Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper
I will be in a similar position next year... (well, 1.5 days in my case) and am looking at an organised tour to Corregidor...
As I have only ever transited Manila before I'd rather leave the transport questions to someone else....  There is an overnight option on the tours I've been looking at... |
I did this last year and spent a night on Corregidor Island. Quite enjoyed it and would recommend it. It was the location where GEN Mac Arthur departed from, think "I shall return" and there is a statue showing where he left from. Ended up singing karaoke in a tiny shop type place late at night with a heap of Filipino people and having a wonderful time.
Very few people do the overnight option, most leave on the afternoon boat.
Things to be aware of, the hotel is basic, i.e. no internet, tv etc. The actual accommodation is ok and the air conditioning kept me cool enough to sleep.
In the morning you can do a sunrise tour and walk through a few areas where there was some fighting during the war.
Be aware that according to the history provided on these tours the only allied country was the United States. It does get a bit nauseating at times especially knowing that Australians (amongst others) did fight in the Philipines.
I found having a local guide (friend from university) was of great benefit when in the Philipines. I felt unsafe there virtually the whole time and was warned not to travel in certain areas after dark. Twice I had issues where people tried to enter my taxi whilst I was in it and was very glad that I insisted that the driver lock all doors.
Re feeling unsafe I realise that some areas in all countries are unsafe but I had just been in Thailand and Cambodia and never felt unsafe there. I was at Bangkok airport (and in a hotel nearby) during the occupation and felt safer than when I was in Manila. Still I am glad I went and saw a little bit of the place.
If you get a chance to go to Intramuros then I recommend this for a couple of hours as well. Also, Manila's Catholic Cathedral is awesome.
Transport from the airport can be dicey. As mentioned I had a guide and they hired a car from MNL city to the airport, waited for me and then took me to my hotel. It was cheaper than hiring a car from the airport to the city.
There are armed security guards everywhere especially when you go enter shops/hotels etc. I stayed at the Manila Hotel and when the car pulled into the car park we were met with a guard pointing the shotgun at the driver whilst another guard checked the car, under the bonnet, in the boot and with the mirror around the edge. Then entering the hotel through the metal detector and luggage gets x-rayed.
As a white Anglo male I was just rushed through but my Filipino friends copped the full grope and frisk by a same sex guard and their possessions fully examined. The airport seemed benign in contrast.
Be interested to hear how you go when there.
Seriously though.. Thankyou!
