international adventures Manila’s night scene MANILA PHILIPPINES This capital city on the western side of Luzon island showcases skyscrapers mixed with historic Spanish colonial architecture. This is also evident in the country’s food, which is anything but boring. South China Sea PHILIPPINES Manila Sulu Sea FROM THE AIRPORT CBD 7km from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Travel time CBD is around 30 mins by car Taxi Approx PHP450 (S$13.12). Prepaid taxis are available inside the airport terminal and save you the hassle of haggling ON THE GO 1. Taxi You can fl ag one down at most malls. Always insist on using the meter. 2. Jeepney These lorries ply most major city roads and can take you anywhere along their route. 3. Train The Light Rail Transit takes an east-west route across the city, while the Metro Rail Transit goes north-south. 94 FEBRUARY/MARCH <strong>2011</strong> HEIDE ONG CABUCOS Businesswoman Local delicacy: If you want to go into Fear Factor mode, a defi nite must-try is our balut — a hard-boiled chicken or duck egg. Sounds easy? Bite into this then, because once you crack that shell open, you’ll see a nearly developed embryo and a solid yolk inside. Survival tips for tourists: Do not count your money in public. Be careful of your belongings so as not to invite unwanted attention. In public markets, it is okay to haggle. Prepare for the heat — wear light clothing, bring a bottle of water, an umbrella and extra shirts or clothes whenever you go out. Local recreational activities to watch: I can easily think of two: basketball and karaoke. Catch the PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) live three times a week at the Araneta Coliseum, or release your inner diva and storm the numerous KTV bars that are lining the metro. Most romantic spot: White Moon Bar over at Hotel H 2 0 is an alfresco bar by the bay. It’s a great place for lounging around while catching a glimpse of the sunset with a glass of wine to toast the night ahead. Must-buy gifts: Almost every mall off ers proudly Philippinemade, handcrafted products like shoes, bags and apparel. Insider’s tip: Filipinos are generally friendly, polite and approachable, so always wear a smile and you’ll surely get one in return. A good majority of them not only understand, but also speak coherent English. TAIPEI TAIWAN This capital city is noisy and busy. The centre of Taiwan’s commerce and entertainment, it’s great for those who love the buzz of an Asian city. The food here is a big draw in the land of pearl milk tea. Taipei TAIWAN East China Sea FROM THE AIRPORT Philippine Sea PACIFIC OCEAN CBD 40km from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Travel time Around 50 mins by car to the city centre Taxi Approx TW$1,100 (S$48.86) Buses Seven buses leave from the airport, with some making hotel stops. Costs TW$110-140 (S$4.89- 6.22) for an adult and TW$43-65 (S$1.91-2.89) for a child; takes 40 to 90 mins ON THE GO 1. Taipei Rapid Transit System The most effi cient way of getting around the city, and Greater Taipei. 2. Taxi Always carry the address of your destination written in Mandarin if you do not speak the language. The Taipei 101 is a splendid sight TODD ALPEROVITZ ESL teacher and photographer Best breakfast: Yonghe Dou Jiang serves an excellent traditional Taiwanese breakfast. If you never liked soy milk or Taiwanese crullers, chances are you just might after trying them in Taipei. Must-eats: Eat your way through Taipei’s largest night market — Shilin Night Market, where you can snack on oyster omelettes, stinky tofu, and fried chicken fi llets. Best place to hang out with the locals: Thousands of Taipei citizens seek daily spiritual guidance at the historic Longshan Temple. The temple absolutely radiates with energy. This is the place to go to experience a mix of Buddhism and Taiwanese folk religion. Favourite local festival: If you’re visiting during mid-June, be sure to watch the dragon boat races. This international competition commemorates the race to save poet Qu Yuan’s body from being eaten by fi sh after he drowned himself. Best idea for a family outing: The Taipei Zoo is a wonderful and inexpensive place to take the whole family to. Among its attractions, the zoo boasts an insectarium where you can surround yourself with butterfl ies, a pair of controversial pandas, and a nocturnal animal house. If you don’t like walking uphill, take the shuttle near the entrance to the top and then walk your way back down. For history: Take the MRT to Danshui to explore the area.
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