On Our Way to PNG - (Almost) One day in Manila

When the airline attendant changed the time indicating a delay of over one hour, Mara and I knew we were on a tight schedule (Mara's expression, to make it sound nice!). Basically, we had less then an hour between United Express flight from PDX connecting in Los Angeles to Philipine Airlines. And indeed, the flight was even later than announced...Our flight to Manila was leaving at 10:05 p.m. and we were stuck in LA traffic, in a shuttle moving slow motion toward the international terminal. 9:50 p.m. we arrived at the Philipines Airlines counter, where the manager took us through straight to security. Mara and I thanked God: our Lord was holding the next flight - we knew.

14 hour later, we arrived in Manila, but our luggage did not. Officials, though very kind and helpful, regret that the four baggages will be sent to Port Moresby on Monday - the earliest. By then, Mara and I will already have arrived in Ukarumpa. We trust our Lord; He has carried us through so far. Even if, at this moment, we have clothes to last us for the next three-four days.

In Manila, our adventure continues. Initially, we had not planed to leave the airport, but as you can see - it is very crowded.

Manila International Terminal Departure Entrance

So, we decided to take the local's way to the nearest quarter: Baclaran. First we are riding the bus, then the Jeepney.

waiting for the bus outside the airport

the bus driver was hasting the Jeepney in front of us

Manila traffic at 8 am

Jeepneys - from a WWII model and make

trying to decide which dish looks more delicious

Mara counted 16 of us in this Jeepney :) - the air was already very hot

Finally, giving in to hunger, we ate - Mara decided to have a pork "bbq" skewer with the traditional rice; I could not resist and, as always when travelling, had the locals' favorite.

In case you were wondering "is that fish head" - you were right!; the dish on the left is a stew made with intestine, lungs, kidneys, spline and tripe - yum!

And now, "Mabuhay!" (local greeting), from NAIA, the international terminal in Manila, with the only luggage left with us. We are looking forward to share more in the next few days.

As always, with love from us to all of you. The Lord bless you!