The Philippines

While I was a bit unsettled about trading time in Indonesia for an unplanned trip to the Philippines, I am so glad I went! Seven of us traveled to the tiny island of Boracay together, where we relaxed on the beach and did a few dives. The Philippines are very different from the rest of Southeast Asia: 7,000+ islands, heavy Spanish and American influences, and Catholic. Manila reminded me of Lima, Peru. The people are extremely friendly and we had great fun riding around in Jeepneys -- old US Army Jeeps which have been converted into colorful public buses.

I've just arrived in Ubud, Bali (Indonesia) where I plan to spend 9 days on the beach, biking, doing a wreck dive, and climbing another volcano. I have mixed feelings about being here after the bombs last month (and in 2002), but so far all seems peaceful and normal. And at 10,000 Indonesian rupiah to the dollar, I am a millionaire (a mere $100 = 1,000,000 Rp)!