The big thing I will say from my experience there: the people are AMAZING. I didn’t get ripped off, everyone was so friendly, got to play basketball with a group of kids and had a blast. And the nature is incredible.
It also had some of the most downtrodden areas I’ve ever seen, some of the biggest displays of wealth disparity, and after a few weeks on different islands, Manilla felt more like a theme park for the rich than any kind of city.
Overall, really recommend it, but try going off the beaten path!
I think you’re going a little bit too hard on the denial. I get you’ve lived there and seen your share of things, but that stuff IS more present.
I do appreciate that you don’t want to let these things dissuade others from traveling there, but honestly, I would have benefitted greatly from hearing that warning before visiting Manila.
Are there risks? Sure, especially if you purposefully wander into shady activity. If you don’t, though, it’s largely a normal, albeit economically challenged, place. And the people, food and natural environment are great.
The big thing I will say from my experience there: the people are AMAZING. I didn’t get ripped off, everyone was so friendly, got to play basketball with a group of kids and had a blast. And the nature is incredible.
It also had some of the most downtrodden areas I’ve ever seen, some of the biggest displays of wealth disparity, and after a few weeks on different islands, Manilla felt more like a theme park for the rich than any kind of city.
Overall, really recommend it, but try going off the beaten path!
Removed by mod
There should be a disclaimer on your comment that says you don’t know what you’re talking about.
I think you’re going a little bit too hard on the denial. I get you’ve lived there and seen your share of things, but that stuff IS more present.
I do appreciate that you don’t want to let these things dissuade others from traveling there, but honestly, I would have benefitted greatly from hearing that warning before visiting Manila.
Are there risks? Sure, especially if you purposefully wander into shady activity. If you don’t, though, it’s largely a normal, albeit economically challenged, place. And the people, food and natural environment are great.