This past weekend was to be an adventure for me. Oh, I guess it did turn out to be an adventure, just not as I had planned it. About 2 months ago, perhaps a bit more than that, I had an idea come to me. It was an idea for a somewhat unconventional trip. When […]
Does Philippine Customs overcharge?
Over the years, I have had items shipped into the Philippines from various places. Sometimes I order goods and have them shipped in. Sometimes friends and readers send me gifts (thank you to those who have done so, BTW). In addition to my own experiences, I also hear from others who e-mail me or talk […]
Sorry, Charlie
A funny thing happened last week. Well, it wasn’t quite so funny at the time it happened, but in retrospect it was indeed funny, or at least quite coincidental. Last Thursday, I woke up and I decided I wanted to buy a new Netbook. For those readers who are not really techies, a netbook is […]
It’s been a long journey, though it seems short
My interest in and association with the Philippines hits a milestone today. It’s been a long journey, though the time seems so short. I started out by coming to the Philippines for the first time on July 24, 1990. I came back again in 1992, 1995 and 1999 before moving here to live permanently in […]
The country’s debt rating has been UPGRADED!
Over the past few months or so, the USA has been in an uproar with politicians all fighting over the debt ceiling, budget cuts, new taxes, all things financial have been discussed. This week, an agreement was reached among the opposing political camps. The compromised on the issues. I, personally, am not so sure that […]
Warning for American Expats – Be prepared!
The motto of the Boy Scouts is “Be Prepared.” The motto should also apply to American expats living in the Philippines, or in any other country in the world for that matter. What do we need to be prepared for? The declining value of the US Dollar. Yesterday, the US Dollar closed the Philippine Trading […]