So close to Hong Kong, yet I’ve only been once. Our visit was not the usual hit-the-island-beach holiday.  We went with our Filippino helper to visit her family and her aunt (who had worked for A’s family for 30 years).  We saw much less of ‘tourist’ Philippines so it was very interesting.  It was a very humbling visit – seeing how little so many have.  How little work there is, especially for men.  Lilian and her family were so welcoming and took us out on day trips and of course just loved seeing T. who had just celebrated her 1st birthday. (She went on to have at least 3 more parties whilst we were there)

When: October 2011

Where: Clark, Angeles City, Subic Bay

Who: with A, T and our helper Lilian

How: We flew direct from Hong Kong to Clark (former US airbase). We travelled around by car, driven by various members of Lilian’s family.

Weather: Hot and sunny, a bit humid

Food: most food is heavily influenced by American fast food – I have never eaten so much fried chicken in my life.  We did get to eat some loca food that involved frog, and crickets fried with garlic (surprisingly good)

Sights: The local village (seeing how people live), Subic bay Tiger safari – up close and personal with Tigers, though sad to see big cats in small cages.

Surprises: how little genuine “Filippino” food there is around.

Tips: