One Night in Manila, Philippines

Image credit: jackmalipan / 123RF Stock Photo

When you’re born in the land of the Long White Cloud – the place dubbed ‘middle-earth’ – and then raised in that other place they call ‘The Land Down Under’ — getting to another country usually involves (at the very least) a good few hours up in the air.

Let’s face it, flying within Australia can take up to five hours and involve jet lag!

So, the idea that I can be in a completely different country, new culture, new language (heck even new chopstick etiquette) within a couple of hours still manages to impress me!

Suffice to say, during my time here in Asia’s World City, I’ve managed quite a few short flights that have landed me, rather excitedly, in exotic, seemingly far-flung locations…all within the blink of an eye.

With this in mind, I took my latest trip to the Philippines with a grain of salt. It’s just up the road – been there done that. That grain of salt was in fact so teensy; I didn’t even check my e-ticket (properly). I’d been invited to host a corporate awards night as Master of Ceremonies (as I have done many times).

But it seems the close proximity of this foreign land had me held hostage to a touch of complacency. Admittedly – I was a little sidetracked with family in town. As any expat will know, much-loved visitors on your turf means any semblance of normality is totally lost – you happily immerse yourself in the vortex of sightseeing, shopping and eating out. Every day is like a holiday in your own city (until reality bites). Click here to read more on EXPAT FOCUS

Image credit: ragsac / 123RF Stock Photo

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Nicole Webb

Nicole is a journalist and writer (former News Reader with Sky News Australia) who, back in 2010, took a leap of faith and embarked on a journey to the city that never sleeps, Hong Kong! Fast forward four years, and Nicole, her hotelier husband and toddler stepped things up a notch and moved to Central China, where they lived in Xi'an for 2.5 years. Back in Sydney after a whirlwind adventure, Nicole continues her musings! Check out Mint Mocha Musings for plenty of intriguing, humorous and uplifting tales from her expat life in Asia so far. You can also find her on Twitter: @nicoledwebb. and Instagram at Mint Mocha Musings.