LOW ENERGY IN THE PHILIPPINES

Traveling is a young man's game. It takes a lot of energy to make your way across a strange new country, and some countries take more energy than others to negotiate. Places like Cambodia, Ghana, and the Philippines come immediatly to mind. In places like these you need all your wits about you and boatloads of energy to convey confidence and calmness. Julie and I recently spent a long weekend in the Philippines, flying into Angeles and making our way to the less trod towns of La Union and Baguio. We over-reached for our limited time there, and the extensive traveling combined with too much drinking took a toll on us (not to mention our decision to travel back to China separately!). In poorer countries, showing fear or weakness can be dangerous. People with no options in life learn quickly to pick up on subtle queues from tourists that they might be uncomfortable. Thankfully, we had no incidents, and actually met many very nice people in the Philippines. But as my energy wained, it was clear that things could go bad quickly there. I wish I had taken more photos. The Philippines is a beautiful country full of color and character. But taking out a camera and engaging with strangers also takes a lot of energy to do well. Looks like this old man needs to start eating high fiber cereal and pulling his socks all the way up.