Some more pics, with a brief commentary, from my recent trip.

[grahamw48]

I've been trying to organise my pics into some sort of order, as we had a bit of a wander back and forth during my 3 weeks there.

My girlfriend had to stay at, (or at least visit for few hours each day) the hospital near Ermita (Manila) for a few days after my arrival, as her sister was undergoing an operation. This shaped our plans during the first week or so.

After getting off the plane I took a taxi to the Sogo Drive Inn hotel in Pasay. It's handy for the airport, and where my lady lives, reasonably priced, and always has a room available day or night to get your head down and catch up on your sleep after the long flight. Very clean, peaceful and efficient too...despite its large size. Around p1400 a night, but no room wi-fi.

I did find the bellboys'/porters transport rather amusing: :biggrin:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils003_zpsef50dd75.jpg~original

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After meeting up with the love of my life (Mercedes), I was invited to the house of her employer (but more like a grandmother to Mercedes), which is situated in one of the wealthiest parts of Manila, with some fabulous properties and facilities. Mercedes is the lady's live-in carer, along with another sister of Mercedes. I received a warm welcome, and later 'Merly' and I strolled down to the local Rugby/Sports club to sample some of the rich folks' facilities...courtesy of a guest pass from a neighbour. :smile:

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To be continued...

[grahamw48]

Some sort of fruit in Merly's garden...:Erm:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils022_zpsa5d0c8fe.jpg~original

[stevewool]

very nice Graham, and very nice houses too

[cheekee]

Those fruits look interesting.

Are they edible and did you try them ?

[Doc Alan]

Thanks for posting Graham, look forward to the next instalment :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Moy]

Some sort of fruit in Merly's garden...:Erm:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils022_zpsa5d0c8fe.jpg~original

they were my childhood fav fruit:hubbahubba: its Macopa..:biggrin: sort of version of berries but more succulent in taste..best eaten with salt:omg: not much just to sprinkle to enhance the sweetness...:biggrin::biggrin:how i miss my life...eating those:cwm3::bigcry:

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oG-viNg3E0/T2xsPz19feI/AAAAAAAABIA/my2q-4MW1Vo/s1600/IMG_7154.JPG

[grahamw48]

Those fruits look interesting.

Are they edible and did you try them ?

Yes, they're edible. I've forgotten the name of them, but I'm sure one of our Filipino members can enlighten us. :smile:

Just organising some more pics...watch this space.

Oops....thanks Moy !

[highlander01]

Nice pics Graham...

[cheekee]

Macopa ?

I must try next time I visit.

They look lovely.

[grahamw48]

Some more from the sports club...me getting a wash. :cwm25:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/1553256_622258044488079_215078597_o_zpsb236ae01.jpg~original

Padded bed at Sogo Hotel...for those livelier moments. :do_it:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/1618244_628222723891611_96530623_o_zps3f310a49.jpg~original
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My sweetheart in her souvenir T-shirt: :smile:

Merly is an absolute diamond. I'm a lucky guy. :heartshape1:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/MerlyinherYorkT-shirt_zps36eafabd.jpg~original

[stevie c]

Great pics graham

[grahamw48]

Cheers folks...and we haven't even got out of Manila yet. :icon_lol:

Plenty more to come...

[Michael Parnham]

Thank you so much Graham, very enjoyable!:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Terpe]

I always enjoy other people's photo's ......thanks for sharing Graham...:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Terpe]

.....best eaten with salt:omg:.....

Doesn't that apply to all fruits in Philippines Moy...:xxparty-smiley-004:

[Moy]

I always enjoy other people's photo's ......thanks for sharing Graham...:xxgrinning--00xx3:
:wink::biggrin::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Thanks folks...and to continue: :smile:

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After a brief stay at the Sogo, I decided it would be more convenient to move to a hotel nearer the hospital where Merly would be staying with/visiting her sister, which was in the Ermita/Malate area. Had a quick wander around and found myself a very nice room in a lovely old hotel in Malate called the Adriatico Arms Hotel. Lovely clean place, comfy bed, friendly staff, and (what had become a priority)...good wi-fi in the room. All for p1600 a night.

Merly seemed to have a thing about taking pictures of beds during our holiday, so here it is. :biggrin:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/IMG_20140119_143122_zps6e176d13.jpg~original

Here's the very nice restaurant...though we actually ate at the local canteen around the corner. :smile:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/IMG_20140120_075428_zpsae60c1a9.jpg~original

I had arranged for one of my nieces to visit with us (and her boyfriend), and later we all trouped off to Robinsons, just down the road , for a bit of window-shopping and a Pizza.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/MeandJoana_zpsaf258204.jpg~original.

Meanwhile, (as an ex-male model ) Graham was asked to pose...in his personally hand-cut and stitched designer shorts. :biggrin:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/modelgraham_zps213228ab.jpg~original

[Dedworth]

How about those pics of the subdivision open air pool Graham :biggrin:

[grahamw48]

During our visit to Robinson's Mall, Graham was also able to demonstrate one of his (few) skills to our accompanying teenagers....playing car racing games, as well as dazzling the passing crowds. :smile:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/graracinggame_zpsb56a27e0.jpg~original

[grahamw48]

Next: Off to the seaside ! :Jump:

Merly's sister has had her operation and all is well. She also has her employer's blessing to take a holiday with a certain Yorkshire reprobate. :cwm25:
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http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/640x480q90/543/asbf.jpg

As I was familiar with the place, had friends there and we'd been before....off we shot to Subic Bay, on the Victory Liner bus...with great wi-fi on board ! :smile:

[Arthur Little]

After getting off the plane I took a taxi to the Sogo Drive Inn hotel in Pasay. It's handy for the airport, and where my lady lives, reasonably priced, and always has a room available day or night to get your head down and catch up on your sleep after the long flight. Very clean, peaceful and efficient too...despite its large size. Around p1400 a night, but no room wi-fi.

:cwm24: ... but you already had a "wifey" in your room, I thought :Erm: ...



As I was familiar with the place, had friends there and we'd been before....off we shot to Subic Bay, on the Victory Liner bus... with great wi-fi on board ! :smile:

Top of the range :biggrin: ... Mercedes, :hubbahubba: no less! :icon_lol:

[raynaputi]

Great photos and stories Graham! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Behave yourself Arthur. :icon_lol:

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Here's 'wifey' at the seaside...more to follow. :smile:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/MinfrontofKokomos-smallsize_zps09c6ccb2.jpg~original

[Arthur Little]

I've been trying to organise my pics into some sort of order, as we had a bit of a wander back and forth during my 3 weeks there.

My girlfriend had to stay at, (or at least visit for few hours each day) the hospital near Ermita (Manila) for a few days after my arrival, as her sister was undergoing an operation. This shaped our plans during the first week or so.

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils003_zpsef50dd75.jpg~original

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils010_zps977a1e4d.jpg~original
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Some more from the sports club...me getting a wash. :cwm25:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/741239_622258084488075_1877754669_o_zpscebe0f02.jpg~original
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/1553256_622258044488079_215078597_o_zpsb236ae01.jpg~original

Padded bed at Sogo Hotel...for those livelier moments. :do_it:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/1618244_628222723891611_96530623_o_zps3f310a49.jpg~original
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My sweetheart in her souvenir T-shirt: :smile:

Merly is an absolute diamond. I'm a lucky guy. :heartshape1:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/MerlyinherYorkT-shirt_zps36eafabd.jpg~original

Joking aside ... :yeahthat:'s a GREAT collection of photos, Graham ...

[Arthur Little]

Behave yourself Arthur. :icon_lol:

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Here's 'wifey' at the seaside...more to follow. :smile:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/MinfrontofKokomos-smallsize_zps09c6ccb2.jpg~original

... and that one, ^ too ... she's so relaxed looking in it. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Terpe]

Nice story Graham......still enoying those great pics too :Jump:

Makes me feel like jumping on plane and getting back

[grahamw48]

Thanks Peter :xxgrinning--00xx3:....meanwhile:

The bus trip to Subic from Manila took about four and a half hours, including one or two brief stops, where bowels could be relieved and nicotene levels topped up.

The whole (3 week) trip, we enjoyed pleasantly mild and sunny weather...for the tropics.

Upon arival in Olongapo, we'd normally have taken the rather exciting 3-4 mile up hill and down dale winding road trike ride, but a rather pleasant man with a brand new people-carrier taxi offered to take us there for a mere 200 pesos...only 50 more than the trikes. We clamboured in and enjoyed our luxury ride to my first choice of hotel, down on Baloy beach road. This however could only offer rooms at a price slightly above my strict budget, so we had a wander further along and settled upon T-Ric's, a rather smart place with a lovely restaurant looking out on to the beach. p1600 a night. I don't think Merly took a pic of the bed in this one. :Erm:

View from the restaurant:
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An unusual event this...Graham actually buying a meal in a hotel, rather than sneaking off to the nearest local canteen for the cheap stuff. (must have been something on the menu for less than 100 pesos). :biggrin:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils034_zps5953b5c0.jpg~original

[grahamw48]

...from another angle, while drifting helplessly out to sea. :smile:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/BaloyBeach2_zps15e26f50.jpg~original

[stevewool]

great pictures and the story too, you are a amazing fellow Graham , :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Meanwhile...night had fallen, and we took ourselves off up to a bar in the local 'entertainment ' strip, where I decided (after consuming a number of Tanduays and San Miguels) to entertain the motley crew of staff and customers...mainly consisting of transvestites and prostitutes, with a particularly soporific version of 'Feelings'. :cwm3:

Please don't feel obliged to hear it all the way through. :biggrin:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/th_Feelings_zps8bac849d.jpg (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/Feelings_zps8bac849d.mp4)

[Rosie1958]

Fabulous photos and write up, Graham! Thanks for taking the time to share with us :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Meanwhile...night had fallen, and we took ourselves off up to a bar in the local 'entertainment ' strip, where I decided (after consuming a number of Tanduays and San Miguels) to entertain the motley crew of staff and customers...mainly consisting of transvestites and prostitutes, with a particularly soporific version of 'Feelings'. :cwm3:

Please don't feel obliged to hear it all the way through. :biggrin:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/th_Feelings_zps8bac849d.jpg (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/Feelings_zps8bac849d.mp4)

sorry Graham i would rather see pictures of the beds :icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin:

[grahamw48]

:cwm25:

So, my earlier rendition of Satisfaction may also fail to impress Steve ? :biggrin:

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Oh, and of course the 'Wild Thing !' virtuoso performance...:laugher:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/th_satisfaction2_zpsa59373b5.jpg (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/satisfaction2_zpsa59373b5.mp4)[

[stevewool]

wow , to early for me , back to no sound :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[tiger31]

Those fruits look interesting.

Are they edible and did you try them ?

yes they are edible we had one of those trees in my last place and the kids scramble up the trees all the time to grab some fruit ,never tasted them but they look like the colour of a spud inside with similar texture

[grahamw48]

Forgot to add...while we were in Ermita, we also took the opportunity to pop into 'Calle 5', a live music venue where they always have a lineup of talented Filipino bands. We weren't disappointed.
One of the bands had a particularly brilliant blues guitarist who played some excellent renditions by one of my favourite's...Gary Moore. Superb !

Calle 5 is on Mabini St, near the United Nations end, and I can thoroughly recommend the place. (Been going there for 23 years now).

So, back to Subic:

We changed hotels, finding another one next to the beach, which not only was cheaper, but also had a nice peaceful well-equipped room, with excellent wi-fi and friendly staff. (Kokomos).

We also found a lovely place to eat, just a couple of hundred yards away - 'Lucky Mike's', which served delicious food at bargain prices. It almost became a home from home for us. The proprietor (an American-Filipino) and his family being very welcoming. Here's a picture of him and his establishment: :smile:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils040_zps73e27c8f.jpg~original

[fred]

Great pictures once again Graham. Looks like you had a ball!
I can actually remember Calle5 opening day.. We used to go there quite often.

[grahamw48]

Some more to come Fred. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Off to bed now...pissed on the Tanduay I brought back. :Cuckoo: :biggrin:

[stevie c]

Been to calle 5 in numerous occassions graham more so when i was with my first filipino wife always have a fantastic live music there

[Michael Parnham]

Feel as though I've been on holiday with you Graham, Very good! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[sars_notd_virus]

Woow Nice pictures Graham :xxgrinning--00xx3:
...please throw us some ''macopa'' when u get back :hubbahubba:

[imagine]

Great photos Graham :xxgrinning--00xx3: planning your next trip yet? Bet you didn't want to leave

[grahamw48]

No, I didn't want to leave (never do !), and yes I'm already planning my next trip...in another 2 or 3 months. :smile:

So anyway....

I had decided it would be really nice if I could take Merly up to Pangasinan to visit her mum, whom she hadn't seen for almost 2 years, as well as giving me the opportunity to meet the family and see something of Merly's home province. :smile:

We took the Victory Liner bus from Olongapo, changing at Dau, and then on up to Dagupan...the nearest large town to Merly's home, also handy for some nice beaches.

All these buses have wi-fi, so it was nice to be able to pass the time surfing the net, inbetween admiring the scenery, on what is quite a long journey (about 6 hours altogether). I always bag the back seat, because there is plenty of legroom, plus you can put all your bags behind you instead of having them stowed in the bus lockers underneath.

Here is a fascinating picture of Graham, sitting in the back seat of a Victory Liner bus: :biggrin:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/meonvictoryliner_zps848cbc78.jpg~original

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I had already decided to stay at the Lenox Hotel in Dagupan, as it looked nice on the Agoda site, so off to it we whizzed in the trike.
Well, it was certainly a posh-looking place, and rather dearer than I normally like, but we booked a room anyway, as we'd been travelling for most of the day.

The room/suite could only be described as 'palatial'. Here's one or two pics...

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Just a couple of problems...no (working) wi-fi in the room...which we'd been led to believe it HAD, and next morning NOISY, because the room was actually what I described later to the manager as a 'pig with lipstick'. Behind the smart curtains was a loose and rusty old window frame, with a gap an inch wide around it. Same with the aircon unit...hence letting in all the crowing rooster and barking dog sound effects. :NoNo:

I was NOT happy...and soon reception were made aware of this...:cwm25:

[Dedworth]

We also found a lovely place to eat, just a couple of hundred yards away - 'Lucky Mike's', which served delicious food at bargain prices. It almost became a home from home for us. The proprietor (an American-Filipino) and his family being very welcoming. Here's a picture of him and his establishment: :smile:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils040_zps73e27c8f.jpg~original

Looks like Mike doesn't shirk when it comes to sampling his food :smile:

[grahamw48]

Compared to some of the beer-guts wandering around Subic, he's almost 'trim'. :icon_lol:

A very pleasant and genuine gentleman though.

[stevewool]

Again great pictures and some good tips too :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

After complaining to reception about the shortcomings of our room, there was a knock on the door and a Filipino lady, who I think said she was customer relations officer or some similar title, invited herself in.

I then proceeded to parry aside her gushing apologies, whilst pointing out the various inadequacies of our supposed 'luxury' accommodation. :ReadIt:

Merly was very impressed with my performance (she told me later), but nevertheless, apparently felt safer hiding under the blankets, while her man did his duty. :xxparty-smiley-004:

The manager lady seemed quite overcome by this torrent of 'customer-feedback', but eventually managed to ask what they could do to save the day.

In for a penny in for a pound... I said " give me 1,000 pesos".

She offered us a better room, this, that and the other, during her subsequent 3 or 4 additional visits to our room (which did nothing for my mood !) . We were also sent complimentary iced teas. :smile:

I had already decided to move hotels, but was quite enjoying the drama.

So, leaving behind the cheery posse of hotel staff, bowing, curtseying and waving us off....we did. :smile:

Next stop...the Value Star Inn...Dagupan.
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-30%2010.20.35_zpsnrxysoak.jpg
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/valuestarinn_zpseea08dc5.jpg~original

[grahamw48]

That gap in my teeth is getting wider. :Erm:

[Dedworth]

Compared to some of the beer-guts wandering around Subic, he's almost 'trim'. :icon_lol:

A very pleasant and genuine gentleman though.

:xxgrinning--00xx3:

I can imagine the sweaty bloaters stalking about :yikes:

[grahamw48]

What a total contrast !

Half the price, nice room with working everything....including wi-fi, and peaceful too.
Lovely staff and great service. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

We even got serenaded (well, we just happened to be there at the time :cwm25:) by the Chinese New Year dance troop. The hotel was Chinese-owned it seems.

Here's a pic of them just before getting into their performance.
Merly made a lovely video of it, but we can't seem to get the file sent to my PC, so I'll try to post it later.

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/phils2014052_zpscc56f78a.jpg~original

[grahamw48]

There was a particularly attractive and TALL young lady on reception duties. We fell into conversation...as one does, with beautiful young ladies, :wink: and it seems that she is 5'7" tall, 24 yrs old and SINGLE.
The photo doesn't do her justice, to be honest, but she IS willing to consider dating a Brit...if there are any lonely (tall?) guys out there. :biggrin:

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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/hotelreceptionist_zpsb6a2c3c5.jpg~original

[grahamw48]

Ah...managed to get the video of our hotel welcoming committee. :biggrin: (Click on it).

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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/th_video-2014-01-29-12-06-25_zps8htirmgt.jpg (http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/video-2014-01-29-12-06-25_zps8htirmgt.mp4)

[Terpe]

That gap in my teeth is getting wider. :Erm:

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSURIxoSbAilSDrv7hNuzlilYaw6w7s2rD3fXkvPQ0OwIxtA647

Signature smile ? :biggrin:

[grahamw48]

Getting that way (one of my favourite character actors too. lol)

Would teeth braces look odd on an old bloke ? :Erm:

[Terpe]

Getting that way (one of my favourite character actors too. lol)

Would teeth braces look odd on an old bloke ? :Erm:

Probably not as 'bad' as trouser braces :icon_lol:

[grahamw48]

.Interesting scenery in the Philippines...on our way to Dagupan, from the bus. The volcano Mt.Arayat (near Angeles City). 3,366ft high doesn't sound that much, but when it just sticks up out of a flat plain, in isolation...pretty impressive ! :smile:
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-28%2014.41.01_zpscau9y5pg.jpg

[Doc Alan]

Snap, Graham :xxgrinning--00xx3: ! An almost identical view from the Baguio – Manila bus :smile:.


http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/jj517/DocAlan/P1040889_zps22a6339b.jpg (http://s1265.photobucket.com/user/DocAlan/media/P1040889_zps22a6339b.jpg.html)

[grahamw48]

Same route Alan. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

You used the zoom though. :icon_lol:

[grahamw48]

The main reason that we went up to Dagupan was to meet up with Merly's family, so she arranged to rent a cottage at San Fabian beach for an afternoon, complete with karaoke machine, where we could have a bit of family bonding and a good sing-song.

We decided to take a trike there, rather than the Jeepney (because Graham had assumed it was a couple of miles to the beach from our hotel).

The obliging trike driver agreed on p200, and off we went.
After about 10 miles, even tightwad me began to feel a bit guilty. :cwm25:

After what seemed about 15 miles we finally arrived and I gave the nice man a p50 tip .

The cottage was ready, weather nice and sunny, and we awaited the arrival of Merly's mother, brothers and little niece (?).

What lovely shy and humble people they were. Beer and food was bought, some enthusiastic singing done, and generally a good time was had by all. I was so happy that Merly was able to see her family after such a long time too.

Here are some pictures from the day:
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2016.18.52_zpsq3n5uurl.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2016.19.21_zpsz9vzt50j.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2016.19.34_zpsaa8lwupt.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2018.03.18_zpsuawxhgip.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2018.04.24_zpstsfxg8gc.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2018.04.46_zpscehfor7c.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2018.07.06_zpsvdjn3ff5.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-29%2018.07.23_zps0pjnms6m.jpg
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/th_2014Phils058_zps48f19374.jpg (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils058_zps48f19374.mp4)

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/2014Phils055_zps4195d280.jpg~original

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All in all, a lovely day. :smile:

[grahamw48]

Mercedes has a beautiful sweet singing voice, but was too shy to be videoed. Just managed a snippet...:biggrin:
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(click on this)
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/th_ShyMerly_zps8107a5b4.jpg (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/ShyMerly_zps8107a5b4.mp4)

[stevie c]

Thanks for posting graham what a great read
It certainly shows you had a fantastic time

[grahamw48]

Thanks Stevie :xxgrinning--00xx3:....not finished yet. :biggrin:

[grahamw48]

Just in case anyone missed my 'performance' at the Subic karaoke...:biggrin:

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTECvjkWBKQ

[stevewool]

Graham is that a space ship flying around in the video :biggrin:

[grahamw48]

I dunno mate. I think it's a light fitting. Most of the staff in there are baklas though, which is quite 'interesting' lol. I had a great time. Just a pity my 'Jumpin' Jack Flash', complete with authentic Jagger moves wasn't recorded. :cwm3:

[grahamw48]

Will continue the story of our adventures... after lunch. :smile:

[stevewool]

Just a pity my 'Jumpin' Jack Flash', complete with authentic Jagger moves wasn't recorded. :cwm3:

WOW there is a god :biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin:

[Michael Parnham]

Just in case anyone missed my 'performance' at the Subic karaoke...:biggrin:

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTECvjkWBKQ

Good to see you're a Stones fan Graham! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

..and I always thought you were a man of taste Steve ! :biggrin:

[grahamw48]

My favourite band Michael. First record I bought was 'All Over Now'. :smile:

[highlander01]

Impressive singing performance & did well to reach those high notes...... :smile:

[grahamw48]

Wow...you're a friend for life . :xxgrinning--00xx3::icon_lol:

It was the tight underpants that did it. :biggrin:

Actually, I am singing a bit 'flat', because I just couldn't quite get there. I'm really a bass baritone voice, so you can imagine the strain. :Cuckoo: lol

[marksroomspain]

She's a beautiful lady Graham...:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

...To continue:

After having spent a most pleasant time in Pangasinan it was time to shoot over to Angeles City, where I'd arranged to see a friend do his live Rock and Roll act at his club.

Back onto the Victory Liner for the ride back to Dau, and then a quick trike ride to the Clarkton Hotel in Angeles, where I'd already booked a room
by phone.

Angeles is a place I know really well, as I've been living in and visiting the place since 1990.
With an expat population nudging 30,000 and of course the huge 'entertainment' district, it's hardly a sleepy little place. :wink:

However, even for someone who is not there to patronise the girlie bars, there is plenty to do and see. :smile:

I hadn't styed at the Clarkton before, but it is long-established, German-run, and has an excellent reputation. We were not disappointed...especially at the price of p1600 a night. Positively luxurious, and with its own swimming pool and attached nightclub. :)

Naturally, Merly first took pictures of the bed. :Erm:

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First...best view of Gra: :biggrin:
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-27%2011.28.27_zps3cvcp1me.jpg

Here's the Clarkton pics...

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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-30%2014.46.07_zpsyqv9nd6i.jpg
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Blimey, is that all ? :Erm:

Anyway, we ate mainly at a lovely restaurant called Edelweiss. I have known the Austrian owner for many years. Delicious food ! (and cheap).
Perusing the breakfast menu, on the patio out front....
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/2014-02-01%2011.56.26_zpsqlfo7ufb.jpg

[stevewool]

good pictures again graham, the pictures of the bed thing, is it the bed or mattress thats interesting

[stevewool]

seems like since your son has moved out, you have the freedom to come and go as you please

[grahamw48]

She's a beautiful lady Graham...:xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks Mark. :xxgrinning--00xx3: I keep telling her that, but she keeps calling herself 'ugly'. :NoNo:

[grahamw48]

good pictures again graham, the pictures of the bed thing, is it the bed or mattress thats interesting

Your guess is as good as mine mate. lol

My boy was round a couple of hours ago. Great to see him. I really miss him being around. :cwm3:

[grahamw48]

Here's my favourite brekkies at Edelweiss...followed by Merly's. :smile:
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/2014-02-01%2011.59.04_zpseb9spgq7.jpg
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/2014-02-01%2011.59.16_zpshupt6iws.jpg

Those aren't small plates either, and the meal included coffee..less than p200 each, if I remember rightly. :smile:

[grahamw48]

Phew...seeing that grub has made me hungry and realise that I haven't had my tea yet ! :cwm24:

Back soon with more...

[stevewool]

fried potatoes and onions yum yum yum

[grahamw48]

Yep...yummy ! :biggrin:

Their Schnitzel is also delicious. :smile:

Well, stoked up with food now, so to continue...

Of course my main purpose of visiting AC was to look in on my friend's show.
Before that I took a leisurely stroll down the main bar area of the town with Merly.
Now this place can best be described as a 'human funfair' of discos, girlie bars (over 100), restaurants and all-night shops.

There are plenty of pictures and videos on the internet, so I didn't bother to add to them.

Merly's face was an absolute picture. :laugher:

She's had a sheltered life...say no more. :biggrin:

So, on to the show.

I was welcomed by 'Rockin Dave'...a lovely guy. We were shown around, bought drinks and given a tour of all his many mementos covering the walls...past gigs , Dave's career of touring the world, and other rock and roll musicians. :smile:

Here's a picture of the two of us:

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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-30%2020.21.34_zpsfnsfanhf.jpg
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...and here's a snippet of his show. A really talented pianist and singer, playing the hydraulically-mounted piano with his hands, feet, elbows and anything else that came to hand. :icon_lol:
Just terrific. :smile:

(click on it)
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/th_video-2014-01-30-20-43-09_zpskhc6qpag.jpg (http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/video-2014-01-30-20-43-09_zpskhc6qpag.mp4)

[Michael Parnham]

My favourite band Michael. First record I bought was 'All Over Now'. :smile:

And they are still the greatest Graham, well apart from you, of course!:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Hahaha. Thanks. You're as daft as me Michael. :icon_lol:

[Michael Parnham]

Hahaha. Thanks .You're as daft as me Michael. :icon_lol:

I'm dafter than you Graham:laugher::laugher::laugher:

[RickyR]

Super photos Graham, looks like you had an amazing time.

[grahamw48]

Thanks Ricky...yes, a really great 3 weeks with my lady. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[captaincay]

Great write up graham, it is similar to a telenovela :biggrin: the more it is cut the more you'll ask for more :Jump:

[grahamw48]

Thanks ...and for reminding me that I haven't actually finished it yet ! :doh

[stevie c]

...To continue:

After having spent a most pleasant time in Pangasinan it was time to shoot over to Angeles City, where I'd arranged to see a friend do his live Rock and Roll act at his club.

Back onto the Victory Liner for the ride back to Dau, and then a quick trike ride to the Clarkton Hotel in Angeles, where I'd already booked a room
by phone.

Angeles is a place I know really well, as I've been living in and visiting the place since 1990.
With an expat population nudging 30,000 and of course the huge 'entertainment' district, it's hardly a sleepy little place. :wink:

However, even for someone who is not there to patronise the girlie bars, there is plenty to do and see. :smile:

I hadn't styed at the Clarkton before, but it is long-established, German-run, and has an excellent reputation. We were not disappointed...especially at the price of p1600 a night. Positively luxurious, and with its own swimming pool and attached nightclub. :)

Naturally, Merly first took pictures of the bed. :Erm:

.
First...best view of Gra: :biggrin:
.
http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-27%2011.28.27_zps3cvcp1me.jpg

Here's the Clarkton pics...

.
http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-30%2014.46.07_zpsyqv9nd6i.jpg
.
Blimey, is that all ? :Erm:

Anyway, we ate mainly at a lovely restaurant called Edelweiss. I have known the Austrian owner for many years. Delicious food ! (and cheap).
Perusing the breakfast menu, on the patio out front....
.
http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/2014-02-01%2011.56.26_zpsqlfo7ufb.jpg

Hi Graham the rock n roll friend wouldn't be rocking daves would where he plays the piano with his feet would it it's located in friendship

[stevie c]

He is an English fella if i remember correctly he is from Kent

[grahamw48]

Yes, English and from Kent originally I believe.

His bar (Midnite Rock) is about halfway along Perimeter road. :smile:

[stevie c]

Yep that's the one. I often go there... it's not too far away from the gentlemens club.... Dave certainly knows how to put on a good show.

Graham, do you go to Diamond when you're there? There's a bar called the British Legion owned by a good friend of mine from Muswell Hill, London. Funnily enough, his name is Dave also.

[grahamw48]

I know Diamond subd, but never really went out in the evenings there, so I'm afraid I don't know the bar. I'll take a look next time. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Steve.r]

.Interesting scenery in the Philippines...on our way to Dagupan, from the bus. The volcano Mt.Arayat (near Angeles City). 3,366ft high doesn't sound that much, but when it just sticks up out of a flat plain, in isolation...pretty impressive ! :smile:
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http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag281/merlysalinas5/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-01/2014-01-28%2014.41.01_zpscau9y5pg.jpg
On a clear day we can see this from my town Bongabon

[grahamw48]

I must pay you a visit next time Steve. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Meanwhile...one that I forgot....sign of the global warming times ? Subic Bay:
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http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/grahamw48/Tsunamiwarning_zps967fa60c.jpg~original

[gWaPito]

Cheers Graham..finally found time to go through it all in one go. Brilliant :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Thanks Mark :xxgrinning--00xx3:...and for the rep. :wink: