Thrilla' in Manila!

After growing up with plenty of Filipino friends it felt really good to visit the Philippines. I was only able to visit the city of Manila so I did not feel completely immersed in the culture. Manila reminds me so much of America... or maybe that's just because we had a Krispy Kreme across the street! All of the people were very friendly and hospitable- everyone spoke in English in the city as well. The shopping was incredible ..... :)

Public buses in Manila

Shopping malls EVERYWHERE

ALWAYS happy to find a Starbucks :)

Year of the Snake

We celebrated two new years' for 2013.... Our usual January 1st and secondly our Tet new year in February. Tet is Chinese new year with the changing of the zodiac calendar. This is the year of the snake. To celebrate there are plenty of fireworks, parties, flower markets and best of vacation days!

Flower market in D1

Many people were dressed in traditional clothing to celebrate TET

On another note our friend Victor stopped by for a visit! Felt good to have a friend from San Francisco in Saigon!