Around Manila...

Manila has a major problem with traffic. Ironically, the pollution helps to create the magnificent sunsets on Manila Bay. The cars and other vehicles run on diesel and leaded gasoline and you spend a lot of time just idling your engine. The poverty here is out in the open. For example, just walking around the streets near my hotel, you could see whole families stretched out on the sidewalk sleeping. As an obvious Westerner, I was immediately targeted by street vendors and sad-eyed kids looking for a handout. Gambling is legal here, and so I decided to walk through the casino at the Hyatt Hotel. Pretty unimpressive by Las Vegas standards but people seemed to be enjoying themselves. There are a lot of karaoke bars around and the locals never miss a chance to belt out a well-lubricated song for their friends. Lots of great fun for all. More later...