While in Makati I got one other Pokémon capsule from a vending machine. This one was a licensed Magikarp charm.
Magikarp Capsule
Pokeball Capsules
On Marikina I spotted a coin vending machine that had Pokéball capsules for 5 pisos. They’re almost certainly unauthorized, and held toys and stickers that were close to the real thing.
Pokémon Adventures 03
I’ve been enjoying picking up the Pokemon Adventures manga when I have down time, and it only got better for the third volume. The pacing is very brisk, with exciting character moments, pivotal battles and heartfelt pronouncements about the power of friendship.
A Brief Stop in Guangzhou
We had a short layover in Guangzhou, with enough time to sit down for a nice meal at Jardin De Jade. We each ordered a combo of vegetable salad, boiled veggie and buns stuffed with black mushrooms and vegetables. The descriptions and even menu photos didn’t do justice to the quality and quantity that arrived. The meal was delicious and filling. The Longjing (dragon well) tea was also excellent.
Saying Goodbye to Marikina
We have enjoyed our time in Marikina, and have seen many beautiful things. It has been nice getting to know Tonet’s family better. I’ll miss the many cats that wander the streets here. I’ll miss the wonderful weather and the surprising sights. It’s sad to be leaving the Philippines, and I’ll carry the good memories with me.
Greg & Sally Tree Garden Cafe
For our last day in the Philippines Tonet and I went with her family to Greg & Sally Tree Garden Cafe, a beautiful restaurant near her sister’s home.
The ambiance was great, with trees providing shade, a couple Buddhas around, a jack-o’-lantern in January, a swing by the table and lots of nice little touches.
The food was very good. Mushroom sisig, garlic tumeric rice, gumamela iced tea, kangkong chips, basil oyster mushrooms and vegetable gising gising were all delicious!
A Long Walk in Marikina
Today I took a last long walk through Marikina. We fly out early Sunday morning and likely will have a full day tomorrow, so it was nice to spend a few hours wandering and seeing a few new places before I go.
Highlights included a statue of former mayor Gil Fernando and the looming Disneyified campus of the OLOPSC Preschool.
Crystal Flights II
I continued my play through of Pokémon Crystal on two flights and some long journeys through heavy traffic. The game continued to be engaging and I was able to make my way through Johto, collecting the 8 badges and besting the elite four. I then played through the first two gyms in Kanto. I’ll likely play during my flights home and be done.
Back in Marikina
Last night we arrived back in Marikina and this morning I went out to run and walk around. There are always new side streets and surprising spots to find. I learned there is a House of Unicorns Cafe here!
I had to do some searching, but I did find one more Pokémon straw, this time of Froakie, but I may never have Chespin to be able to slurp through each of the gen 6 starters.
One Last Run in Guiuan
On my last full day in Guiuan, I visited a beach and did some running along it. The view was so beautiful that it was distracting, but it felt so good to be running though lovely scenery. The cliffs and gentle waves made for a refreshing and exhilarating experience.
