Transportation

The traffic situation in Manila is more than a little chaotic. Our guide referred to driving in the Philippines as "fill in the blanks" which we found a very good description. What is amazing though is that you don't see any dents on the cars.

If we were a bit negative in our first post about Manila we must admit that one positive thing are the so called "Jeepneys". These extended old jeeps painted in various graffiti  like color schemes make up part of the city's public transport system. Each of the 6'000 jeepneys in Manila is independently run but is registered and drives along a set route. You flag it down just like a taxi and then jump in through the door-less entrance at the back. You then try to find a place on one of the benches and hold on tight to the metal rod in the ceiling before the driver quickly starts filling in the blanks.

It is only of 20 cents per three kilometers so these jeepneys really provide an excellent way to explore Manila.

Another great way to get around Manila is to catch a ride in a "pedicar". These man powered tricycles can only be used for shorter distances but are convenient because you can get around faster than on foot.