desolate chicks that would depend on my care. The times that we had seen each other I would always make sure to take pictures together in different situations showing that we have a history together and I didn't just meet this person on the internet last night. Then I would make a letter saying they would stay with me on such and such dates and include a picture of my passport and driver's license on the letter. The girl would take the letter and all of our photos to the interview with her. But like I said, these were chicks with places to live and jobs to return to. If you are just trying for some educationless, jobless scalawag to come see you then they pretty much know it is sex trafficking. And in the words of Judge Judy, it ain't going to happen.[/QUOTE]And it can be even more complicated. One time I asked a Philippine friend to come visit me in Kuala Lumpur. No visa granted for her in Malaysia. But she was denied to leave the Philippines by their imigrationsofficers in the airport. They asked why she should go. She answered honestly "to meet boyfriend". They was scared that it was a victim for human T. I booked a new ticket for her for the next day and send her copy of some fligts we have done together. Normaly I never take pictures but luckily we also had a couble of pictures. She also printed some conversations from Messenger. Then she get permision to leave the country.