Touring Session Drummer in Marawi City

so i just landed in marawi city and the first thing i noticed? it's hot. like, "why am i wearing jeans?" hot. according to my weather app it's sitting around 21°c right now, but with the humidity it feels like i'm drumming inside a sauna. perfect for breaking a sweat before even setting up my kit. if you're into tropical humidity, congrats, you're gonna love it here. if not, maybe bring a portable fan or something.

i'm here on a quick gig with a local indie band, and honestly, i had no idea what to expect. marawi doesn't exactly pop up on every tourist's radar, but that's part of the charm. it's raw, it's real, and the streets have this chaotic rhythm that matches my drumming style way too well.

i stayed at a small guesthouse near the city center, nothing fancy, but clean and safe. someone told me that the food here is insane, so i took their advice and hit up a place called *alhaya eatery. lemme tell you, the chicken piaparan? next level. tender, spicy, and fragrant with that hint of turmeric. i also heard from a local that the best way to explore is by tricycle, so i did exactly that. it's cheap, fast, and the drivers are basically walking encyclopedias of the city.

if you get bored, iligan city and cagayan de oro* are just a short drive away. both are worth a detour if you're into waterfalls or white-water rafting.

random pro-tip: don't leave without trying the local coffee. it's strong enough to keep you drumming through a 3-hour set. i found a little spot near the market, but i can't remember the name. just follow the smell of roasting beans and you'll find it.

one thing i love about traveling for gigs is the unpredictability. like today, i was walking back to my place and stumbled upon a street art festival. no idea it was happening, but suddenly i'm surrounded by murals, live music, and the smell of grilled corn. it felt like the city was throwing me a welcome party.

here's a quick map of the area so you can get your bearings:

and because i know you're curious, here are a few pics i snapped:

if you're planning to visit, just remember: marawi isn't a polished tourist hotspot, and that's exactly why it's worth your time. bring curiosity, an open mind, and maybe an extra pair of drumsticks. you never know when you'll need 'em.

You might also be interested in:

• https://votoris.com/post/cartagenas-not-a-postcard-a-messy-reality-check-for-newcomers
• https://votoris.com/post/midnight-heat-in-manado
• https://votoris.com/post/remote-work-in-vientiane-my-cynical-take-on-this-paradise
• https://votoris.com/post/johannesburg-the-city-of-gold-and-concrete
• https://votoris.com/post/how-to-find-an-apartment-in-birmingham-without-getting-scammed-or-losing-your-mind