Top 10 Reasons to Enjoy Manila*

10. You speak the language and read the signage.

9. You can speed and violate all sorts of traffic rules with impunity. (And I'm not talking about bribing law enforcment officers. I'm talking about the fact that apart from going past a red light and the occassional swerving violation, traffic offenses are not prosecuted in Manila.)

8. The sky is big and it is blue.

7. Trees are perfect. (If you have a good eye and look out for them.)

6. Massages.

5. Endless conversation over cups of coffee and overpriced buko juice.

4. Family and friends.

3. Red Horse beer.

2. Sisig

1. Fresh oysters.

* Not necessarily in order. But it could be.