February 28, 2014

Manila, Luzon, Philippines

Exhilaration is an understatement of my feelings when we arrived in Manila. Manila is a lively city. It was a Spanish colony for more than 300 years, and following the Spanish American War it was colonized by the Americans. For me, it has always radiated a cosmopolitan ambiance, despite being labeled as being behind other Asian Countries in terms of economic development. It was still an hour before we were to dock. On the promenade deck, (our deck), the railing was crowded with excited Filipino crew, all gazing shore ward. Some of them were already busy talking to their loved ones on their cell phones. It was a very happy and touching scene. Tears started to well up in my eyes, and I started to choke. It was my first visit via a cruise ship, and my first visit since 2008. It is here where I was born,where both my parents were born, and now laid resting in the cemetery that I so wished to see. Bert tried to say something but I pretended to ignore him, so he would not notice my teary eyes. Women and men dressed in traditional costume threw their arms into the air welcoming our ship,and all of us passengers. Suddenly, somewhere down the wharf, started a cacophony of music, laughter and singing.

The warmest of smiles and greetings welcomed us. I think I was the first passenger to rush down the gangway. At the port terminal, I recognized my nephews Michael, M.A. and my niece's, Michelle and Jovy. Beside, them was my eldest niece Darlene, and her daughter, Celestine. Together they were holding a banner scribbled in bright colors that read, “Welcome HOME, Tita (Auntie) Lotty & Uncle Bert. ‘

They came early and were prepared to stand in line to honor our arrival. It looked like a scene from a movie. Their familiar voices greeted my ears. Together, they all came and hugged me, and their touch sent an exciting jolt through my body. My heart thumped so loud as I hugged back. Very soon, the screaming chant of men and women welcoming us, left me breathless. I'd never wanted to go to Manila for just two days, and just get a glimpse of my family and home. But there I was magically, feeling like it is going to last forever. From across the ocean I was finally home ! I tried to pinch myself and check if this intense feeling was just but a dream, but I look around and saw my husband standing, chatting with my family. The warm smiles, hugs, and greetings couldn't have made me feel more at home.

We took them aboard the ship and showed them around. For two days, each time they showed up, I tried to talk to anyone, everyone, and all of them at the same time. Between bites of food, I got lost in the blur of conversations and gesturing. Two days later and several meals later, my family's joy was palpable and infectious. As Bert and I departed, it was hard not to admit this delightful way to reconnect and bond with my family, was well worth it. It may have been too short, and I'd never want to leave, yet it was an incredible and beautiful end to a journey. It was one of my happiest and most exciting visits ever. For the most part, the Ship's management team did a wonderful job in the planning and preparation for our ship's arrival in Manila so the Filipino crew could take some time off and be with their family even if only for a short while.

**Philippe jeepney is the everyday mode of transportation.**

Most of the Filipino crew brought their kids and wives on the ship and they were able to see where Daddy or Mommy work. Another surprise for us was the performance of the kids from the local orphanage called the The Association de Damas de Filipinas. The kids performed so well, somebody from the audience cried, “Gene,hire them!” People lined-up to donate to the orphanage (on their cash box) following the kids performance. They raised US$5,000.

On our sail away, Holland America gave us a free flow of champagne, beer, appetizers and all kinds of drinks, which was really a nice gesture. The band started playing an hour before our ship started moving. We were already quite a distant when I looked back and people were still waving at us. On our starboard side was the beautiful sun setting with Corregidor Island in the background.

What an unforgettable setting!

P.S .L' Oreal waterproof mascara and dark sunglasses, super priceless!

Comment

Very moving, tears are in my eyes too. Thank you for sharing your happy family reunion in Manila. From Kim L., on Mar 13, 2014 at 03:35 p.m

Straight To The Heart Of Home- Manila, Philippines

“Inspire & Inform”