Dust & Dim Sum: Lost in Manila

okay, so, i’m pretty sure i’m running on fumes and the sheer volume of *mango sticky rice i consumed. 1688505… that’s the timestamp on my phone, which is currently displaying a picture of a very confused pigeon. 1608160137 - that’s the time i realized i’d left my passport in the hotel safe. small victories, right?

Manila. it’s… a lot. like, a beautiful, chaotic, slightly terrifying lot. the humidity is clinging to everything - my hair, my clothes, my sanity. the pressure is 1012, which feels about right, honestly. it’s like being wrapped in a warm, slightly damp blanket. the temp feels like 34.33, and the min was 29.94, max 30.92. i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing.

I’m staying in this little place near Intramuros - it’s basically a crumbling fortress that’s been lovingly (and somewhat haphazardly) restored. the air smells like incense and something vaguely floral, and my neighbors are this family of street vendors who seem to be perpetually arguing about the best way to sell kakanin (rice cakes). if you get bored, Cebu is just a short drive away. someone told me that the seafood there is insane. i heard that the traffic is a nightmare, though. you’ve been warned.

I spent yesterday wandering around Binondo Chinatown - seriously, it’s like stepping into another world. the streets are crammed with shops selling everything from dried seafood to jade jewelry. i got completely lost, naturally. i ended up in this tiny alleyway where an old woman was making dumplings by hand. she didn’t speak a word of English, but she gave me a wink and a dumpling. it was the best dumpling i’ve ever had.

I stumbled across this incredible street art scene in Poblacion - huge murals everywhere, bursting with color and stories. it’s a total vibe. i even tried to sketch one, but my skills are… questionable. let’s just say it looked less like a mural and more like a toddler’s fever dream.

I’m trying to document everything, but my camera is constantly overheating. i’ve got this little Sony a6000, and it’s basically begging for mercy. i’m relying heavily on my phone, which is currently displaying a notification about a flash sale on pandesal (a Filipino bread roll). priorities, you know?

Here’s the gear list, because apparently, i need to be organized:
Sony a6000 (mostly for show)
iPhone 13 (the real workhorse)
Waterproof backpack (essential)
Portable charger (lifesaver)
A ridiculous amount of sunscreen
And, of course, a near-infinite supply of dim sum.

I overheard some guys at a bar talking about a hidden karaoke bar in Makati - apparently, it’s legendary. they said it’s run by a former PBB (Pinoy Big Brother) contestant. i’m intrigued. i’ll check it out tomorrow, if i can find it.

Speaking of bars, I found this place called “The Curator” - it’s got this amazing cocktail menu and a really cool, dimly lit atmosphere.

Someone told me that their Negronis are the best in the city. i’m a sucker for a good Negroni.

I’m also trying to avoid tourist traps. i’m following the advice of a local blogger i found on Instagram - @wanderlustmanila. she’s got some seriously good tips. she warned me about the jeepneys - apparently, they’re beautiful but also incredibly dangerous. i’ve ridden one, and it was… an experience. let’s just say i’m sticking to taxis for now.

I’m heading to the National Museum tomorrow to check out the collection. i’m hoping to learn a little bit about Filipino history and culture. i’m a bit of a history nerd*, you see.

Seriously, Manila is a sensory overload. it’s loud, it’s crowded, it’s messy, and it’s utterly captivating. it’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re looking for an adventure, you’ve got to check it out. just bring your patience, your appetite, and a really good map. and maybe a spare passport.

Check out some more local spots here: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g298571-Manila.html and https://www.yelp.com/map?fid=23711&cid=63771111&bid=63771111&lat=14.500000&lon=121.250000

And for more local insights: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlustmanila/

Okay, I’m off to find more dim sum. wish me luck.

“Don’t trust anyone who says Manila is easy,” a grizzled taxi driver told me, adjusting his cap. “It’ll chew you up and spit you out, but it’ll also leave you with a story you’ll never forget.”

“The best way to experience Manila is to get lost,” a young artist advised me, sketching in a notebook. “Just wander around, talk to people, and let the city surprise you.”

Seriously, go explore. You won’t regret it.

And if you see a confused pigeon, tell it i said hello.

Dust & Dim Sum: Lost in Manila

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About the author: Ruby Wilder

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