And thus, we have arrived – Mecaja will now be our new place of residence: In about two months, we will move into a newly built longstay bungalow that is somewhat secluded but still more or less located on the resort grounds. After that, a second bungalow is to be built – as well as Christian and Jhed's own house.

What awaits us here will be revealed – there will definitely be a lot to do. The plans include roasted cashews in various flavors and homemade coconut wine for guests, a pizza and smoking oven that we want to build together with Christian, and a small herb and vegetable garden around the house with everything we need for cooking. A few animals are also expected to join us eventually – and the currently very paperwork-heavy resort operation is planned to gradually become a bit more digital. So there will be plenty to write about in the upcoming entries.

On July 26, we landed in Manila and, after a few hours there, flew straight on to Puerto Princesa on Palawan. There, we finally reunited with Christian and Jhed and their children, and together we took a taxi for the 2.5-hour ride to Mecaja.

And so we’ve arrived—Mecaja will now be our new home: In about two months, we’ll move into a newly built long-stay bungalow that’s a bit off the beaten path but still more or less on the resort grounds. After that, a second bungalow is planned—as well as Christian and Jhed’s own house.

We’ll see what awaits us here—there will definitely be plenty to do. Our plans range from roasted cashews in various flavors and homemade coconut wine for guests, to a pizza oven and smoker that we want to build together with Christian, all the way to a small herb and vegetable garden around the house with everything we need for cooking. We also plan to add a few animals at some point—and the resort’s operations, which are still very paper-heavy, will gradually become a bit more digital. So there’s plenty to write about for the next few posts.

Hello 2026!

For the first time since the beginning of the journey, we traveled separately for about 10 days. I visited my friend and fellow musician Laurenz in Romblon. This involved first going to Manila and then a 9-hour ferry ride to the island of Romblon. There was the 'Biniray' festival the following weekend, an annual event featuring a parade of various drumming groups and dance performances. As a bonus surprise, I had the honor of sharing the stage with Laurenz's crew 'Passepartout' and getting people to celebrate.

All in all, it was an incredible adventure!

I belong to that gradually fading generation that still remembers the Vietnam War, the traumatic images from the jungle, the shameless lies of Presidents Kennedy, Nixon, and Johnson and their strategist Kissinger, and the mass protests against the senseless slaughter. Angeles City in the Philippines, just under a hundred kilometers north of the capital Manila, is a relic from that time.

Angeles was home to Clark Air Base, one of the largest U.S. Air Force bases in Asia. Subic Bay is also only 70 km away. The U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay was the logistical hub for the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet. The 7th Fleet was the maritime backbone of American warfare in Vietnam, active from the beginning of the escalation in 1965 until the dramatic end ten years later. Vietnam lies 1200 km west of Clark and Subic Bay, across the South China Sea.

On June 1, I flew with Cebu Pacific from Cebu to Angeles City. Based on user comments online, one might avoid booking the budget airline: notoriously late, poor service, frequent cancellations. I have flown with Cebu Pacific three times, first from Davao to Panglao, then from Cebu to Angeles, and finally onward to Bangkok.

This flight was particularly cheap: the three-and-a-half-hour journey cost 95 euros, including my heavy suitcase, and I snagged a seat in the front row and could settle in comfortably. All flights were on time, the Airbus planes were new and clean, the service no worse than in most budget airlines, and I experienced neither delays nor cancellations.

Remnants of the Vietnam War

The role Angeles City plays dates back to the Vietnam War. In the 1960s and 1970s, tens of thousands of soldiers operated from Clark and Subic Bay, and both when they were stationed and when they returned from combat missions, they wanted to blow off steam.

This military presence shaped the local economy. Local entrepreneurs opened bars, brothels, massage parlors, and nightclubs. The Americans withdrew in 1991 after the eruption of the Pinatubo volcano had severely damaged the base. However, even after the last American troops left in 1991, this infrastructure remained. It was now foreign tourists, and later also Filipinos, who were lured by the sinful promises of the city.

Comparison with Pattaya

A comparison with Pattaya in Thailand is compelling. Pattaya also originally developed because of a significant U.S. base, the U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, commonly known as

Arriving in Cebu City on May 29, 2025, was chaotic. I took the fast ferry named Oceanjet 988 from Tagbilaran on the island of Bohol across the strait to Cebu, a thrilling two-hour ride through the waves. As bags were unloaded at the Cebu port, there was an incredible commotion; at times, I feared being crushed in the throng of people trying to fish their luggage out of an amorphous pile of bags.

The arrival was somewhat symbolic: Cebu, the capital of the island of the same name and the province that comprises 167 other islands, is the second-largest city in the Philippines. Cebu is bustling and noisy, dirty in certain neighborhoods, congested and polluted with motor vehicles, especially scooters, jeepneys, motorcycle taxis, and tuk-tuks. The metropolitan area has grown rapidly, from around 1.5 million in 1990 to nearly three million today.

Catholic for 500 years

Cebu's history is, as it often is, extremely exciting. (Readers may have already noticed that I enjoy diving into history.) Long before 1521, when the explorer Ferdinand Magellan (who was Portuguese by birth) first attempted to conquer the area on behalf of the Spanish, Cebu was a significant trading center called Kangdaya. The indigenous Cebuano people lived here, ruled by the Rajahs (princes) of Kangdaya.

Magellan failed; he was killed in the Battle of Mactan. Yet he left behind a legacy that still shapes the Philippines today: Rajah Humabon and his wife Hara Humamay, who took the names Carlos and Juana, and around 500 locals were baptized Catholic by Magellan's chaplain on April 14, 1521.

That they had accepted the Christian faith did neither them nor the Spaniards any good: after his victory over Magellan, Humabon alias Carlos ordered the massacre of the surviving Spaniards. 44 years later, in 1565, conquerors led by Miguel López de Legazpi returned. They killed about 500 locals and burned down 1500 houses.

The Spaniards established a settlement in turn. The locals had named their port «Sigu», meaning «place of trade», and the location «Sugbo». The Spaniards took these names and distorted them as «Cebú», which became the term for the island and the province thereafter. They named their settlement «Villa del San Miguel de Cebu», the «Village of Saint Michael of Cebu». St. Michael was Legazpi's patron saint.

On January 1, 1571, the governor changed the name of the city to «La Villa del Santísimo Nombre de Jesús» («Village of the Most Holy Name of Jesus»). During the Spanish conquest in 1565, a statue of the child Jesus, «Santo Niño», was discovered in an intact wooden box in the middle of the burned settlement. This statue had been gifted by Magellan to the queen of Cebu when she was baptized in 1521.

The church at the site where this figure was found and is now kept, the Basílica Minore del Santo Niño, is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines and the cradle of Catholicism in the country. Accordingly, it plays a prominent role for devout Filipino Catholics. Crowds of believers pilgrimage to Santo Niño, as I could see myself. The church is full; the faith is celebrated intensely. In addition, Santo Niño is the focus of the annual Sinulog Festival, which attracts millions of pilgrims. Unfortunately, I missed this colorful, loud, intense celebration; it takes place in January.

Destroyed in World War II

Just a few streets away stands the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, the seat of the archbishop. After wars, fires, and earthquakes, the cathedral has been rebuilt time and again. The first cathedral, dating back to the 16th century, was a simple wooden structure covered with palm leaves. The construction of a first stone church began in 1689 but was only completed in the 1780s because the Spanish crown repeatedly ran out of money. The bell tower was added in 1864. The cathedral was heavily damaged in 1944 by bombings from Allied forces; only the facade, bell tower, and some exterior walls remain standing. The current condition of the cathedral is largely due to the rebuilding efforts after World War II.

Cebu City suffered heavily during World War II. In May 1942, the city was almost completely destroyed by Japanese troops; only the port remained intact. During the liberation of the Philippines by American forces, further heavy fighting occurred between March and May 1945, particularly the Battle of Cebu. During these liberation struggles, hundreds of civilians died, including from American bombings. On March 15, 1945, a bomb also hit the courtyard of the cathedral.

The first native bishop of Cebu was Juan Bautista Gorordo (1862–1934). He led the diocese of Cebu from 1910 until his resignation due to health reasons in 1931. Visitors can experience firsthand how Bishop Juan Bautista and his wealthy family lived during the Spanish colonial era at the Casa Gorordo Museum. On the ground floor, originally a storage and garage for horse-drawn carriages, we find, among other things, an exhibition of historical means of transport and agricultural tools, as well as a three-dimensional, interactive city map documenting the development of Cebu City from the 16th century to 1945.

On the upper floor were the receptions and living areas of the family, furnished with antique furniture made of fine woods. In the Caida, the sitting room, guests were welcomed. A dining table in the Comedor (dining room) is set elegantly with antique silver cutlery, porcelain, crystal glasses, and old earthenware jugs. Bedrooms were furnished with canopied beds; intricately carved wardrobes were also present in the bedrooms, along with traditional washbasins with mirrors.

The Casa Gorordo is also the only preserved mansion in the region with its own integrated chapel. Here, Bishop Juan Gorordo once held private masses. Visitors can see centuries-old religious relics, crucifixes, and saint figures. A traditional kitchen with an open fire, earthenware vessels, and historical baking and cooking utensils, along with an open terrace at the back of the house overlooking a large garden, complete the ensemble.

Monument to the Conquerors

The fact that Magellan and the Spanish conquistadors, despite their infamous role, do not have a negative image even today is evidenced by the Heritage of Cebu Monument. Created by renowned Filipino sculptor Eduardo «Ed» Castrillo, the tableau made of concrete, bronze, brass, and steel depicts scenes from Cebu's past: indigenous origins, Magellan's arrival, the baptism of the first Christians, colonial churches, and historical figures—an intriguing three-dimensional history book. Right next to it is the present being brought to life: posters celebrate the victory of engineer Nesztor Archival in the mayoral elections, which had just recently taken place during my visit.

To defend the city and especially the port, the Spaniards built Fort San Pedro, a fortress made of coral stone, in the 16th century. Behind its thick walls lie quiet courtyards and exhibitions about the colonial past. Cannons still gaze out at the port. During my visit, white canopies, tables, and chairs covered with white cloth were being set up.

Cebu's «Taj Mahal»

High above the city stands the Temple of Leah. The monumental structure with its columns, lion statues, and wide steps is inspired by the Parthenon in Athens and serves as a kind of modern Taj Mahal. The wealthy businessman Teodoro S. Adarna Jr. (1938-2018) had the temple built as a monument «out of love and admiration for Leah Albino Adarna», his deceased wife, with whom he was married for 53 years. The question of whether the Temple of Leah represents «grandeur and beauty», which Teodoro hopes «will be preserved for the next 3000 years», or rather monumental kitsch, has yet to be answered by me. My opinion on the matter is, however, unimportant: thousands of visitors every day speak for themselves.

Down by the river, between skyscrapers, shopping malls, and the coast, several slums squeeze in, some even on and beside garbage dumps. About 300,000 people are said to live in these «informal neighborhoods», our guide says. But rather than confronting ourselves with misery, we prefer to face affluence: in the hills above the city, an exclusive, Chinese-influenced villa community has emerged. Large estates with curved roofs, red gates, and lush gardens represent the influence of the Chinese community, which has dominated Cebu's trade for centuries.

In the midst of these magnificent residences stands the Cebu Taoist Temple, built in 1972 by the Chinese community, with its dragon figures and pagodas. We ascend long stairs, enjoying the tranquility and the panoramic views over the sprawling metropolis, from which the slums are not discernible.

At the end of May 2025, I am traveling with many mixed impressions from Davao to Cebu, from the third largest to the second largest city in the Philippines. As mentioned, I have neglected the dreamy island of Palawan this time. However, I do not want to miss out on the beach completely and am flying from Davao to the small island of Panglao, which is separated from the larger Bohol by a strait connected by two bridges.

For a week, I stay in a mini-resort near the famous Alona Beach on Panglao. I chose this resort due to good reviews on Agoda and booking.com, the relatively low price of 28 Euros per night, and especially because of its name: It is called

The Philippines are a popular destination for beach holidays and activities such as snorkeling, diving, boat trips, and fishing. It's also a wonderful place to relax. Boracay, one of Southeast Asia's most popular holiday destinations, isn't known for its miles of white sand beaches and wild parties. The long, narrow island of Palawan in the west of the Philippines, with its countless islets, boasts idyllic, often hidden and secluded beaches.

Of course, the temptation would have been great to laze around again in Palawan, which I already know. But I opted for the tougher route: Philippine cities have a reputation for being rather tedious and rough. But if I want to get to know a country better, I also have to visit cities. So I travel to Davao, Cebu, and Angeles City in succession. I'm skipping the greater Manila area with its roughly 15 million inhabitants this time.

From Kota Kinabalu, the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah in northeastern Borneo, I flew over 1,000 kilometers east across the Celebes Sea on May 19, 2025. Davao, with almost two million inhabitants, is the third largest city in the Philippines and the most important on Mindanao, the second largest island in the Philippines.

Mindanao covers an area of approximately 94,600 square kilometers, making it almost twice the size of Switzerland and significantly larger than the German state of Bavaria. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) advises against travel to Mindanao, citing ongoing clashes between the army and armed groups. Furthermore, there is a risk of attacks, robberies, and kidnappings.

The third largest city in the Philippines

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (EDA) makes an explicit exception for Davao. Why should this particular metropolis be safer than its surrounding area? Searching for answers, I wander through the city for days. On Sunday, I visit the Cathedral of St. Peter, a brutalist concrete building from the 1960s. The Mass is not a solemn affair like it is back home. Worshippers come and go. There is chatter, laughter, and singing. Old women slide on their knees toward the altar. Joyful families present their newly baptized babies for photos and selfies.

The Philippines were ruled by Spain from 1565 to 1898 and underwent intensive missionary work. About four out of five Filipinos are Catholic. "Unlike in your country, there is still a widespread, genuine popular piety here," says a priest I speak to in front of the cathedral. He dismisses my suggestion that things are less civilized in the Philippines than, for example, in Buddhist Thailand.

Cathedral next to hourly hotels

On San Pedro Street, the main street in the city center where the cathedral stands, the city council (the legislative branch) also meets, and the old city hall is located here as well. Three things strike me. First, the archaic means of transport: As everywhere in the Philippines, jeepneys, uncomfortable minibuses reminiscent of World War II jeeps from the USA, are common here; bicycle taxis, called redi-cabs, operate using the muscle power of their riders; most of these have been replaced by motorcycles with a rudimentary attached cabin for two to four passengers, called "tricycles."

Secondly, hourly hotels advertise themselves, air-conditioned, with free Wi-Fi, three hours for 168 pesos, or the equivalent of two and a half euros. And thirdly, one "pawn shop" follows the next, shops where you can pawn belongings for a bit of cash. I enter one of them: cheap watches, jewelry, old cell phones and laptops, even clothes, pans, and dishes that their previous owners couldn't redeem are for sale.

Davao appears neglected in places, yet possesses a morbid charm. The New Davao Theatre, an abandoned movie theater on CM Recto Street, burned down at the end of May 2024, along with neighboring buildings such as the also-abandoned Davao Hotel. However, the burnt-out ruins remain untouched even after more than a year. Davao City is not considered a poor city by national standards. Yet, at night, I stumble across people sleeping on the sidewalks in dimly lit side streets of the city center.

In the midst of the darkness, a dazzling oasis: men are playing an improvised card game at a table illuminated by gas lamps. They shout, gesticulate, and barely acknowledge me. A modern, brightly lit café stands out from the impoverished rows of houses in the nighttime neighborhood. The owner, Margie, is in her early forties; her 18-year-old niece, Kimberley, helps her. Since English is taught in primary school in the Philippines, conversations here are much easier than in many other Southeast Asian countries.

Mayor with an iron fist

Margie serves a perfect espresso, and we discuss how a tourist can stroll unmolested through the impoverished neighborhoods of a major city like Davao in the middle of the night. Margie responds with a name: Rody Duderte. In 1972, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos declared a state of emergency and ruled dictatorially. There was a communist uprising on Mindanao; anti-communist vigilante groups tried to suppress it. And Islamist and ethnic rebel groups also wreaked havoc in the heart of Davao. "There were deaths every day," says Margie.

In 1988, a certain Rodrigo Duterte, a state prosecutor and the son of a former governor, was elected mayor. His message to criminals and gangs was simple: get lost, or I'll kill you. "Rody made Davao a safe city," says Margie. "That's why we love him." But didn't he have countless people killed and send out death squads? Margie gets carried away: "No innocent people were murdered, only bandits, terrorists, and drug dealers."

Duterte ruled Davao from 1988 to 1998, from 2001 to 2010, and from 2013 to 2016, when he was elected President of the Philippines. His successor in 2010 and 2016 was his daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio , who has been Vice President of the country since 2022. The current President is Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the son of the former dictator of the same name.

Extradition to The Hague

President Marcos and Vice President Duterte are locked in a bitter feud, culminating in the impeachment proceedings now underway against Sara Duterte. It was Marcos who ensured Rodrigo Duterte's arrest on March 11, 2025, and his extradition to the International Criminal Court in The Hague. He is currently imprisoned in the Netherlands, facing trial for crimes against humanity. Human rights groups estimate that his war on drugs and crime has claimed up to 30,000 lives.

In Davao, his family's stronghold, this only solidified his reputation. While the former president, 79 years old, was already imprisoned in the Netherlands, he was re-elected mayor of Davao City on May 12, 2025 – with an overwhelming 89 percent of the vote – and his youngest son, Sebastian (37), was simultaneously elected deputy mayor. The elections are long over, but the posters for Rody and Baste are still up.

A service for Duterte is held every evening on a stage in front of the town hall. "Duterte is our messiah," a retired civil servant tells me. "He listened to us. He understood us. He took our problems seriously. He helped us." But whether the old man will ever return from the Netherlands is uncertain.

Manila is not a city that reveals itself easily. At first glance, it can be overwhelming—the traffic, the noise, the sheer energy of millions of people moving at once. But once you settle into its rhythm, you start to see the beauty hidden beneath the chaos. I spent ten days in this vibrant, unpredictable city, experiencing everything from its rich history and bustling street markets to its breathtaking beaches and quieter, more reflective moments.

When I first arrived, the heat hit me immediately. Manila is warm in every sense—humid, bustling, full of life. The streets were alive with the sounds of honking jeepneys, street vendors calling out, and the hum of conversations in Tagalog and English. My first stop was Intramuros, the historic walled city built during Spanish rule. Walking through its cobbled streets felt like stepping into another time. Old churches, weathered stone walls, and colonial-style buildings stood in stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers rising in the distance. Fort Santiago, one of the most famous sites, had a solemn yet powerful energy—it was here that José Rizal, the country’s national hero, spent his final days before his execution.

From history, I dove straight into the present by heading to Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown. The streets were lined with food stalls and tiny restaurants serving everything from freshly made dumplings to steaming bowls of noodles. I tried pancit, lumpia, and some of the best siopao (steamed buns) I’ve ever had. Manila is a city that loves food, and I was ready to dive in.

The next couple of days took me through the strong contrasts that define Manila. I visited one of the city’s slums, an experience that left a deep impression on me. The poverty was undeniable—families living in small makeshift homes, children playing barefoot in narrow alleys, and the constant struggle for survival visible in everyday life. And yet, despite the hardships, there was something else: a sense of resilience, of community, of people making the best out of what they had. It was humbling to see their warmth and generosity, even in such difficult conditions.

Later that evening, I found myself in Makati, Manila’s financial district, where luxury malls, high-end restaurants, and towering skyscrapers painted a completely different picture. It felt almost surreal to go from one extreme to another within the same day. From a rooftop bar, I watched the city lights stretch endlessly into the horizon, a reminder of just how vast and diverse Manila truly is.

After days of exploring the city, I needed a break from the chaos. Manila is intense, and I was craving some peace. So I packed my bags and headed for one of the nearby beaches. The moment I stepped onto the soft, white sand, it felt like I had entered another world. The turquoise water was warm and inviting, and the sound of the waves replaced the endless honking of the city.

But the most magical part of the beach? The turtles.

I had heard that this area was known for its sea turtles, but seeing them in person was an experience I’ll never forget. As I waded into the clear water, I spotted a few small ones gliding effortlessly beneath the surface. They were mesmerizing—so calm, so graceful. But the real highlight came later in the evening when I witnessed baby turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean for the first time. Watching these tiny creatures struggle yet push forward with determination was one of the most heartwarming and humbling things I’ve ever seen.

The beach was a perfect escape. I spent the next few days simply enjoying the moment—floating in the warm water, walking along the shore as the sun dipped into the sea, and soaking in the beauty of nature. It was hard to believe that just a few hours away, Manila was still buzzing with life.

When I returned to the city, I was ready to dive back into its energy. I spent an afternoon exploring the National Museum, where Filipino art and history came alive through breathtaking paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Later, I ventured into Quiapo Market, one of the most chaotic yet fascinating places I had ever seen. Vendors sold everything from fresh produce and handmade crafts to religious statues and herbal medicines. The air was filled with the scent of grilled street food, and I couldn’t resist trying balut, the famous fertilized duck egg. It was… an experience. Not my favorite, but I was glad I tried it!

As my trip came to an end, I wanted to take in one final view of Manila. I took a ferry ride on Manila Bay, watching as the sun painted the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink. The city skyline reflected in the water, creating a picture-perfect ending to my journey.

On my last day, I did what any traveler should do before leaving the Philippines—I ate as much local food as possible. A breakfast of tapsilog (garlic rice, fried egg, and beef tapa), a lunch of lechon (crispy roasted pork), and to finish it off, a big bowl of halo-halo, a colorful mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, coconut, and ice cream.

As I boarded my flight, I couldn’t help but reflect on my time in Manila. This city is not easy—it’s chaotic, unpredictable, and at times exhausting. But it’s also rich in history, full of warmth, and deeply unforgettable. Manila doesn’t try to be perfect. It simply is what it is—a city that embraces its contrasts, its flaws, and its beauty all at once.

And that’s what makes it special. I‘m looking forward to going back some day…

To put it bluntly: no! At least in Makati City and Pasay City and the shopping malls, it is neither dangerous nor extremely dirty or poor. Rather modern with many young people who all speak good English. Nevertheless, one must not underestimate the fact that Manila is one of the poorest megacities in the world. 27 million people live here, of which around 7 million live in the inner core of the original city. The area is about half the size of downtown Zurich. Around 6 to 8 million people live in the slums, on mountains of garbage and in the worst possible conditions. Attempts are being made to help through various projects and the burning mountain of garbage was removed and partly recycled in 2021.

We didn't see much of Manila. The Mall of Asia is huge, with all the brands and European shops you know. With lots of great restaurants, a huge food court and an entertainment area. There's even an ice skating rink here. Outside there's a huge fun and fairground with a Ferris wheel 🎡 and thousands of young people enjoyed the sunset with us.

There is also a mall that is supposed to be like Venice, even with a Canal de Grande and boat trips, but we didn't manage that in the short time we were there. Of course there are skyscrapers, but Manila doesn't have a real skyline or landmark. The national hero of the Philippines Jose Rizal has a statue in the center of the city, similar to the Mactan Shrine in Cebu. He was the first revolutionary against Spanish colonial rule.

So enough being a smart-ass… we’re heading to Krabi in Thailand, our last stop, before we spend three more days in Bangkok.

The highlight of Boracay is the "White Beach". 12 km long. The beach is truly breathtakingly beautiful 🤩 and the water is crystal clear, we have never seen anything like it. On one side the water, then the 🏖️ beach, lined with palm trees, and then there are hotels, restaurants etc., of course without cars and scooters. The sunset 🌅 there is indescribably beautiful 🤩. This part is divided into three stations, Station 1 with luxury hotels, Station 2 with normal hotels and many restaurants and great seafood buffets and Station 3 with simpler restaurants and hostels. At Station 1 there is also the DMall, a wonderfully laid out shopping mile with souvenirs, typical Filipino food and live music.

In the north of the island is Puka Beach and next to the residents' corrugated iron huts, a completely new area is being built by Megaworld with the Savoy and Belmont hotels, exactly like in Cebu Mactan. Totally crazy and only for the super rich. "Wolfgangs" from New York opened there a month ago. A steak without side dishes costs 5600 pesos. For comparison, a lobster 🦞 at the seafood market only cost 2000 PHP, normal food 500 PHP and a seafood buffet 1100 PHP.

On the opposite side, just 300 m from our hotel, is the Surf 🏄‍♂️ beach. Also beautiful and a bit more original.

We spent 5 wonderful and unique vacation days here😎🏖️🐠

From Puerto Princesa we flew with Cebu Pacific to the second largest city in the Philippines, Cebu City, on the island of Cebu. From there, the plan was to explore the island with Oslob and the whale 🐋 sharks 🦈 and the beautiful white beaches and the neighboring island, Bohol. The plan almost literally fell through... Apparently a lunchtime snack in the hotel (for once we didn't eat on the street, but in the 4-star hotel) didn't agree with us at all and we were completely "out of action" for almost 2 days. So the only time left was to explore the city of Cebu.

The Philippines is Catholic. The first missionaries came from Spain and built the first church in the Philippines in 1565, the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino. The first European visitor was Magelan, who is said to have been the first to erect a cross, and a small monument was erected in his honor, the Magelan Cross. That's it for sights...

The people in Cebu live in very simple, if not poor, conditions, which we had not expected to be so pronounced. I now know where the term corrugated iron hut comes from. The national dish is Lechon, a grilled suckling pig, usually in a roll filled with herbs and lemongrass. Otherwise there is rice with chicken adobo or tapsilog. The next day we went on to Boracay

On day 4 we continue to Puerto Princesa, 6 hours with 12 people in a tiny van. The luggage goes on the roof and is secured with a small cord. Trust is once again the most important thing here! The roads are horrible, switchbacks and potholes... yay! We actually want to go to the Underground River, but we don't have enough time. So after a fun evening at the harbor, chatting to two emigrants from Canada and New Zealand (both 63 years old) and eating delicious seafood, we continue to Cebu the next morning.

In the evening we had delicious ribs and fried fish and there was live music in the Bam Bam Bar and the wreck and deep divers sang and danced.

Just two wonderful days, we continue to El Nido

Hallihallo or how not to say in the Philippines: Aloha.

Laura has Easter holidays. Normally we would go to our families, look for Easter nests, eat together and spend time together. But this year everything is a little different.

The flights were booked on Tuesday and at 1:30 a.m. on Thursday night we went first to Manila and from there to Cebu City. We landed around 11 a.m. and after a 3-hour bus ride we finally arrived in Moalboal.

Moalboal

The bus driver asked everyone on board which hostels, hotels or resorts they wanted to be dropped off at. We rented a hostel in advance that gave us a taste of camping. Our tent was a bamboo hut with two windows, a raised bed and a small terrace with two chairs. There were shared showers and toilets and a reception that also served as a moped rental, kitchen and guide service. It was great.

We wanted to stay here for 3 days and then continue towards the south of the island or even to another one. But as is often the case when you're on holiday, Laura got sick. I don't know if it was the air conditioning on the plane or the stress from work, but she was sick in the bamboo hut for about two or three days.

We then decided not to do any major island tours and to give up backpacking in the Philippines. We spent our time in Moalboal and the surrounding area. We booked other accommodation, went on a truly breathtaking canyon tour where you could hike, swim and jump from rocks, snorkeled and swam with turtles and schools of sardines, were on the highest mountain on the island for sunrise and ate pizza and burgers for the first time.

We went to lots of different beaches. Some were rocky or stony, but a couple had loooong white sand, crystal clear water and were exactly how you would imagine the beaches in the Philippines to be. Very nice.

Maybe interesting side facts:

• Take sunscreen with you, otherwise you will get the sunburn of death in the Philippines
• The Catholic Church is very widespread here, at Easter people have been nailed to the cross
• If you sleep in a bamboo hut, ask beforehand if something like a mosquito net can be put up under the half-open roof... Otherwise you could have hand-sized spiders in your bedroom
• If you wake up in the night and something flies onto your arm, it's usually not a butterfly. As Laura discovered, cockroaches can fly.
• And finally, people here LOVE One Direction, Taylor Swift and Katy Perry so much that they play the same music every day

This time it took some time before we could leave the ship. Our group of 40 people left the port area and got into four minibuses that were waiting.

They drove us to "Zoobic", a special kind of animal park. The first adventure there was called "Tiger Safari". We drove into a large open-air area in jeepneys with bars all around. There a beautiful tiger came expectantly to be fed through the bars in front of us. He then jumped onto the roof of our car and drove towards the exit. Before we could drive out, the tiger had to get onto another car roof, which he did after a long period of persuasion.

The next stop was “Tiger & Lion Close Encounter”, where I was allowed to feed a tigress through the enclosure.

Afterwards I was able to lovingly spend time with two horses, which later earned me a reprimand from our zoo guide.

In “Croco Loco” we were able to fish for crocodiles using chicken drumsticks.

Afterwards we drove to our second destination: "Las Casas Filipinas de Asucar", a beautiful resort where we had lunch and took boats through the canals modeled on Venice.

We then returned to our ship just in time.

In the evening, singer Monique Lualhati entertained us with her band "Goddess".

The road from Busuanga Francisco Breyes airport to Coron leads down the mountain via a winding road. Where exactly is my accommodation? Good question; at least I know its name: Enna's Place.

I was the first to get out of the van, a blue tricycle with the sign Enna's Place was waiting for me in the middle of the road, from there it was only a good 200m down the dirt road.

The accommodation reminded me a lot of Archery's in Moalboal - a little out of the way but decorated with great attention to detail. I was welcomed with a cold juice (somehow it's good for the throat even if it's actually bad)

On the first day, I rented a scooter for 5 hours and drove a bit through the area to Cabo Beach. The landscape here is breathtakingly beautiful. When I checked in, I was given a program booklet, as this is my last week in the Philippines I'm going on a tourist tour: the Cebu Ultimate Tour.

On my penultimate day in Coron, I rented a scooter again to explore the area a bit. I had actually planned to climb the 712 (don't hold me to that) steps up to the Coron sign - but somehow I couldn't find the way and ended up in Borac Bay; a really pretty spot. No beach, but steep coastline, I looked for a shady spot to hide from the midday sun and enjoyed the absolute peace and quiet for a while. On the way back there was a downpour - as I've mentioned before, it's kind of half as bad here; you're wet but it's still super warm and when it stops raining you're dry again; or as good as - with the high humidity here you're never really dry^^ Still, I wanted to change, so I went to Enna's to change and wait until the rain was over (sounds like I had planned to drive past my accommodation; in fact, once again I didn't really know where I was - but a street sign said Coron so I couldn't be too wrong) When it stopped raining I set off for Coron again. In a Korean restaurant (Miso) I ate the best kimchi of my life (so far) - wohaaaa it was super delicious...

I wanted something to remind me of this vacation, a souvenir for myself. But I'm not really the kitschy type who has bits and bobs everywhere... Something that reminds me of a very beautiful and insightful vacation. I got a tattoo :)

I did it! I climbed 721 steps up Mount Tapyas - omg that was exhausting. But let's start my last day in Coro from the beginning :)

Back in Coron I had a little craving. I decided to go to Om's Thai. I had a mango salad and fried tofu: divine. Too bad it was my last day in Coron, the menu had a lot more to offer - I can only recommend, if you are ever in Coron, go to Om's Thai - 5 out of 5 noms^^

After a short stopover at Enna's, I thought I'd try again to get to this mountain with the lettering (after failing miserably the day before and ending up in the middle of nowhere again, you remember?). I actually found the way - albeit a little differently, but never mind. To get to the top you have to climb 721 steps - a bit of a challenge in the humidity - but I managed it, in one go and without a break - whoop whoop. It was really worth it, when you get to the top you are rewarded with an incomparable view over Coron. There was even live music. The poor guy had to run up with all his instruments. As a personal reward, I fancied an ice cream... but where... well, there was a McDonald's. I've rarely seen such a crazy menu in a McDonald's: McSpaghetti (burger and spaghetti on the menu); fried chicken with rice. Crazy. Fortunately, the classic McSundae was available :)

So that was it, my last day in Coron - before heading on to Manila; Coron is an incredibly beautiful and diverse island. I will miss it...

First of all, the good part :) The location of the room was great, right in the middle of the Cebu IT Park, so there was a lot going on: restaurants, bars, malls and, luckily for me, a Street Foof Festival - I went straight there after enjoying the ac (I´ll regret it later) in the mall.  The Mall was also big - 5 floors, even with a think space o.O There were 3-4 restaurants or similar on each level, the Filipinos are a bit crazy...

Malapascua itself is a beautiful island with wonderful beaches. It's a bit of a shame that I only planned 3 days here.

I was able to watch the sunrise and sunset from my hotel. Fantastic.

There are countless dive centers, a central marketplace with typical Filipino street food and a simply incredible view.

I love Malapasua

The Blue Corals Garden was hit pretty hard by Typhoon Odett in December 2021, like so many other places. There were pictures of the extent of the disaster in the hotel (I could also see the same at Archery's)

On the bus ride from Maya Port back to Cebu, I paid more attention to the coastal road and you can actually still see the traces of the typhoon very clearly.

Hello again!

uiuiui, it was cold on the plane - brrrrrr.

When I arrived at Cebu airport, my driver was already waiting for me (yes, no bus, van, tricycle or anything like that this time - how decadent^^)

The drive from the airport to my destination, Moalboal, took a little over 3 hours. Despite the late arrival time, the island's capital was incredibly busy, it only took us an hour to get out of the city; a huge city with so many contrasts - on one side of the street modern shopping centers on the opposite side tin huts in front of which families prepare their (presumably) dinner on a more or less makeshift grill.

Colorful, shrill, loud, sometimes dirty, poor, rich....

But the cab ride was also a special challenge, because Filipinos love Christmas and are simply too fond of this time of year. Of course, that doesn't stop on December 27th. They love music just as much as Christmas - the kind of kitschy hits where the same bassline always plays in the background in four or two-four time and only the lyrics vary.

And I could hear exactly this music during the journey - the driver sang along passionately in places: Jingle Bells, Dreaming of a White Christmas, Silent Nigt - the whole thing in a discofox-hit-song-mix in Filipino version in a continuous loop until my ears bled...for 3 hours...

Moalboal is located on the west coast of the island of Cebu and is a classic tourist destination. My accommodation, the Archery-Aisa Nipa Huts, is located about 2 km outside of town in a quiet area surrounded by a forest of bamboo and all kinds of tropical trees and plants.

My hut is a small one with a mattress, a fan and a mosquito net - a wooden tent, so to speak :) It's more like a campsite than a resort - perfect. The very next morning I went to the center of Moalboal to see the infamous Sardine Run. No sooner said than done I went Snorkeling - it was magical how it glistens when this incredibly large school of fish moves beneath you.

Even a turtle didn't want to miss out on the spectacle and popped in for a quick look.

It all sounds super romantic, but it was super crowded!

Unfortunately, I had forgotten my phone protection and couldn't take any snorkeling photos :( I wanted to go back another day; but jellyfish probably like sardines too, the sightings and the number of stings rose sharply - well, the photo isn't that important.

Back at the campsite I rented a scooter (not that I've ever ridden a scooter before, but hey, there's always a first time) and signed up for a canyoning trip for the next day, sounded super exciting (honestly, that day almost deserved its own entry!) It was MEGA!

I went for a little scooter ride around the area and found Kawasan Falls, where I went for a swim :) A beautiful place, the rocks, the plants, the turquoise water ...

Canyoneering

I was picked up at around 8am and driven to a hostel in Moalboal that offers these trips.

We were a fun and colorful group, English, Norwegians, Americans, Dutch, Australians - solo traveler like me, but also couples and groups of friends.

The trip lasted the whole day and was great fun. We swung, hopped, climbed and jumped (from heights of 7 and 10 meters) into the Matutiano River down to the Kawasan Falls in a breathtaking setting. Of course I didn't miss out on the ziplining adventure; the second longest zip line in Asia - it was incredible :)

The guides were super fun and took incredible photos - they know what they are doing and how to motivate people.

Of course we also got talking during the trip, Loretta told me that she was bitten by a spider at the beginning of her stay in the Philippines - thanks TMI... I like spiders so much anyway o.O

Lys is also traveling solo, lives in Australia since her studies but is originally from the Netherlands, was almost at the end of her vacation - but travels on the same day as me back from Moalboal to Cebu - how convenient, we can share a cab :)

With Lys and a few others (sry I can´t remember all the names) who were staying at the hostel, and also took part in the excursion, I spent the next two days here and there; in one of the clubs we also met a few of the guides from canoneering again. My billiard skills haven't improved over the years, I still can't do it, but at least everyone had a laugh :)

The same group then arranged to meet up on New Year's Eve.

On New Year's Eve I decided to take a trip to the mountains on my scooter. Osmena Peak was my destination. The path up the mountain via Serpenitne road was once again picturesque, and the view - a dream.

I drove around a bit and enjoyed the scenery. Looking at the clock, I made my way back to my cabin – that was the plan. High up on the mountain there was no cell service, no net or anything like that... so where exactly was I now?

Well, let's go... that way. My path took me through many small mountain villages where people were all busy preparing for the New Year. For me it was a bit strange because the chickens were slaughtered on the street for dinner; the streets were covered in blood... It was a bit weird, like in a bad horror movie, the feeling increased as the streets got higher and higher, but somehow none of them led down the mountain...

At least I found a gas station, which of course would have been the perfect scenario: the blonde woman runs out of gas gets lost in the mountains while the residents are in a bloodlust... 

Well, after just 2 hours of searching for a route, I managed to get back down from the mountain. Back to the hut, shower and then off to New Year’s Eve dinner – I’m hungry.

Before it started, however, I had to sing a karaoke song at the request of the Resorts Owner Judy: “99 Luftballons”, what else... and because it was so great, I was also "allowed" to sing “Er Gehört zu mir”, after the third German hit classics I finally was allowed to go (why German Schlager-hits, there is so much good music....)

A Lechon is a must for a typical Filipino New Year's Eve meal; actually nothing more than a suckling pig.

There is a large menu with all sorts of delicious things: rice, vegetables; Chicken; Spring rolls; Fruits and of course the pig. We started the new year – 2024 – with live music, karaoke and lots of good atmosphere! Oh yes, by the way: Happy New Year!!

The big supermarket in town sells all sorts of weird stuff, power whiting body lotion, bleaching body soap .... wth.

There are many Mc Donalds and KFC or KFC-like "restaurants" here. The Filipinos love fried chicken.

I actually made it to the ruins of Cagsawa. Quite impressive, considering the church was destroyed in a volcanic eruption in 1814. The volcano stands almost majestically in the background of the ruins and makes me realize once again how powerful nature can be.

However, it is not quite as idyllic as the pictures suggest. Of course there are lots of tourists here, which is understandable, but there is also just as much garbage lying around...

Unfortunately, I don't make it to the Mayon Volcano National Park, it's too far away, I would have needed another day.

But - on a hill in the city, where the church "Our Lady of the Gate Parish" stands and at the ruins of Cagsawa, you have a great view of the Mayon. 

I took a Jeepny back to the Airbnb and then it was off to the airport again, this time on a Tricycle.

Bicol airport is really cute, only 3 gates and really nothing going on. super pleasant.

 With a propeller plane to the next station: Cebu 

So here I am, in Donsol; at least for the first few days.

It wasn't quite as easy to get here from Legazpi airport as I thought.

There are about 100 Filipinos at the airport and everyone shouts something different, hard to understand what. Among all the confusion of voices, I managed to find one that called Legaspi City / Van Terminal. -That was my destination. From there it should be easy to get a van to Donsol, at least that's what research showed.

Arriving at the van terminal, there was again a confusion of voices, quite hectic at 7 o'clock in the morning. It's easy to find your way around here. There are boards with the names of the places to be visited, underneath which is a van that normally fits about 10 people. Under my sign, Donsol, there was no van yet. A young girl with lots of luggage, she was spending Christmas with her family, she told me. She also told me that she had been waiting an hour for the van to Donsol. It was another two hours before the van arrived and another half hour before it was full. Because a van only leaves when it is (over)full, otherwise the journey is not worthwhile.

While I was waiting, I met Estella, a sprightly 72-year-old who was staying overnight with her friend in Legaspi. She gave me some fruit, of course I've forgotten what they're called, let's call them "yellow lychee things",  the taste reminded me of them.

It was a short 15-minute walk from the van station to my accommodation. The sandwich on my back was starting to get heavy.

I found Villa Peralta Inn, my accommodation for the next few days. I received a very friendly welcome.

When I arrived in my room, I only had two wishes: shower and sleep. No sooner said than done, but I slept a little longer than planned. Nevermind.

After a short evening walk, I went to bed again, I have to get used to the new time. Early in the morning, shortly after 4, I woke up, something must have annoyed the neighbors' dog.

I found the dive center on my evening walk and went there first thing in the morning to sign up for snorkelling and a diving Trip.

Whale sharks have been spotted in the area - I'm very excited.

As the excursions don't take place until the next few days and I hadn't had breakfast yet, I went for a walk to the market in Donsol. It started raining cats and dogs.

Still, it's somehow different; the rain is warm and if you protect yourself from it under a banana leaf, you somehow don't mind that it's raining.

The market and the streets were or are like I know them from movies and documentaries, lots of small stores selling all sorts of things, food stalls everywhere; meat is offered unrefrigerated at 33° - crazy, but charming.

The people are friendly "Good Morning, Mamˋ - Merry Christmas"

I bought coffee and a few things in a supermarket. I was a bit surprised at the packaging of the detergent, it is sold in portions...

Opposite the supermarket there was finally an ATM, so shortly before Christmas everyone probably needed some cash, so I had to queue. You need definitely cash in the Philippines!

On the way back to my room, I couldn't resist the smell of boiled bananas and sweet potatoes - was served in a banana leaf :)

I'm beginning to understand why everyone wears crocks or flip-flops here, sneakers are just too warm and super impractical due to the warm and humid weather - I really need some in addition to my flip-flops.

Diving at last! And I actually saw 2 of the giants myself on an incredible diving trip... incredibly beautiful <3

Also on the trip were a German and an Australian couple as well as a Frenchman who has been traveling the world for 6 months. Unfortunately, the German couple left the dive center almost immediately after the trip, I wanted to ask them about the video with the whale shark - I was even on it...

I decided to leave Donsol earlier than planned to spend a day in Daraga.

My landlady, with whom I had dinner the previous evening, offered to drive me to Daraga the next day. Then I don't have to wait for a full van again ;)

 Day 1
 crazy two days; I actually left for the airport in Munich far too early - for whatever reason - but that was probably my luck.

When I arrived at the airport, I wanted to get rid of my backpack.

The foil station was found, the "sandwich" wrapped - off to the counter.

At the check-in counter:

I had actually already checked in online and only had to hand in my "sandwich". I was told at the counter that the plane was already an hour late due to the weather and that there could be a further delay before the evening flight. What a drama! I have a connecting flight in Istanbul and only two hours to change planes... so I was quickly rebooked onto the next flight - leaving in an hour.

Wonderful. When I arrived in Istanbul, I was overwhelmed by the size of the airport - it's crazy how big it is...

The email:

I receive the message that I have been rebooked from the connecting flight (because of which I took the earlier flight, to a later flight) +4h waiting time... Well, that's just the way it is... the actual flight is canceled. But I got a meal voucher and access to the business lounge :)

The call:

A few hours later, my cell phone rings - I wonder who's calling? It's an employee from Turkish Airlines. He explains that I've been rebooked on the later flight because the actual flight from Munich was so late that I wouldn't have been able to make the connection and I had somehow forgotten that I had taken an earlier flight and was already in Istanbul. So if I want, I can take the plane as planned. Of course I will do that!

This time I got the seat reservation for free - the seat I had actually booked.

However, when boarding I was taken to the side again, something with the luggage - but it's fine now. Ok, whatever..

Day 2

Arrival in Manila:

After a little over 11h flight I finally arrived in Manila. Out of the plane! It's already after 06:00 pm here.

Hmmm, why is my name on a piece of paper that a receptionist is holding up? Well, my backpack couldn't be reloaded and the plane doesn't arrive in Manila until 10 pm - how good that my onward flight doesn't leave until 4:25 am... So I just wait, I have time.

OMG - there it is, my sandwich on the baggage carousel! Whoop whoop!

I went by bus to Terminal 2 to catch the flight to Daraga - at 04:25am ^^

At least I got rid of my sandwich again.

I changed into some summer clothes, found a nice café outside and we were back in the here and now.

I'm a bit proud of myself for making it this far on my own and not running around screaming in frustration.... That wouldn't have helped.

Conclusion: I am deeply relaxed - what could possibly happen?

But the real highlight was planned for the next day, finally seeing the thresher sharks (Treshershark). Start scheduled for 4:45 a.m.
Things turned out differently. At five o'clock there was a mad knock on the door. Shit, missed it. Despite two alarm clocks. Jump out of bed and pick up your stuff within 5 minutes.
Sascha just ran around in circles like an angry chicken. I threw everything I could grab into a bag and off we went on foot through the night to the neighboring bay. And then the boat won't start. But we made it to the big diving boat on time without having to wait for other divers. Phew. Kick start.
The first dive site (Monad Shoal) was reached after about half an hour and the breefing caused a slight concern that we should not make ourselves a good source of food in the open water. For the tiger sharks. Uahhhhh....
So dive down to an underwater island. But nothing hit. It was more of a dive to wake up after all the stress.
At the second dive site (Kimud Shoal) then keep your fingers crossed.... and right when you submerge.... there you are. Two thresher sharks. First thought from me (Uli): Wow, they're big. And pretty. Very elegant and shiny silver. With this incredibly long tail fin. Thresher sharks accompany us for almost the entire dive. Fantastic. The diving site is also great, good visibility, great corals, lots of other fish. And divers. Pretty much underwater. After the break we go down again at the same place and have direct contact with sharks again. A second gigantic dive. And in the end a thresher shark accompanies me almost all the way home. Memory for life.

Oh, by the way, the alarm clock didn't go off because it's Saturday and we Döspaddel simply didn't take that into account and the alarm clock was set for Mon-Fri during the week. It can happen on vacation that you don't know what day of the week it is.
After a day of diving break (snorkeling with the baby sharks again, exploring the island a bit) we finally found the spot for grilled fish. Delicious. And later Mangodaiquiri on the beach, life is good.

Final summary: I'm really not allowed to play with jellyfish while diving, I had severe netting again. And unfortunately a typhoon is currently passing through the area, all diving boats have to stay in the harbor.

On the last day we did 2 dives and chilled out in the afternoon in moderate weather.

Tomorrow we're going to Moalbal on Cebu.