"I'M STARTING TO LIKE BRISBANE"

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Temperature: 28 Degrees Celsius

Track of the day: 'Land Down Under,' - Men at Work

"Okay, Singapore officially has the nicest airport we've ever been in," Alecs says as we check our e-mail at one of the many free internet kiosks located all over the three terminals. "Ooo, this pamphlet I picked up says there's a free movie theater upstairs in terminal two," I say excitedly, trying to map out how to get there. As we walk past several high end duty free shops, we eagerly point out the many activities available to transit passengers. Dozens of restaurants, cafes, a spa, sleeping room, mini hotel, rooftop swimming pool, gym, x-box game room, arcades and a movie theater are among them. "Check this out," Alecs says stopping at a series of small boxes each with a key and electronic application charger inside, "you can charge anything you want and just take the key, returning when it's fully charged." After admiring this sheer piece of genius we continue onto the theater but not before stopping for an iced coffee en route. We arrive midway through a movie, sneak in and settle down for the next two shows. As always, time flies by and within the hour we are in the air, heading to Brisbane, leaving Asia behind. "Well," Alecs sighs, "this is it, we're on our way to Australia, goodbye Asia." We catch up on a series of in flight movies for the seven hour trip to Australia's east coast and even manage a few hours of sleep. "Alecs look at that," I say, nudging him awake and pointing out the airplane window several hours later. "Wow that's beautiful," he says as we both gaze into the rising sun which has turned the horizon a sensational orange hue. "G'day mates," our pilot says over the speaker, making Alecs and I smile, "we'll be touching down in Brissie in 15 minutes, so please fasten your seat belts and ensure your luggage is stowed safely in the overhead storage bins or under the seat in front of you." Alecs leans over my shoulder to see our first glimpse of the coastal city that is to be our home for some time. The plane circles over the towering city centre skyscrapers, across the harbour and onto the tarmac. "Brisbane really is right next to the ocean," I say excitedly, pointing out the islands surrounding the city. We disembark the plane and follow the other Aussies through the terminal to immigration and anxiously await our turn. "Working holiday visa?" the immigration officer asks us, checking our arrival cards. "Yes," we reply in unison, keeping our fingers crossed that everything goes smoothly, "welcome to Australia." We apprehensively take back our passports and continue onto the luggage claim area. "That's it?" I whisper to Alecs incredulously, "no questions about why we're here or anything, just welcome to Australia?" Alecs smiles, "I guess so but I'm not complaining," he adds. Nodding my head we head to the tourist information to find transport to our hotel.  A friendly 'airport greeter' helps us arrange a coach bus to our motel and gives us come advise on 

finding an apartment. "So what's your first impression of Australia?" I ask Alecs after crashing on the bed and turning up the A/C. "It's a lot like Calgary," he says, opening the patio doors, "only warmer and there's palm trees." Before long we're both fast asleep without getting the chance to explore Aussie Land. 

"I think we've made a mistake," I say to Alecs as we sit on the train the next morning. Early this morning we met up with a young woman and her three-year old daughter who are renting out a room in their suburb townhouse some thirty minutes from the city. Feeling desperate to find a place to live we agreed to rent out the room which has a shared bathroom with the three-year old little girl. "You think so too?" Alecs asks as we prepare to get off the train, "I think we should contact her and let her know we're not interested anymore." We agree to continue our search for something with a better location and at least a private bathroom. Unfortunately today is Anzac Day, a national holiday and tomorrow is Sunday so we'll have to rely on the Internet until then.

"That apartment building we wanted to check-out opens in ten minutes," I say to Alecs as we sit under a palm tree at the motel on Monday afternoon, "should we go have a look?" Alecs nods his head and we set off towards the train station where the most perfectly situated apartment complex has a vacancy sign out front. "Hey there," Alecs says to the man at the office, "we were wondering if there are any vacancies at the moment?" The tall Aussie man behind the desk checks the books shaking his head and our hearts drop as this was the apartment we had our hearts set on. "Sorry mates, not until May first," he says. Alecs and I look at each other quickly calculating how many days are left in April - finally realizing there are only four. "We'll take it," Alecs says as he notices the line behind us getting longer, "we'll move in on May 01." Jerry, the man behind the desk takes our deposit and lets us know Internet, utilities, a TV with 12 cable

channels and A/C are all included in the reasonably priced rent. Alecs and I quite literally skip out of the building onto Brunswick Street, one of the main roads in our new community - Fortitude Valley. We continue onto the trendy part of  Brunswick Street, a vehicle-free cobblestone road that reminds us of Stephen Avenue. "How about a victory dinner at McDonalds," Alecs says noticing the golden arches. "Wow, we're really moving

 up in the world eh?" I say as we stand in the line awaiting our turn. Alecs orders a quarter pounder while I choose the chicken Ceasar wrap combo. "Would you like that chicken crispy or seared," the young clerk asks me. "Yes, its for take out," I reply reaching for some napkins and straws. The young boy looks at me dumbfounded and I quickly realize this was not the answer he was looking for. Alecs and I manage to laugh about this a few moments later and we have a good chat about how different

the Aussie language is despite technically being English. "I can't believe we found our own apartment in the most brilliant location and it only took us three days," Alecs says as we lie in bed that night, "I couldn't be happier."

Having decided to explore the downtown area of Brisbane this morning Alecs and I are now walking down the busy Queen Street Mall full of bustling outdoor restaurants, trendy shops and cafes and a swanky-looking theater. We catch a movie at The Regent, equipped with royal spiral staircases, crystal chandeliers and lush red carpet. After watching Gran Torino with Clint Eastwood we head back to Central Station, a historic old sandstone building with a large clock fashioned above 

giving it a wonderfully timeless look. A couple days later we are passing by the same train station searching for Story Bridge, a famous landmark here in Brissie that connects our community, Fortitude 

Valley to Kangaroo Point, just steps from the CBD (central business district aka downtown). "I see it, I see it," I say pointing to the river behind a few large buildings, "the bridge is just over there." We walk a few minutes more and find the massive cantilever bridge, spanning the Brisbane River and walk across to a beautifully manicured park below. We stop for a while to take in the stunning city skyscrapers on one side and the awe impressive Story Bridge on the other. "You know what would make this a perfect day," I say to Alecs as we soak in the midday heat at the sand bar along the river. "Fish and Chips," Alecs asks, as though reading my mind.  We head back to a small cafe with tons of character and in an 

attempt to save money we decide to split an order. "One fish and c

hip burger," Alecs says taking a seat by the window which looks out on the bridge. A few minutes later our meal arrives, a burger with battered fish, lettuce, tomatoes, sauce and yes - french fries inside the burger. "Oh my god," Alecs says after taking his first bite, "this is so good," he says taking several more bites in quick succession. After our delicious lunch we decide to spend the rest of the day exploring the city yet again. 

"We're moving in today," Alecs says excitedly at the ridiculously early hour of 8AM, "let's pack and move." We make a smooth transition into our small but quaint apartment and can't help but smile as we make the bed with our new sheets and stock the cupboards and fridge. The new place is a two and a half minute walk to the

train station (yes we timed it), is in the heart of China Town, a fifteen minute walk into the city or 1 train stop and a four minute walk to a Filipinio Grocery store (which is of course crucial). 'This is perfect," Alecs says as we walk to the city to pick up a few more things from the superstore Target, "and the best thing is we have it all to ourselves." It does feel much more liberating to know that we have our own space with our own bathroom, especially due to its location. Walking down Ann Street towards downtown we pass the most magnificent cathedral, looking more like a European castle than a church and only a few steps further is a circular pillared structure overlooking another view of the city. "I'm really starting to like Brisbane," I say to Alecs as we head into Target. We purchase a pot. frying pan and two white square iron-chef-like plates that make me quite happy. "I'm so excited to cook in our own kitchen," I say to Alecs on our way back to the apartment, "and unpack." Alecs stocks the fridge and sets up the electronics while I wash down every square inch of the entire apartment, from the ceiling to the underside of the bed frame. Once I finish with that I spray antibacterial cleaner on everything before sealing every inch of space with cockroach killer. "Just being on the safe side," I say to Alecs who looks slightly amused by my antics, "you never know how dirty the last residents might have been." I then proceed to arrange our clothes by item and colour in the closet before tackling the cupboards. "I am most excited about the cupboards," I say to Alecs, who has finished setting up the Wii and computers on the desk. Alecs comes over to see the cupboards where he finds all the boxed or packaged items decanted into clearly labeled containers while the remaining items are arranged by size. "You're such a dork," he says, barely noticing the perfection of it all. I quickly whip up some tacos, potatoes and broccoli for dinner arranging them on our new plates - which make everything look delicious. "I love these plates," I say to Alecs admiring the arrangement of the food. "I love the food," Alecs says with his mouth full, "we should have hot chocolate later. Before we get ready for bed Alecs brews some minty hot chocolates, topped with whip-cream and cinnamon before we pack it in for the night, happy to be in our own place.

Until Next time so long,

Alecs and Meg in Brisbane

"MAMIMISS KITA (I'M GONNA MISS YOU)"

BANGKOK, THAILAND

Temperature: 31 Degrees Celsius

Track of the day: "Never Say Goodbye," Bon Jovi

"One thing about my family that you'll learn," Alecs says as we sit at the kitchen table, "is that my aunts and uncles won't fight over money, but they will certainly fight over chocolate." This is coming after a long conversation with Tita Menchie about the many problems surrounding the chocolate Alecs' mom sent to the Philippines inside the infamous box. Among many other things seven bars of chocolate were sent, one for each brother and sister, but it seems news of the coveted chocolate has spread like wildfire and everyone is vying for a piece. Alecs, B.A. and I can't help but laugh as Tita Menchie worries over something we all consider to be so 

meaningless. "I think I know what to bring as gifts next time we come eh," I say to Alecs, digging into breakfast which consists of eggs, pork sausage and of course rice. Alecs nods his head handing me my medicine and insisting I take it this very moment. "Yes sir," I say obediently taking a spoonful of Robitussin, mocking him all the while. Kristine walks past me carrying little Jupiter and I can't help but pick them both up smothering them in kisses - kids and dogs, a recipe for happiness! The morning is getting warmer and I excitedly take a cold shower that makes me feel worlds better. B.A. sets up the PlayStation 2, another one of the many items inside 'The Box' and we all enjoy playing the many games that also came with it. Tita Menchie in particular seems to like the Simpson's game and spends quite some time learning the controls and running over old ladies for bonus points. After dinner that night we set up our Wii for everyone to play and end up spending hours laughing as we compete in a few tennis, bowling and boxing matches. "I think I'm going to make it a late night," Alecs says sighing, "I just don't want it to end and we're leaving tomorrow." We all agree a late night sounds like the perfect plan so Alecs and B.A.  join each other in a more than comical Wii Boxing match that has them punching and jabbing the air as they jeer or whine with every virtual hit. After putting

Kristine to bed, Tita Menchie joins us in the living room where try to unsuccessfully make time slow down. "Can't we just cancel our flights and spend the next year here instead," Alecs whines as he sits on a chair strumming his new guitar. "I wish," I say, thinking about the possibility of this, "but we're going to like Australia, I'm sure of it." Despite knowing more adventures are awaiting us, it's still hard to say goodbye, especially when family is involved. We are all finally too tired to stay up and reluctantly head to bed. 

"Mamimiss kita, (I'm gonna miss you)," I say, squeezing Kristine tight, not wanting to let go, "alagaan mo si Pluto at si Jupiter okay (take care of Pluto and Jupiter ok)." I fight back tears as we catch a Jeepney one last time, glancing back at the house, missing it already.  Tita Menchie and Kristine join us for the

journey on the Jeepney to our bus, delaying the inevitable. B.A. Alecs and I take our seats on the bus and bid Tita Menchie and Kristine farewell. As the bus departs we wave out the window, wiping away tears and sitting in almost complete silence for the three hour trip to Calamba. I glance at Alecs who has nothing comforting to say and the reality that our trip is coming to an end begins to set in. A few hours later Alecs spots the sign for our stop and we gather our luggage to disembark. Being the helpful and considerate cousin B.A. is,

he insists on waiting with us until Tito Noel arrives. "Thank you so much B.A.," Alecs says, "we had such a great time and it's all because of you." Indeed, B.A. really did make this experience extra special and we both cannot wait until our next visit. Just as it begins raining, Tito Noel and Tito Hans arrive and we quickly give B.A. a hug and hop in the car. "Hi Tito," Alecs says, fastening his seat belt and adjusting to the plush leather seats of their air-conditioned SUV, "how was Tito Hans' birthday party last night?" Yesterday Tito Noel and Tito Hans had a catered Mexican themed birthday party at their new house with over a hundred guests. Due to the late arrival of our box from Canada we missed this party and jealously listen to the details of the nights events which sound like the party of the century. Back at their house we have little time to catch up before Kuya Sherwin picks

us up to have dinner together one last time. He takes us to a great little pizza restaurant overlooking Taal Volcano with some delicious favorites from home including chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks and fettuccine Alfredo. Trying to stretch out the time we move over to Starbucks and chat away the night. Sighing heavily we succumb to the clock and before we know it we are wishing each other well and trying to sneak into the house without waking Tito Hans or Tito Noel up. 

"Wow Tito those orchids look great," I say the next morning after we finish breakfast, gesturing to a plethora of beautiful hanging plants creating a colourful floral wall. "We'll be getting a new addition to our family this Friday," Tito Hans tells us as the sun begins to warm up the air, "a friend of ours is bringing over a new puppy." Feeling quite jealous I congratulate them nonetheless,

wishing I could have my own dogs with me right now. "We should get going to the airport," Tito Noel says after some time and both our spirits drop as we realize this is the end of our Philippine journey - at least until next time. Hugging Tito Hans and leaving behind the resort house we sadly join Tito Noel and the driver, Jay heading to Manila. Tito Noel runs some errands, giving us the chance to see the awe impressive Mall of Asia one last time before he drops us off at the airport. "Thank you so much Tito," Alecs says as we stand on the curb of the airport departures, "we really appreciate how much you guys did for us." With that we are off to catch our plane and before we know it we are on the tarmac looking out the window, solemnly reflecting on our journey here. "Ladies and Gentlemen we are now beginning our descent into Bangkok," says the Captain over the airplane intercom, "current local time is 11:45PM." I look over at Alecs who gives me

the kind of sigh that seems like he's carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. "We'll be back there in no time," I assure him as the city lights come closer and closer, "and we have Australia to look forward to, don't forget that." Nodding his head he packs up our bags and we wait for the seat belt sign to turn off. Outside the airport we hail a cab and head back to the familiar streets and back to the same hotel. After checking in at the Trinity Silom Hotel counter we are given the keys to room 220. "That's so weird?" Alecs says as we take the elevator upstairs, "we were room 220 last time we were here." It seems rather fitting that we started and ended our journey in the same country, the same city, the same hotel and even the same room. At nearly 2AM we decide to hit the sack, dreaming of the Philippines.

"Do you remember what station to get off at," Alecs asks while we sit in the skytrain heading to Paragon Mall. "Yea, it's this stop here," I say pointing out the window, "see that's the mall right there." Paragon is one of the biggest shopping malls in Asia with hundreds of stores, high end shops, restaurants, a theater and as I notice upon entering- an aquarium in the basement. "Siam Ocean World," I say, pointing to a sign, "wanna go?" Alecs nods his head in excitement and we purchase our tickets to southeast Asia's largest aquarium with hundreds of different ocean species. We begin our tour through Zone 1 - Weird and Wonderful - which features giant crabs, sea snakes, strange exotic fish, moray eels and even brightly coloured sea horses. "This is really neat," Alecs says as we stare at the giant 'Deep Reef' aquarium full of huge fish, "I'm glad we decided to come." We race through the exhibit to find the 'Live Mermaid show' in the Open Ocean section. Rushing past prehistoric looking fish, otters, penguins, reef sharks and finally

into a stunning massive glass aquarium filled with sharks, manta rays and hundreds more fish. "Wow look at that," I say to Alecs pointing at a huge shark with jagged and scary looking teeth swimming directly above us. "I know," Alecs say, "and look, the mermaids are in the tank with them," he adds pointing to three young women swimming through the water performing a beautiful dance for the massive crowds watching on. We join the group of people for an incredible display of athletic ability, lung-capacity and theater all mixed in with sharks and many other predators. As it's almost time for our movie to start upstairs we decide to make our way to the exit but not before Alecs purchases 

some bubblegum flavored cotton candy. On the fourth floor Alecs drags me to the side where several luxury car stores display their prized vehicles behind glass windows. Alecs drools as he moves from one window to the next admiring the cars from every angle. "Hun, we're going to miss the movie," I say, finally dragging him away and heading to the theater upstairs. We walk into the VIP theater and purchase two tickets to 'Race to Witch Mountain' and wait in the swanky lobby for the doors to open. "You can take your seats now," the attendant says, guiding us to our plush leather seats. We immediately recline in our chairs, throwing the silk blankets over ourselves, propping a pillow behind our heads and digging into our popcorn. "Now this is how you watch movies," Alecs says sitting back down after rising for the national anthem, "I could get used to this." We manage to stay awake for the duration of the movie this time, although it takes quite restraint not to succumb to the comfort and relaxation of our seats. The evening ends with a delicious Italian meal at the

the mall before we return for our last night on the road. "I can't believe it's really over," Alecs says as we  settle into bed, "it seems like just yesterday we were in this room beginning this three-month trip." It does seem like this vacation has gone by in a flash and although Australia is another adventure awaiting us, we can't help but feel sad that this particular adventure has ended. "We have the rest of our lives to do more trips just like this," I say closing my eyes, "we just have to keep our eye on the goal."

Until next time so long,

Alecs and Meg in Bangkok

"MANY A MAN COULD HAVE MADE A MEAL OUT OF THAT"

LUCENA CITY, PHILIPPINES

Temperature: Hotter than hell in San Mateo, 34 Degrees Celsius in Lucena

Track of the day: "Kaleidoscope World," Francis M.
"I'll take it," Alecs says to the sales clerk at SM Mall here in Lucena, handing over the guitar he spent nearly an hour picking out. This particular guitar is for Alecs' godson Joel who celebrated his fifteenth birthday this weekend. Joel had expressed interest in learning to play the guitar and after seeing his musical talent on the piano Alecs was convinced he needed a guitar as well

The clerk packs up the guitar and we head out to catch a jeepney to Tita Vinna's house where Joel and his family are staying. Tied up in front of the house are three dogs including Ate Anna's three-month old black lab. "I love the Philippines," I say, bending down to play with the dogs as Alecs gives Joel his guitar. Back at the house we join the rest of the gang for our last night all together before Kuya Sherwin and his family must head home. Before I know it we've lost complete track of time and it's already morning, but Kuya Sherwin decides against his original plan of an early departure. As though in light speed the day flashes by and we are now standing outside the house bidding farewell to Kuya Sherwin, Ate Prime, Shawn and baby Phoebe. Jupiter and Pluto join the rest of us as we wave goodbye to the back of their car before Alecs picks up the guitar he couldn't resist buying and

starts singing with B.A. I continue sitting outside with Kristine and the dogs enjoying the warm night air until Tita Menchie calls us in for dinner. Sitting at the kitchen table are Alecs and B.A. staring at a stack of coins, a bemused dopey grin on both their faces. "What are you two up to?" I ask, spooning some arrozcaldo (rice soup) into my bowl. "It's the leaning tower of peso," Alecs says, obviously quite smug with the somewhat witty name they both came up with. "Dorks," I mutter under my breath and shaking my head as they reluctantly take their masterpiece down to make room for their dinner plates. "So what's on the agenda for tomorrow," I ask between delicious bites of my very favorite Filipino meal which of course features rice along with chicken in a tasty broth. "We're going to Unisan, which is about an hour away from Lucena," B.A. tells me, finishing his rice

soup and moving onto the main course of rice and fried chicken. "Unisan is where Tita Judy lives, as well as a couple of my mom's aunt's and uncles," Alecs adds.  I finish my third helping of arrozcaldo as Alecs pushes his chair out from the table, sighing and yawning. "Well, many a man could have made a meal out of that," he says with the biggest smile on his face as he looks for my reaction. "Oh I'm sorry, I thought you were Alecs not grandpa," I say laughing at his mimic of one of my grandfather's 'Glenisms' (a common phrase he says after nearly every big hearty meal). We reminisce about home for a while and Alecs recounts the time grandpa deliberately cut off the water at the cabin while Alecs was in the shower, soap still in his hair. "When I came downstairs her grandfather was just laughing," Alecs tells B.A., recalling that particular weekend in Sylvan Lake, "then he asked me how my shower was." We continue on like this for some time before packing it in for another night.

"Meg wake up, we're almost here," Alecs whispers, nudging me on the minibus heading to Unisan the next morning. I stretch my arms, tie my hair back and look out the window to find a beautiful coastline dotted with looming palm trees, the brilliant blue sky framing the crystal waters. Moments later B.A. knocks on the roof of the van, signaling to the driver that this is

where we want to get off. As we walk down a small grass path Tita Judy comes to meet us, guiding us to her home. Inside I meet Kuya Jo-Jo, her eldest son, for the first time and am then whisked off to the kitchen where you guessed it more food awaits us. Almost immediately after lunch we all hail a couple tricycles for the quick trip to visit Lolo Freddie and Lola Azun, one of the aunt and uncle's of Alecs' mom. Inside sits an impossibly sweet old lady in a rocking chair whose impressive English skills take me aback for a moment. Much to my surprise and excitement we are fed only a platter of crackers and some fresh juice instead of another meal. After visiting for some time, Lolo Freddie, Alecs, B.A., Tita Judy, Bea and I bid the others farewell as we head to the local graveyard to visit some relatives grave sights. As we walk through the small town everyone notices the new faces and either comes over to chat, waves or looks on with curiosity. A short ten minute walk away has us to the gates of the grave where Alecs' grandmother and grandfather as well as Tita Judy's late husband rest. After paying our respects we bid everyone farewell and catch the world's slowest

bus back to Lucena. "I'm glad we made it to Unisan this year," Alecs says about halfway through the ride, "I think it made Tita Judy happy." Awaiting us back at the house in Lucena is another enticing filipino meal before another early night in preparation for tomorrow's trip to Manila. 

A bright start to the morning has us on a bus bound for Manila, the capital of the Philippines. A four hour trip, plus a taxi ride has us at our hotel in Quezon City, part of the greater metro Manila. We check-in to our two floor room with a bathroom, living room and kitchen on the main floor and the bedrooms and another bathroom on the second. "This is my first time in a hotel," B.A. tells us tossing his backpack in his bedroom and then flipping through the T.V. channels. "Well I hope you enjoy it then," I say

"we wanted to stay here as a thank you for taking the time to be with us this entire time," I add. With that we leave the hotel and head to Tita Baby's house, another one of Alecs' mom's sisters who lives just outside Manila in San Mateo. My throat started hurting the moment we arrived in Manila and now it's a full-blown cold that has me coughing and feeling feverish. "We're going to stop at Mercury Drugs and get some medicine when we get off okay," Alecs says after seeing how ill I look. Shortly thereafter we arrive in San Mateo and pick up some ginger ale, fishermen's friends and medicine before walking to Tita Baby's house. The heat lays on us like a wet blanket and we all complain about how sticky our skin feels. "It's so much hotter here than in Lucena," I say wiping the sweat off my forehead. Alecs musters up a nod, unable to speak as the heat envelopes us, but moments later we are sitting at the kitchen table with three electric fans facing us. We greet everyone and I realize that last time I visited this house I was sick as well. "They must think I'm always sick," I whisper to Alecs, feeling guilty about it, "I feed bad." Alecs just tells me not to worry and to simply take it easy so I can get better soon. Back in Lucena Alecs purchased a rather fitting t-shirt which says 'Powered by Balut' on it (the partially developed duck egg he loves so much) which he now shows off to his family. "Tita look," he says jutting out his chest and pointing to his t-shirt, "powered by Balut." Tita Baby just shakes her head, laughing at his childish goofiness, but Alecs remains quite smug with himself. "I think you've changed Kuya

Alecs," B.A. tells me later that day. I look up from what I'm doing, "for the better or for the worse?" I ask a little afraid to hear the answer. "For the better," he laughs, "he's more relaxed, goofy and fun to be around. He used to be so serious." "Serious?" I say completely bemused, "are we talking about the same Alecs?" We spend most of our time in Joenel's attached office which has air-conditioning before heading to the eldest of Alecs' mom's siblings - Tita Tessie's house. A short five-minute tricycle ride away has us at the buzzing house full with people. I meet several more of Alecs' cousins and their kids and Tito Edwin (the only brother of Alecs' mom's 7 siblings) and his wife Tita Lenny, who have the best English skills of anyone in the family. Unfortunately my cold is now full-blown and I am barely able to sit up straight let alone carry a decent conversation. I try my best to be friendly but I become more and more dizzy as time passes by. Noticing this Alecs catches up as quickly as possible and then makes an early departure so I can rest back at the hotel. "Next time I promise not to be sick," I say as we walk down the hallway to our room, "I wish I was feeling better because your family is so much fun we could have been out all night." Alecs assures me next time will be better and sends me up to bed while he and B.A. talk well into the night. 

The next morning we wait for Tita Menchie and Kristine who are coming all the way from Lucena to meet us here. Back in Canada, Alecs and I shipped a box to the Philippines full of work clothes, shoes, ties, our Nintendo Wii, Alecs' laptop and much more to take with us to Australia. However as luck would have it the box is late and we need it ASAP. Since Alecs' parents also sent a box of goodies to Tita Menchie, both our boxes are in her name and we need her to pick them up from the central office. Therefore the morning is spent driving here and there, finding the box in a warehouse full of boxes and then catching a bus back to Lucena with

these impossibly heavy items. Once in the community we pick up some BBQ skewers from a vendor on the corner for dinner and load a Jeepney with our two boxes to the house. Once inside we all collapse after a long and tiring day at the kitchen table. We pile our plates with rice and take a few skewers of absolutely delicious (and I really do mean delicious) meat. "Try one of the pig intestines," Alecs says, happily taking a bite of his. "Pig intestines," I say, "you want me to put that in my mouth?" Alecs and B.A. laugh at me hungrily eating theirs without any qualms. Realizing that I need to be more adventurous in my food choices I decide to shut off my mind and just take a bite of the skewer of intestines. Luckily for me they actually don't taste too bad and the texture is similar to that of chicken. "See, I told you so," is all Alecs can say as he takes a second helping of rice. Feeling slightly more like a local and proud of being somewhat adventurous with my food choice I decide to pack it for the night attempting to rid myself of this cold.

Tomorrow we will relax and spend time here enjoying ourselves with no agenda, something we haven't done in a long time. 

Until next time so long,

Alecs and Meg in Lucena

Ps. There are no videos for this post but we did add a video of our golden banana hotel room in Cambodia to the March 28th post "WE'LL BE BACK I PROMISE". So if you're interested in seeing a great little hotel room check it out on the right-hand side under 'Old Stuff."

"IT'S LIKE WATCHING WHACK-A-MOLE AT THE STAMPEDE"

LUCENA CITY, PHILIPPINES

Temperature: 35 Degrees Celsius

Track of the day: "Come on get happy," Partridge Family

"I'm so excited to see Tita Mechie," Alecs says as we pass through the town of Pagbilao, some fifteen minutes from Lucena City, Alecs' home town, "I've really missed this place." Although our arrival here was supposed to be a secret, Tita Menchie (Alecs' aunt who helped raise him and his brother) had her suspicions and the cat is already out of the bag. It's Holy Week here in the Philippines and that means everyone and their dog is off work for a week to celebrate Easter. Upon boarding the bus Alecs and I were split up, me sitting in the front and Alecs standing midway down the aisle. "Mam try this," the driver says handing me some cookies he just purchased from a vendor, "you'll like it." Being the only non-Filipino person for miles around I am something of an attraction here and the driver gives me special attention for the duration of the trip. Alecs motions to me that it's almost time for us to get off and we prepare to brace for the midday heat. After checking into a hotel we quickly shower before catching a tricycle to Executive Village. As we round the corner I can actually hear Alecs' heart racing in his chest and the moment the tricycle comes to a stop he leaps from his seat heading straight for the gates of his childhood home. Tita Judy, the second eldest of Alecs' mothers family of eight is sitting on a stool just inside the gate and is the first to greet us. Hearing this, Tita Menchie comes running out from inside the house. "Alecs," she yells as she narrowly trips over two kids and a case of empty coca-cola bottles and finally barreling into his arms. The two of them stand at the entrance to the house hugging and laughing and a sudden wave of familiarity rushes through me and I can't help but smile. Tita Menchie kisses me and I mano (touch my forehead to the back of her hand for respect) Tita Judy before being beckoned into the kitchen to eat. Inside the kitchen we find one of Alecs' cousins - Ate Anna - along with her husband and four children, one of which is Alecs' godson (Joel). The family members all join together chatting away in Tagalog nearly a mile a minute and I cling to each work trying desperately to follow the conversation. I soon loose my concentration when Tita Menchie's 3-year old daughter Kristine and her cousin Bea round the corner carrying the tiniest and cutest puppy I've seen in a long time. I wait for several minutes, doing my best not to snatch the puppy from the children's hands and just as I am about to loose hope the kids set four-week old Jupiter down right beside me. Without missing a beat I lift the little ball of fur up and nearly smother him as I carry him all around the house not wanting to let go. Noticing how much I am enjoying the tiny puppy Ate Anna sends her eldest son out to the side of the house and he returns moments later with a three month old black Labrador. Alecs looks over at me knowing the dilemma I am now facing, which dog should I hold - Jupiter or this little guy. Unable to choose between dogs I decide to pick them both up and happily play with them until the family leaves a couple hours later. B.A, one of Alecs' many younger cousins here is on his way to the house and we wait outside on the street for him to arrive. I sit in a white chair outside playing with four week old Jupiter while Alecs goes in and out of Tita Menchie's attached sari-sari (convenience store), returning with chips, pops and candies each time. Just as Alecs opens his fourth bag of Cheese Rings (cheezies) a young man walks past up suspiciously quickly, with his head down. "Is that B.A.," I whisper to Alecs who shakes his head. "No, that's not B.A," he says returning to his bag of Sprite. As I am always right, something Alecs is still learning the man turns his head, a dopey grin on his face and walks towards us. "It is B.A. you moron," I say jumping up to greet him, puppy still in hand. The three of us sit under the dark night sky as children, dogs and the occasional motorbike pass

by as we wait for Tita Menchie to return from the store. Moments later she returns with bags upon bags of groceries and beckons us in for yet another dinner. We all chat well into the night and when it comes time for us to head back to the hotel we sadly bid farewell already looking forward to returning in the morning.

"It's good Friday," I say to Alecs the next morning, "and I think it's going to be a really good Friday after all." We pack our backpacks, check-out and join Kuya Bong (another cousin) who drives us back to the house in Ate Anna's new car. Kuya Sherwin (who was more or less Alecs' brother growing up), his wife, son and brand new baby daughter Phoebe sit inside where yet another meal followed shortly by merienda (a not-so light snack) await us. Around dinner time Tita Menchie brings out Pluto, her six-month old puppy that has been hiding in the corner of his dog-run since we arrived. After feeding him

nearly an entire bag of chips I break Pluto out of his shell and now he's running around the street after me. Kristine, Tita Menchie's beautiful daughter is terrified of Pluto who usually barks viciously behind the fence, but after watching me play with him for hours she too has learned to love him. As the sun dips low in the sky the whole family sits outside where I set up a hammock for little Jupiter using my Cambodian Krama, Pluto snoozes peacefully beside me and Kristine and her many cousins run around the street while Alecs and his cousins laugh the night away. Kuya Sherwin decides to hit the sack and I follow suit, taking a quick and blissfully cold shower before crashing the moment my head hits the pillow.

"It's too early," Alecs whines the next morning as the house comes alive with the chatter of people. "It's your fault for not coming to bed until 2AM," I say packing our snorkeling gear, sunscreen and towels for the beach trip. After breakfast we all pile into two cars for the one

hour trip to Sariaya (another town) beach at one of the many resorts dotting the coast. The family rents out one of the many thatched roof huts where we set down our clothes, towels and of course food. However it soon becomes quite evident that we are in need of yet another hut to house all the tasty treats we brought with us. So after a few minutes we commandeer another hut across from ours and start moving over all the food. Among the multitude of food includes spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, pork stew, fried chicken, sinigang (sour soup), pancit hab-hab (noodles, beef and sauce), lechon kawali (roasted pig), whole fish, hot dogs and of course a plethora of rice. All this to feed 14 people - but i'm sure we could feed an army or five. Kuya Sherwin and B.A. leave a few mintes after arriving and return with several bags of chips as this was clearly not enough food for us all. "Alecs look look," I say pointing to the hut next to ours, "those people have more food than us and fewer people." Alecs laughs at me as he simultaneously takes a bite of his barbecued hot dog and a spoonful of rice. "That's how Filipino's are hun," he says. The young kids head to the pool while me, Alecs and his cousins make our way to the more than enticing beach. Diving into the ocean, we taste the salt-water on our lips and the boys commence being boys. "It's like watching whack-a-mole at the Stampede" I say under my breath as they dunk each other under the water one by one, trying unsuccessfully drag one another underneath. I stand there shaking my head at their silliness when a pair of hands grab my ankles and I too am pulled into this charade. "Oh you're going to pay for that Alecs," I say when we resurface already chasing after him through the water. The day continues on much like this, swimming, eating, some karaoke by Kuya Bong and Kuya Sherwin, eating, swimming eating and eating again. A few hours later the water level has dropped dramatically and we cannot find anything deeper than our knees. Everyone, including the kids heads to the beach and that's where the fun begins. Donning Alecs' snorkeling gear, Kuya Sherwin attempts the most unique looking flip that any of us has ever seen and he everyone keeling over laughing. A warm feeling envelopes me, a feeling that can only come from being with family, and for the first time in a long time I feel at home. Like all good things though, this too ended but we weren't sad to head back to the house as everyone would still be there. Alecs and I haven't felt this at home and content since we left Canada and even thinking about our inevitable departure makes me feel an overwhelming sense of sadness, so for now I think it's better to live for today.

Tomorrow we will visit more family in a town close by called Unisan.

Until next time so long,

Alecs and Meg in Lucena City

Ps. Videos of Tito Noels house as well as Kuya Sherwin's attempts at underwater flips will be posted in the next 24 hours, so check back soon!

"THIS IS THE LIFE"

SILANG, PHILIPPINES

Temperature: 28 Degrees Celsius

Track of the day: "Big House," Audio Adrenaline

"Do you feel that?" I ask Alecs, as the sounds of twittering birds fill the morning air. "The cool

breeze?" he replies opening the large wooden doors to our private balcony, "it's so nice that we don't even need a fan." Alecs stands at the edge of the balcony breathing in the fresh crisp air overlooking a peaceful farm with looming mountains in the distance. We wander about our wing of the house, flipping through the many paintings done by Tito Noel, showering and finally heading downstairs. Following the sounds of voices, we find Tito Hans sitting under the large covered patio watching Tito Noel and the gardener tending to the many flowers, trees and plants in the lush sprawling garden. "Good Morning Tito," Alecs says taking the seat across from him, "wow the garden is so much more beautiful in the morning," he adds. Alecs is indeed right, the garden shines like a nickle in a jar of pennies, with the large infinity pool and it's cascading waterfall highlighting the plethora of colourful flora and fauna. That cool breeze

blows through a wind chime near the bahay kubo (quaint nipa hut) and we walk up the path to find Tito Noel near the large trellis in the corner of the garden. The meticulously manicured gardens are what the dreams of horticulturalist everywhere are made of. Each plants is strategically placed for both aesthetic appeal, their pleasant floral scents and even the ability to ward off mosquitoes to which we find none. Back near the pool is a lovely little cabana tucked behind some leafy green trees and some lovely climbing vines. "Breakfast is ready," Tito Hans shouts from the patio and Tito Noel, Alecs and I make our way to the dinning room. Sitting at the long thick dark wooden table I can't help but feel like royalty and looking over at Alecs who is sitting quite straight backed I can see he feels the same way. One of the two live-in maids/cooks places our meal on the table - a delicious looking array of longonisa, garlic rice and fried eggs. When we have all finished our meal it is promptly cleared from the table and Tito Noel agrees to give us

a full tour of the house now that it is daylight. Starting from the massive front doors we turn right to the first wing where we enter Tito Noels sprawling beautifully decorated room, with it's many well-positioned accents, paintings and unique pieces of furniture. We pass through the enormous en suite which I am convinced is larger than my entire old room exiting on the other side in Tito

Hans' room. This room has a much more rustic nautical charm with many pictures adorning the walls, including a particularly interesting one of their old yacht in New York. 17-year old Nikko (their shitsu) snoozes peacefully in his bed in the corner near another patio overlooking the garden. Beside the patio doors is another window where we can see the beautiful view of the pool and the mountains. From here we are taken to the library where hundreds of books adorn the shelves creating a masterpiece of literature enticing any reader to curl up here with a good book. As we exit this wing of the house we enter the main foyer with its impossibly high ceilings and grandiose stature. Here the comfortably decorated sitting room with grand piano is the centre and focal point to the whole house with giant sliding glass doors on every side creating the illusion that the house continues on forever. A massive kitchen overlooking the pool is rarely used as below

the maids quarters has its own kitchen where food is generally prepared. Back in the guest wing of the house we make our way to the room, passing another large guestroom and find our beds already made-up. "Wow, talk about service," I say to Alecs as I head

to the bathroom to brush my teeth. We spend the remainder of the day catching up and exploring the many nooks and crannies of the house, garden and surrounding gated community.

"I could get used to this weather," I say to Alecs the next morning, feeling the cool breeze pass through from one window to the next. A farmer leads his cow out to pasture in the

distance and we prepare for another day at the resort....I mean the new house. After breakfast we all pile in the Toyota Fortuner SUV with leather seats and are taken to another development where these two own yet another piece of property. The full-time live-in driver Jay starts up the engine, winding through the quiet development out into the real world. A twenty minute drive away has us in another gated community where Tito Noel tries to remember which lot is his. When he is finally convinced this is the lot we step out to examine the beauty of it's location, at the foot of a mountain overlooking the sprawling countryside with a pristine golf course in near sight. "I think we will have lunch at the golf course," Tito Noel says, stepping back into the vehicle and with that we are off. Before too long we are back at the house where we all join together in the pool for a refreshing swim as the sun reaches the highest point in the sky. 'This is the life," I say to Alecs floating on the crystal blue surface dwarfed by the mountains afar, "the epitome of retirement." Just as we are leaving the pool Tito Jorge, the eldest of the Reyes siblings comes for a nice visit. We all join on the patio chatting about family, our travels and much much more. Unfortunately the visit does not last too long and Tito Jorge is off until next time. Over dinner we are informed by both

Tito Hans and Tito Noel that they are both abused by each other - Tito Noel for his constant purchasing and Tito Hans for not understanding why it is necessary. "You two seem quite suppressed," I say laughing, "especially here where you

could just head to another wing of the house to escape each other." Tito Hans smiles as does Tito Noel and we continue chatting and flipping through old family photos before packing it in for another night.

"Okay I will leave you at the travel agency while I go run some errands," Tito Noel says the next morning as he and the driver drop us off at Vietname Travel in Manila. Within the hour we have our money fully refunded and a new set of plane tickets to Bangkok. Philippine Airlines quoted us at $350 per person to Bangkok while Cebu Pacific charged $290 together with 15kg of excess luggage. Needless to say we purchase the cheap one and meet back up with Tito, heading to Philippine immigration to straighten out our passports. We arrive back at the house around 6PM in time for dinner with valid extended visas in hand. I stop in our room where we find our clothes freshly laundered, smelling of flowers and even pressed. "Did they buy me a new shirt?" I say to Alecs, examining a white blouse I had laundered, "I think it's more white than when I bought it." Before we have time to realize it's nearly midnight and we pack it in for the last day here at CasaNoah.

"I think I will take a nap," Tito Noel says around noon the next day, "that's what life is like here, relaxing and doing what you want." I look at Alecs, nodding approvingly and we both

decide a nap sounds more than ideal. By the time we wake up feeling refreshed we are all heading out for dinner in Tagaytay so Tito Noel can make up for forgetting Tito Hans' 70th birthday yesterday. "You see what I mean," Tito Hans says, "I am a battered husband, he doesn't even remember my birthday after all these decades together." We settle in for a delicious Italian meal overlooking Taal Volcano, an active volcano that last spilled Lava in 1969. We all laugh and joke with each other well into the night enjoying the refreshing atmosphere, delicious food and delightful company.

Tomorrow we are off to Lucena City, Alecs' hometown some 3.5 hrs away by bus.

We are sad to leave this paradise of resorts but excited for new adventures and reunions with more family.

Until next time so long,

Alecs and Meg in Silang

Ps. Check back in 24 hours to see the videos of the house which we were unable to upload today.

"I'M BEING EATEN ALIVE"

CAVITE, PHILIPPINES

Temperature: 30 Degrees Celsius

Track of the day: 'Sampip,' Parokya Ni Edgar

"I'm so tired of leaving places we like," I say to Alecs over a Filipino breakfast of longsilog at our hotel. "I know what you mean," Alecs says, "but we have liked almost everywhere we've been," he adds, "and it doesn't get easier." It's our last day here in paradise under the alias of El Nido. Kuya June, our bangka driver will be arriving momentarily as we are planning to re-visit some of our favorite spots for a different perspective and of course some new places as well. "It's been one heck of an adventure," Alecs says sipping his 3 in 1 instant Nescafe coffee as the birds chirp in the distance, "but it's coming to an end." In the midst of our reminiscing Kuya June walk up the shore to greet us, loading our snorkel gear on the boat.  "Can we visit the small lagoon again?" I ask, wanting to further explore and better photograph this popular destination on the island hopping trail. Nodding his head, Kuya June starts up the engine for the short trip to the popular destination on the El Nido island hopping trail. Donning our fins, snorkels and masks we swim to the lagoon entrance as I wildly shoot photo's, not wanting an inch of this place to be undocumented for our memories. Dodging a white jellyfish, Alecs and I swim to the centre of the lagoon where we can no longer 

see the ground. Treading water, we point out the many spectacular photo op's to each other before swimming to the edge where there is a small cave opening. Remembering what our guide told us on the first day, Alecs takes a peso from his shorts and for good luck drops it in the depths below. With our heads under water, we watch the silver coin flicker down further and further until we can no longer see it at all. We spend quite some time basking in the water and sun, hoping this day will never end, but we know we must move on. Heading to our next stop, a place we have also seen already - big Lagoon, I take the opportunity to liberally apply some sunscreen before once again facing the heat.  Big Lagoon is simply a photographers dream and all I can do is snap photo after photo. However this time around, Kuya June takes us to an area in Big Lagoon that our previous guide did not, a place where we can swim in crystal sparkling waters with visibility like we have never seen

before. Underwater, dozens of fish species perform their concerts, twirling and dancing about the brightly coloured coral. Several spikey black creatures like ocean porcupines cover the floor, their shiny eyes twinkling when the light hits them. "What are those things?" Alecs asks Kuya June. "Sea  Urchins," he tells us, "and don't step on them because those spikes pack in a lot of pain." Happy to know such useful information, we continue snorkeling about, keeping our feet firmly away from the ocean floor. The air is still, the water warm, no tourists are anywhere to be seen and both Alecs and I are having the time of our lives. Of course, like all good things, this too must end, and we board the boat once again heading to another island for our last lunch here. We spend our lunch aboard the boat chatting away with Kuya June, who invites us to his house for dinner

tonight. I look over at Alecs who is clearly thinking what I'm thinking - we always get so lucky with the people we meet. As we head

 to our next stop, Alecs and I are buzzing about having dinner with another local on our travels. Joenel tosses the anchor in the open water next to a large limestone karst and Kuya June, Alecs and I all jump in. I let go of the boat suddenly realizing how strong the waves are here in uncovered waters and I fight hard to keep myself from moving backwards. The undercurrent is so strong that the muscles in my arms begin aching after only minutes in the water. Alecs and I follow Kuya June upstream, fighting the sea all the way checking up on each other every few minutes. Alecs stops for a moment to defog his goggles and when I look up to find him he in no longer in sight. Panicking, I quickly begin swimming around looking for where he has 

gone, worried the current has pulled him under, but soon enough I find him treading water far far in the distance. I swim back to Alecs, asking him what happened. "I stopped to take some photos and when I finally surfaced the current dragged me all the way back here in a matter of seconds," he says trying to keep his head above the waves. We explore the underwater world, battling the waves and getting a fantastic workout all the while. "I think my muscles will be sore tomorrow," Alecs says pulling himself up the ladder into the boat, "I like it."We both agree that was one of the most challenging and more fun parts of today's tour and it was perfect for our last day. We stop at Seven Commandoes Beach, the last stop on this incredible island hopping vacation. A pristine stretch of white sand lines the amazing teal blue sea and we set off for one last snorkeling trip. About 10 meters from shore my legs begin itching and then I feel tiny pinches of pain all over my body. I tap Alecs on the shoulder and surface to ask him if he feels the same thing. "Ya it's little tiny jellyfis

h," Alecs says, as if I should know this, "just focus right in front of you and you'll see them." Putting my head underwater I focus very hard to see the little creatures and sure enough there

they are in the hundreds. I try to bravely push on and follow Alecs who seems to be unfazed by the bites but after about ten minutes I can no longer take it. "I'm being eaten alive," I say to Alecs, scratching my neck, "I'm going to go sit on the beach." Alecs nods and we part ways and as I swim back I decide it's high time I built something in the sand. Finding a nice piece of beach where I can see Alecs snorkeling about the coral reefs I begin building my creature. After three quarters of an hour Alecs makes his way back to shore to find my masterpiece in all it's glory - a hammerhead shark made of sand. "Hey that's awesome," Alecs says taking some photos. "Woe, what happened to you?" I ask Alecs pointing to his back which is covered in hundreds of tiny little bite marks. "The jellyfish," he says casually, "is it really bad." Lying, I tell him it's hardly noticeable when in fact his entire back has little red pin marks creating a connect-the-dots of jellyfish bites. "Time to head back," Kuya June says starting up the engine one last time, "dinner will be ready at 7PM." We arrive at the beach in a matter of moments and we quickly walk to our hotel to shower and prepare for dinner. As we walk down the small streets of El Nido, the smell of drying fish fills the air and walk in silence feeling the warm air surrounding us and the cool sea breeze blowing

across our faces. We arrive at Kuya June's little home near the pier and he and his wife welcome us in for a delicious meal of fried chicken, veggies and of course - rice. "I love making friends with locals," I say to Alecs when we arrive back at our hotel, "it just makes the experience so much more authentic." Kuya June was a fantastic guide and friend, and like our tuk-tuk driver in Cambodia, he is someone we will never forget. 

Morning comes all too soon to the early-to-rise community of El Nido and we have to catch a 7AM bus back to Puerto Princesa, the capital. Kuya June picks us up from our hotel, walks us to the bus stop, convinces the driver to give us the best seats up front and bids us farewell. The bus is a crowded metal box with makeshift seats, no windows and definitely no air conditioning. We both pull out our Cambodian Kramas making good use of them as we plow through dirt roads, dust flying into the bus. We make it to our first pit-stop with the bus breaking down only three times and Alecs climbs out of the bus to get some ice cream. As I sit on the torn raggedy seat I am reminded of a bus

we took in Cambodia. During that bus ride we stopped six hours into the trip and found some delicious homemade ice-cream in a waffle cone and excitedly headed back to the bus to enjoy it. 

Standing at the door to the bus was a thin little boy asking passengers for food and without hesitating Alecs handed him his chocolate ice cream casually boarding the bus. As our bus pulled out of the terminal i got a quick glance of a happy little boy, his face covered in chocolate - reminding me why I love Alecs so much. Today, however there is no little boy asking for his ice-cream and Alecs enjoys Ube, a purple ice-cream on a very hot day. "You're hair is white," I say laughing, "the dust actually makes it look like you have died the tips of your hair." After nine hours we finally arrive in Puerto Princesa making our way to Kawayana Resort, an inexpensive little place with more charm than we could ever want. Momentarily after arriving we shower and crash on the bed, falling asleep without having eaten anything but ice-cream. The next day is spent lazing

around the resort, sitting in the small nipa huts by the pool catching up on our e-mails, banking and phone-calls. "I'm excited to see my family," Alecs

says as we dig into a gigantic meal of squid, rice, sinigang and french fries, "but it's sad that this part of the trip has already ended." We recount all the amazing things we've seen and done and think of the many other places we want to visit. "Goodnight," I say to Alecs, rolling over in my bed, "pleasant dream."

As usual the sun rises all too soon and we are already on the plane bound for Manila where Alecs' cousin Ate Anna, her son Joel and his other cousin Kuya Bong will pick us up. "Ate," Alecs says opening his arms to embrace her outside the airport, "musta na (how are you?)" We all stop to admire her fancy new car before Kuya Bong drives us to a very fancy mall in Makati (part of Manila) where we wait around for Tito Noel. We stop at Jollibee (Filipino McDonalds)

for lunch and as we wait for our order I notice a scale next to the fries. "Alecs look look," I say pointing to the scale, "they weigh the fries." One of the clerks weighs my order of fries and removes two of them before handing them over. "Talk about cost cutting," Alecs says as we all laugh about their cheapness, "at least it's delicious." Tito Noel and Tito Hans arrive around 5PM and we jump into his air-conditioned SUV catching up on lost time. We stop at a party before heading to the new house in Cavite, which has been all the buzz for the last year. Unfortunately it's dark and we cannot see all the details of the house until morning, but we both look at each other in awe of the sheer size and grandeur of the amazing house. We are given our own room in a separate wing of the house and feeling like pampered kings we drift lazily off to sleep.

Until next time,

Alecs and Meg in Cavite, Philippines