Civilization
- Feb 13, 2016
- 3 min read
Location:
Davao City, The Philippines
On the departure bus out of El Nido we saw the most amazing sunset. Unfortunately I couldn't get any photos so I guess we will have to return! Anyway, we have another connecting flight to catch. I've really enjoyed my big surprise, by there has been a lot of travelling which would be fine but when most of your destinations include flying through Manila where fights are usually always delayed due to heavy congestion at the airport, it really doesn't result in a happy camper. Of course, right on cue, over the intercom comes 'Due to the late arrival of the turnaround aircraft, your flight will be delayed.' There you have it, another delayed flight. I think it would be more of a shocker if it actually left on time. Now that would be something to talk about it! At least they were only short flights!
A few hours later than expected, we jumped in a taxi which brought us all the way to our hotel, yes hotel! We are going up in the world. When we arrived at the 'First Pacific Inn' our taxi driver insisted on bringing our luggage in for us. Inside, we were greeted by a very friendly security guard/concierge who insisted on bringing our luggage up to our room for us. If I am going to be treated likely royalty, who am I to refuse!
When we opened the door to our room, we were so happy. If there was one thing I have been longing, and that is a proper bathroom. It's really the simple things in life, like comfort that one takes for granted and when there taken away from you, one can really appreciate their return. Being able to shave and have a hot shower is pure luxury. The only annoying thing is time is simply not on our side. By the time we arrived in the hotel, it was already late in the evening which only gave us a few hours as we have to check out in the morning. Oh well! I guess we will have to make the most of it now!
After a nice sleep, we both woke up nice and refreshed. After some advice from the hotel staff, we went for food to a very tasty buffet food place just down the road that really satisfied our rumbling stomachs!
With much debate on whether we should go on a trip to an eagle sanctuary, which is a few hours' drive, there and back, we decided against it as we wouldn't have been able to enjoy it properly. Instead, we opted for something a bit more local.
On the way we stopped off to get some water, when we were greeted by a group of young girls who were fascinated by how tall I am. They insisted on getting my photo with them. Over here, I am a bit of celebrity. Poor Jason gets a little bit jealous sometimes. He can't understand why he can't be famous like myself and Lady Gaga!
Right beside us is the famous 'Peoples Park.' Even though the park was not open yet, they let us through as we are foreigners but they wouldn't let the locals in. It's a really cool park with an avenue of famous characters and celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. There is lots to see. The only thing I didn't like is the way they had a monkey locked up in a large cage with nothing to climb onto and nothing to look forward to but silly people pointing at him, feeding him food that is not part of his diet and making it justifiable for having him locked in a cage like that. For me, that was a major negative of the park. Up until that point, I was really enjoying the large open space!
We may not have had very much time here, but it's a good reason to return, if even to visit the eagle sanctuary. The city has a really good feeling about it, with warm, friendly people who are extremely hospitable.
By Andrew
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