Transportation in Naga City is typical of much of the country. Don't know yet if it is the same in Manila, but here jeepneys and tricycles are the mode. We had our very own jeepney ride on a trip up to nearby hot springs at the base of a volcanic mountain, Mt. Isarog. I am hoping to load a picture of the jeepney so you can see the colorful ride we had. Today we took one of the regular jeepneys that run up and down the main streets, into the market. You simply flag them down and climb in the back. If you are sitting towards the back, you pass your fare along the passengers up to the driver, and he passes the change back. Lots of observers to make sure it gets where it's supposed to!
Along with the jeepneys are thousands of tricycles of varied sizes. It began as a bicycle with a sidecar. Now there are both bicycles and motorcycles, and the sidecar is fitted out to hold several passengers, and is covered. They are a bit battered looking, but very much in use.
Driving--now that's an interesting story too. It reminds me of China, where we did not drive and Argentina out in the country, where we did. There are no stop lights and while you are not playing chicken, there is definitely a technique to nudging your way into a stream of traffic running at 90 degrees to you in order to cross the street. Weaving in and out, around other vehicles and pedestrians, everyone seems to get where they want to go with not too much fuss. Honking the horn is just for a warning that you are coming. People don't honk in frustration here. Quite fun. Phil was laughing most of the time as we were driving, just watching the maneuvering.
We are eating very well (lots of rice, at every meal if you also eat a Filipino breakfast)but with a nice variety of other dishes to go with it. We're being treated very well and having a grand time.
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