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New Bombay Indian Restaurant

7/12/2019

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Indian food today, New Bombay in Manila

So far on my short stay here in Manila I’ve eaten me through two different countries. Now it’s time for the third country India. It’s not that I don’t like Filipino food on the contrary I do, but soon enough I will travel out in the province where Filipino food will be the only option.
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, The menu © www.travelblogonline.com
New Bombay, the menu was thick like a bible
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, The interior © www.travelblogonline.com
Time was still relatively early so it was very quiet when I was here

The menu was like a bible

I am far from being a specialist on Indian food but it seems to me that’s nothing was missing in the menu. Mutton, chicken, fish and seafood in many varieties. There were lot’s of vegetarian dishes without any meat as well. So down below are just some samples of what was available.
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines The menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Paneer is fresh cheese which is a common ingredient in the Indian kitchen
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines The menu © www.travelblogonline.com
I tried the Chicken Cafrala
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, The menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Together with the Paneer dishes there were lot’s of options for the vegetarian to eat
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, The menu © www.travelblogonline.com
I got the mandatory Naan bread with garlic and cheese. Super delicious!


The food

​I ordered Chicken Cafrala, cubes of boneless chicken cooked in onion cashew gravy with coconut milk, garnished with grated cheese and cashew nuts with rice and Naan bread with garlic and cheese. The portion was not gigantic but together with the Naan bread it was totally enough for me and I consider myself as a big eater after all.
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, Naan bread with garlic and cheese © www.travelblogonline.com
Garlic and cheese Naan bread
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, Chicken Cafrala © www.travelblogonline.com
Chicken Cafrala
New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, The food © www.travelblogonline.com
As usual I forgot to order the rice which was not included. In Sweden where I come from the rice is always included so it’s easy to forget that when you are abroad.

New Bombay Indian Restaurant, Robinson Place Ermita, Manila, Philippines, The interior © www.travelblogonline.com

Conclusion

The food was delicious. The flavor was rich and spicy and together with the Naan bread it was super. Service was nice and swift. The prices are low to midrange. All together my lunch here was very pleasant and I will be back some day!
Rating:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
5 Food 
5 Service
4 Value
4 Atmosphere
New Bombay Indian Restaurant
Level 4, Midtown Wing, Robinsons Place,
Pedro Gil cor. Adriatico Streets,
Ermita, Manila. ​

Other links related to Manila >>>

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Teriyaki Boy Restaurant

5/12/2019

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Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place

Today I had no special plan for the lunch. I was just randomly wandering around in Robinson Place fixing stuff when I ended up at the Teriyaki Boy, Japanese styled restaurant. 
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, Entrance, www.travelblogonline.com
Teriyaki Boy is located in Robinson Place Ermita
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, Inside, www.travelblogonline.com
Potential customers are peering into the restaurant
Picture Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, Inside, www.travelblogonline.com


The menu

Ramen, Tofu Steak, California Roll, Gyoza, Sushi, Rice Bowl, Dynamite Roll are examples from the menu. Some of the dishes would be suitable for vegetarians also. What I miss here is a combo platter with both sushi and rolls in a nice combination. They actually have something called sushi platter where you choose two variants of the four rolls which are available. In my ears that’s a roll platter not a sushi platter. But I might be wrong... it’s still to be discovered. The menus down below are just a sample, they have more to chose among.
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, The menu, www.travelblogonline.com
I ordered the Maguro Sushi. You get two pieces.
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, The menu, www.travelblogonline.com
I tried the California Rolls and the Philly Cheese Steak Rolls
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, The menu, www.travelblogonline.com

The food

I ordered a Maguro Sushi (tuna), you got two pieces for PHP 95. I also ordered four pieces of California Rolls and four pieces of Philly Cheese Steak Rolls and Miso soup. The Miso soup had a good salty and rich taste. The Maguro Sushi were two generous slices of tuna but they were only ok. I noticed also the two slices had different colors... hm two different batches of tuna? One old and one fresh? Well I don’t know. The rolls were all very good. The steak rolls had an interesting meaty taste but hey (!) it was meat after all. The California rolls were with fresh mango which made them very tasty.
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, Maguro Sushi and Miso soup, www.travelblogonline.com
Teriyaki Boy Restaurant, Robinson Place Manila, Rolls, www.travelblogonline.com

Conclusion

The overall impression was good. Staff was nice and friendly. Price range low to medium also very reasonable. But the competition is fierce among the restaurants inside the mall so maybe next time if I would be craving for sushi I probably would try another place.
​Rating:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
3 Food 
4 Service
4 Value
3 Atmosphere
Teriyaki Boy
3rd Level Robinsons Place Manila
​Adriatico St. Malate
Manila, Metro Manila​
​

Other links related to Manila >>>

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Review of Soi Thai Restaurant in Ermita, Manila

4/12/2019

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Soi, eat thai, love thai

That’s their motto. Can they live up to that? Well we will see.
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, the entrance
This was after lunch time so it was quiet and peaceful here
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, the motto
Eat thai, love thai is their motto

Soi Thai Restaurant

Soi Thai Restaurant is located inside the The Robinson Place mall in Ermita. When I am there and craving for Thai food I usually go to Soi Thai. Last time I was here was one year ago and since then they had changed the furnishing. New tables and chairs. The big question, was the food also changed?
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
View out in the mall.
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, the bar
It was quiet here today

Menu

They offer a variety of typical Thai dishes. For some that might be good not to have to choose between too much but for me I wish they could have broaden their menu. You can find chicken, pork, fish, seafood and veggies cooked Thai style. They have vegetarian dishes without any kind of meat but they are probably not vegan. Notice that the pictures below just showing a sample of their menu.
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, the menu
As a starter I chose the Papaya Salad which is among my favorites
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, the menu
Prawns in Basil & Chilies for P 368 became my choice here
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, the menu
Chicken, pork and squid fresh from the grill


Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, Papaya Salad
My beloved Papaya salad. Spicy, sweet, salty and with crispy unripe papaya.
Soi Thai Restaurant, Robinsons Place, Ermita, Manila, Philippines, Prawns with basil
Prawns with basil. Even though the portion was not huge there were plenty of prawns.

Conclusion

Yes the furnishing was changed but the food still remaine untouched. Thanks for that! You always get a complimentary snack, like spicy peanuts as a small starter before you order which is nice. The food is tasty and well cooked and they offer complimentary service water with ice. That’s not bottled water but tastes the same and is perfectly safe to drink. The portions are not huge but still enough for me, so if you are not a really big eater it’s probably enough for you as well. You don’t have to wait long for your food and the staff is nice and friendly. The prices are low to medium range so it’s very reasonable. In my opinion you can’t go wrong here at the Soi Thai Restaurant.
Rating:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
4 Food
4 Service
4 Value
3 Atmosphere
Soi Thai Restaurant
Sta. Monica Atrium Robinsons Place
Adriatico Street, Ermita, Manila

Other links related to Manila >>>

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UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila

5/6/2018

6 Comments

 

A visit to ​UCC Vienna Cafe in Mall of Asia

Yes, good coffee smile, at least good coffee makes me smile! In my hunt for good coffee and cravings for something sweet I ended up at UCC Vienna Cafe in Mall of Asia. They offered a wide variety of dishes not only coffee and pastries. They had breakfasts in different styles, soups, salads, burgers, pastas, pastries etc and even Japanese dishes. But for me, I had cravings for something sweet and a cafe latte. 
UCC Vienna Cafe, interior, Mall of Asia, Manila © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
UCC Vienna Cafe has a nice relaxed ambience


UCC Vienna Cafe, cafe latte, Mall of Asia, Manila © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
My cafe latte at UCC

Cafe Latte and pancakes with ice cream

I ordered a Cafe Latte and pancakes with ice cream and whipped cream. The Cafe Latte had a quite strong coffee taste which is good for some but I myself prefer a little bit more mild taste. The pancakes was to my full satisfaction. At a previous visit I tried their Blue Berry Cheese Cake, good for two, which was among the best I ever tried. 
UCC Vienna Cafe, pancake, Mall of Asia, Manila © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
This was good!

Conclusion

Vienna Cafe in Mall of Asia has a ​nice ambience, offer good quality but they are a bit pricey compared to other coffee chains. 
Rating:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
5 Food 
4 Service
4 Value
4 Atmosphere
UCC Vienna Cafe
SM MALL OF ASIA, PASAY
​Manila, Philippines
Phone: (+63 2) 556-0175
Related links:
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila​
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial​
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery​
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park​
6 Comments

Flight 5J 628 from Dumaguete

3/4/2018

2 Comments

 

Good bye Dumaguete

Good bye Dumaguete for this time. But I will be back.
Picture
I will miss my girls


Flying Dumaguete-Manila

The flight from Dumaguete to Manila went smoothly. It departed ahead of time and consequently arrived ahead of time to Manila. The video shows start and landing and an awesome view over Dumaguete and the Sibulan airport.
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Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?

12/12/2017

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Review of Fiery Style Restaurant

Review of Fiery Style Restaurant, The Entrance, Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The staff was eager to promote the place

A new Eat in MOA

When I was wandering around in Mall of Asia, hungry and starving searching for something to eat, I suddenly discovered they were renovating a part of the North wing where Starbucks and TGI Fridays used to be located. Instead they have opened a new area which they call the New Eats, where you can find new exciting restaurants. The one which stood out most was the Fiery Style Restaurant. 


Review of Fiery Style Restaurant, The Bar, Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The bar
Review of Fiery Style Restaurant, The Interior, Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
It was quiet here today

Mexican fusion dining

It's a Mexican fusion dining restaurant that serves fiery Mexican cuisine and quick bites. Ideal for Mexican food lovers and others too of course. They offer a wide selection of Mexican dishes comprised of burritos, steaks, fajitas, and everything in between. Among all of their special dishes, the visitors are raving about their BBQ Pulled Pork Quesadilla, Southwest Platter and their Bottomless Cocktails Promo.
Review of Fiery Style Restaurant, The menu, Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
They offer a wide selection of Mexican dishes
Review of Fiery Style Restaurant, The menu, Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Many exciting dishes which I would like to try out

Bursting Burritos

Since I wanted something fiery I ordered the Bursting Burritos with grilled jalapeños and lime chicken. It was a freshly rolled floured tortilla loaded with rice, beans, peppers and sweetcorn in a Louisiana-style sauce, mixed leaves, cheese and sour cream. It may not look that much and maybe they could have added more chicken inside the burritos. Nevertheless the taste was good and the portion was enough for me so my conclusion was, that it was a good eat! By the way, nice with those colored nachos, I never seen that before. 
Review of Fiery Style Restaurant, Burritos, Mall of Asia, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Bursting Burritos with grilled jalapeños and lime chicken

Thumbs up!

I will definitely come back. There are many things on their menu I would like to try. The staff was very nice and service minded and the ambience also nice. A plus is that vegetarians also can find something to eat here all though the variety is limited though.  Anyway keep the good work rolling and thumbs up for the Fiery Style!
Rating: 1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
4 Food 
5 Service
4 Value
5 Atmosphere
The Fiery Style Restaurant
​North wing, Mall of asia, Pasay city
Manila, Philippines
Phone: + 63 920 896 5555
Related links:
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila​
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila​
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial​
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery​
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park​
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What to see in Manila city

4/10/2017

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Visit Intramuros in Manila

Intramuros, The entrance Puerta del Parian, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Puerta del Parian, one of the gates to Intramuros

Intramuros, the original Manila

In 1571 to the end of Spanish rule in 1898, Intramuros was Manila. It's also known as the Ciudad Murada (Walled City) because of its most famous feature: a nearly three-mile-long circuit of massive stone walls and fortifications that almost completely surrounds the entire district. 
Intramuros, Intramuros Golf Course, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The 18-hole, par-66 Club Intramuros Golf Course

​​Intramuros Golf Course

Just outside the walls of Intramuros in a uniquely urban environment, on what used to be the moat surrounding the city, you can play golf at the 18-hole, par-66 Club Intramuros Golf Course. The club was established already in 1907. Caddies cost P300. ​Almost every hole includes either water hazards, out-of-bounds, or both. The golf course can be played in just over two hours.


Intramuros, The defense wall with canons, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
On top of the old wall fortified with guns
Intramuros, Photographing tourists, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Ancient walls vs modern houses

​The wall of Intramuros

History and mystery are built into the two and three-quarter miles (around 4,4 km) of walls that surround the old capital of the Philippines. The first wall, built in 1570 was made of logs. Today the construction bears evidences of many builders and widely differing plans of defence.

Getting around Intramuros

Once inside the Intramuros you will not get lost, coz you are surrounded by the walls. A nice, old-fashioned way to get around the area is by calesa. These horse-drawn carriages can usually be found waiting for passengers near Fort Santiago. Since Intramuros is a limited and relatively small area, walking from one attraction to another is also a popular way to get around. For me walking was the perfect alternative, then I could discover all the attractions in my own pace.
Intramuros, Calesa horse-drawn carriage, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Calesa, a horse-drawn carriage
Intramuros, Fontain, Plaza Moriones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The beautiful fountain in the Plaza Moriones
Intramuros, Girl talking to a statue 2, Plaza Morione, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
This girl is trying to ease up her quiet friend

​Pain and sacrifices

When wandering around in this area and reading about all those important historical events which took place here you get a feeling of humbleness. There have been so much pain and sacrifices inside and around these walls of Intramuros. For example, Jose Rizal the national freedom hero of the Philippines was imprisoned here. He was later executed in Bagumbayan (now known as Rizal Park) just outside the walls of Intramuros on December 30, 1896. Or in 1945, during the fierce Battle of Manila between American, Filipino and Japanese forces, where so many soldiers paid the ultimate price and Intramuros was almost completely destroyed.
Intramuros, Fort Santiago Photo shoot, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The main gate of Fort Santiago
Intramuros, Fort Santiago Sign, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Fort Santiago was first built by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi
Intramuros, Photo Shoot, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The model in question obviously suffers from the heat this day

​Fort Santiago and the Rizal Shrine

Fort Santiago, the former military headquarters of the Spanish colonial government. Although the fort sustained very heavy damage during the 1945 Battle of Manila, several key portions of the compound were subsequently restored. It's now considered a major landmark and one of Manila's most popular tourist attractions, partly because José Rizal - the national hero of the Philippines - was imprisoned here prior to his execution on 30 Dec 1896. The Rizal Shrine, a small museum dedicated to his life and work, is housed in a restored section of one of the fort's former barracks. 
Intramuros, Rizal Shrine, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Rizal Shrine, José Rizal was imprisoned here
Intramuros, Plaza De Armas, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The beautiful Plaza De Armas
Intramuros, Cat, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
I get a suspicious glance from this cat
Intramuros, Pasig River, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Pasig River marks the border in the north of Intramuros
Intramuros, Dungeons, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Intramuros, Cross, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
In memory of those 600 hundreds who died in the dungeons the very last days of WWII
Picture

​The Dungeons

During World War II, Fort Santiago was captured by the Japanese Imperial Army. They used the dungeons as prison cells for captured Filipino and American soldiers. Around 600 bodies were found inside these dungeons and they probably died of starvation and suffocation on the very last days of the Battle of Manila.

​Restoration

At the end of World War II, virtually all of the structures in Intramuros were destroyed, with only the damaged Church of San Agustin still standing. Since 1979, the Intramuros Administration has been slowly restoring the walls, the sub-features of the fortification, and the city within. The remaining five original gates have been restored or rebuilt.
Intramuros, Girl talking to a statue, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog

How to get to Intramuros

Nearest train station: LRT1-Central Terminal
Or my personal recommendation, get off at United Nations Avenue and then take a 10 minutes nice walk. You will pass the Rizal Park and among others the National Museum of Fine Arts, which both are well worth visits.
Related links:
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila​
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila​
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial​
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery​
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park​
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Manila American Cemetery & Memorial

23/9/2017

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Visit the American Cemetery in Taguig City

Manila American Cemetery, Terrace, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The Tablets of Missing, with 36,286 names of soldiers missing in action
Manila American Cemetery, View over headstones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Manila American Cemetery, View over headstones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
There are 3660 headstones here
Manila American Cemetery, View over headstones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog

​The American cemetery is beautifully located

The cemetery is beautifully located with impressive views over the lowlands to Laguna de Bay and towards the distant mountains. The area is so quiet and you can wander around and contemplate over the soldiers who lost their lives in the World War II. When you see all the headstones and the names it really calls for reflection over the madness of war.


​Overview

Manila American Cemetery, Headstones 2, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines occupies 152 acres on a prominent plateau, visible at a distance from the east, south and west. It contains the largest number of graves of the US military dead of World War II, a total of 17,191, most of whom lost their lives in operations in New Guinea and the Philippines. Among them are 570 Philippine Nationals who were serving alongside with the US Forces.

​​The chapel

The chapel, a white masonry building enriched with sculpture and mosaic, stands near the center of the cemetery. In front of it on a wide terrace are two large hemicycles. Twenty-five mosaic maps recall the achievements of the American armed forces in the Pacific, China, India and Burma. On rectangular Trani limestone piers within the hemicycles, are inscribed the Tablets of the Missing containing 36,286 names.
Manila American Cemetery, Terrace, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
​The chapel
Manila American Cemetery, The Entrance, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
View over the entrance head north
Manila American Cemetery, Headstones and a big tree, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The remains of about 61 percent have been returned to the US at the request of the next of kin
Manila American Cemetery, Headstones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog

The American cemetery is organized and minimalistic

Compared to the Manila Chinese Cemetery which was like a maze of different styles and colors this cemetery is strictly organized and minimalistic with the headstones in perfect order. They are aligned in 11 plots forming a generally circular pattern, set among masses of a wide variety of tropical trees and shrubbery.
Manila American Cemetery, I am viewing all the headstones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
When you are overlooking 3660 headstones it really calls for reflection over the madness of war...
Manila American Cemetery, Me and the walls with the missing names, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Behind me, it's one of these two massive hemicycles with the Tablets of Missing
Manila American Cemetery, The wall with the names of missing soldiers, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Among these 36,286 names, there were two seamen with the name Henry Lord, same family name as me. And let's not forget the 3762 Philippine Nationals whose remains were never recovered are also inscribed on the Walls of the Missing.
Manila American Cemetery, Workers maintaining the cemetery, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The maintenance of the cemetery is meticulous
Manila American Cemetery, Headstones, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
In the background you see a residential complex at McKinley Pkwy towards Makati
Related links:
Visit Intramuros in Manila​
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery​
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park​
Manila American Cemetery
McKinley Road, Fort Bonifacio, 
1634 Taguig City, Philippines
Phone: 011-632-844-0212
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What to do in Manila?

20/9/2017

0 Comments

 

Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery! 

​The Millionaire's Row

Chinese Cemetery, The entrance, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The south entrance
The Manila Chinese Cemetery, popularly known as “Millionaire's Row” and ”The Beverly Hills of the dead”. The Manila Chinese Cemetery was built in the late 19:th century and was designated as the resting place for the Chinese citizens who were denied burial in Catholic cemeteries during the Spanish colonial period. ​A plot in the Manila Chinese Cemetery can easily cost up to 50 million PHP for a 25 year lease, after which another leasing fee must be paid or the body will have to be moved to another place.


​I was overwhelmed!

When it comes to cemeteries I had never seen something like this before! In Sweden, a cemetery is basically a designated area for the dead, where you put up a headstone with some flowers or other plants to honor the dead. But here! The Manila Chinese Cemetery is like a community of spectacular mansion-like tombs that are equipped with everything from kitchens to air-conditioning and bedrooms to running water! The reason is so relatives can be near to their deceased at all times. They would often visit the dead in their homes during weekends, and offer food and light incense sticks.
Chinese Cemetery, Me posing 2, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Yeah that's me with an umbrella
Chinese Cemetery, Mansion 2, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Many of these tombs are as large as a regular house - some even bigger!
Chinese Cemetery, My Guide, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
I recommend to hire a guide when visiting the cemetery.

​Who needs a guide?

Normally I used to deny the services of a guide. Who needs a guide when you have a smartphone and Google? But sometimes however, I have to admit that hiring a guide can be really useful. The Manila Chinese Cemetery is roughly 5.4 hectare. So it's a big area and it's like a maze in there so in order to find the highlights you might need some help. I was lucky to meet a guide who was nice and knowledgable and told me many good ​anecdotes about the cemetery. He charged me 600 PHP for one-hour walking tour. As an option you can also hire a bicycle (per hour P100) to get around the area.
Chinese Cemetery, Street Picture 2, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
You might think you are visiting a residential suburb but these are actually mausoleums with tombs inside. That's not all, they are fully functional homes fitted with modern conveniences.
Chinese Cemetery, Street picture 3, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Not all buried here can afford grand houses. The cemetery has a poorer section with regular-sized tombs and mausoleums.
Chinese Cemetery, The Bible, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Notice the bible on top of the tomb.
Chinese Cemetery, Tomb Tortoise, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
A tomb in the form of a turtle shell.
Chinese Cemetery, Stainless Steel Tomb, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Here is everything made of stainless steel.

The creator of mami and siopa

Chinese Cemetery, Ma Mon Luk family, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Ma Mon Luk, the creator of mami and siopao!
Ma Mon Luk, was a Chinese immigrant best known in the Philippines for his eponymous restaurant and the creator of mami (a noodle soup) and siopao (a steamed bun based on the cha siu bao). Arriving penniless in Binondo, Manila, Ma decided to peddle his own version of chicken noodle soup. He would soon open his first restaurant with the name “Ma Mon Luk Mami King”. He would promote his restaurant by giving away free samples of siopao. After Ma’s death, his children would continue the restaurant expanding to as many as six branches during the 1980s. Today two restaurants remain and are operated under the family owned Ma Mon Luk International Corporation.
Chinese Cemetery, Kids Tombs, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The kids tombs
Chinese Cemetery, Kids Tombs, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
According to my guide the kids were always buried separately from their parents
Chinese Cemetery, Deserted Grave, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The vegetation slowly takes over here

​The squatters climbed the fences...

Before the squatters climbed the fences to get in. Until the 1960:s, many families employed grave watchmen to stay at the mausoleums around the clock. But when the guards started bringing their families to live on the grounds, the practice was banned. Although the squatters no longer spend the nights at the cemetery, the caretakers and their families find it a nice place for a picnic, and even a nap. They stretch out on the cool marble floors or even on top of the crypts. 
Chinese Cemetery, My guide is patiently waiting for me, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
My guide is patiently waiting for me.
Chinese Cemetery, Empty Tombs, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Someone did not renew the lease of the tombs...
Chinese Cemetery, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Yeah the umbrella was to protect myself from the heat...

​Ruby Tower Memorial

At the end of the street you see the Ruby Tower Memorial. This memorial is dedicated to Chinese-Filipinos who were among the 260 people who perished in the collapse of the six-storey Ruby Tower building in the Manila suburb of Binondo during the deadly "Casiguran" earthquake that hit the capital city on 2 August 1968. ​The memorial is located just in the rear of the famous Lee See Tong Martyr's Hall.
Chinese Cemetery, Ruby Tower Memorial, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog

​Weird anecdotes

 According to my guide, if the children died before their parents, they were not going to be buried together with the parents but separately at another place in the cemetery. But there were some cases of married men who happened to have had a mistress who was buried together with him and his wife in the same mausoleum! My guide showed me an even weirder example, where a married man and his mistress were dead and consequently they had been buried together. But the husband's wife was still alive and the wife had already got her designated resting place set up beside her husband and his mistress when the time was ready for her!
Chinese Cemetery, Grave, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Chinese Cemetery, The Lim Family, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
There are also ultra modern mausoleums as this one built by the Lim Family.
Chinese Cemetery, View over the surroundings, Manila, Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The Manila Chinese Cemetery
Santa Cruz, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone: +63 2 253 4202
How to get there
​Take the metro LRT to Abad Santos then walk or take a tricycle (P25) to the south entrance.
Related links:
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila​
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila​
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial​
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery​
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park​
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Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant (Manila, Luzon, Philippines)

1/6/2017

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​My favorite Thai, Jatujak Restaurant in Mall of Asia

​The name is inspired by the lively and intoxicating ambience of the Jatujak market in Bangkok. In a way that can be true, sometimes the Jatujak restaurant is crowded with guests, which of course it's a proof that they are doing a good job. 

They have Khao Neeo, sticky rice

The food is delicious and spicy as it should be. They even have Khao Neeo, that is sticky rice (also known as sweet rice or glutinous rice) which is common in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand. Of course every Thai restaurant with self esteem must have Khao Neeo, which surprisingly is not obvious everywhere! 


Rating: 1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
4 Food 
4 Service
4 Value
4 Atmosphere
I have been here many times 2016-2017

Jatujak Thai Restaurant
SM Mall of Asia, 2:nd floor,
Seaside Blvd., Pasay City, Philippines
Phone: +6325560850
Review of JatuJak Thai Restaurant, Exterior, Mall of Asia, Manila Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
​Note! Click on images to see slideshow and captions!
Fried pork belly, papaya salad, Khao Neeo (sticky rice) and fried chicken skin.
Dancing in the sofa gets a new meaning here... the father is desperately trying to get his son to eat
Papaya salad, a spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya
Chicken skewers, papaya salad and sticky rice
Related links:
Visit Intramuros in Manila​
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial​
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery​
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park​
0 Comments
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