Dust & Dim Sum: Lost in Manila
okay, so, i’m pretty sure i’m running on fumes and the lingering scent of *panaderia. manila… wow. it’s… a lot. like, a beautiful, chaotic, slightly terrifying lot. i landed yesterday, and honestly, my brain hasn’t quite caught up. the temp was 27.88, feels like 31.09, pressure 1010, humidity 75 - it’s like stepping into a sauna that’s also trying to be a tropical rainforest. i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing.
I’m a touring session drummer, so naturally, my first instinct was to find a band. which, let me tell you, is harder than it sounds. everyone’s either playing weddings or trying to launch a TikTok dance challenge. i did manage to stumble into this place called ‘The Rusty Bucket’ - it’s a dive bar with a surprisingly decent sound system and a guy named Rico who plays a mean bass. he’s got this whole ‘lived-in’ vibe, you know? like he’s seen things.
I’m staying in Poblacion, which is basically the epicenter of everything. it’s a weird mix of upscale restaurants and street food stalls, and the noise level is… intense. if you get bored, Makati and Taguig are just a short drive away, but honestly, i’m trying to embrace the madness.
Someone told me that the best siomai in the city is at Goldilocks - and you know, it’s probably true. i’ve been living on it. i also heard that the Quiapo Market is a must-see, but be prepared to haggle like your life depends on it. i almost got ripped off buying a bunch of dried mangoes, but i managed to talk my way out of it. mostly by yelling.
Here’s the lowdown on what i’ve been up to:
*Gear: My sticks (obviously), my sticks bag (essential), a cheap but reliable metronome app on my phone, and a portable recorder - because Rico keeps suggesting we record some jams. and a ridiculously large water bottle. seriously, the humidity is brutal.
*Food: Siomai (duh), adobo (a must), halo-halo (a dessert that’s basically a rainbow of ice cream and fruit), and a whole lot of pandesal (the Filipino bread rolls - they’re addictive).
*Transportation: Jeepneys are the way to go, but be prepared for a sensory overload. Grab is also pretty good, but it gets expensive fast.
*Safety: Keep your valuables close, and don’t wander around alone at night. just a general rule, you know?
I checked out Intramuros yesterday - it’s like stepping back in time. the walls are incredible, and the history is fascinating. it’s a bit touristy, but it’s still worth a visit. I found a little cafe there called ‘Casa Manila’ that served the best coffee I’ve had in weeks. Seriously, it was a revelation.
I overheard some locals talking about a hidden karaoke bar in Malate - apparently, it’s legendary. they said it’s run by a former PBB* (Pinoy Big Brother) contestant, and the drinks are cheap. i’m adding it to my list.
Speaking of locals, they’re incredibly friendly and welcoming. everyone’s always smiling and offering you a drink. it’s a really positive vibe. i’m trying to learn a few basic Tagalog phrases - ‘magandang araw’ (good day) and ‘salamat’ (thank you) are a good start.
I found this amazing little blog about Manila street food: https://www.manilastreetfood.com/. Seriously, check it out. And for accommodation, I’m loving this place near Makati: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g298467-d1234567-Reviews-The-Pod_Makati-Makati_City_National_Capital_Region_Metro_Manila_Philippines.html. It's a bit basic, but the location is perfect. And if you're looking for some local events, this Facebook group is a goldmine: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ManilaEvents/.
Okay, I need to go. I think i’m going to find Rico and try to convince him to let me play a few fills on the next recording. wish me luck. and maybe send me some siomai. seriously.
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