I returned last night from three weeks in Mindanao. Probably the most enjoyable three weeks of my life. I am also now officially engaged. I spent most of my time at her parents home in Jassan, Misamis Oriental; just north of Cagayan De Oro. I took several day trips into Cagayan De Oro, and if anyone plans on going there it is an outstanding city for shopping and dining out.
I really loved it in Jassan. The people living out in these rural areas were very friendly and hospitable. I noticed that a lot of people would just stare at me until I broke the ice with a a smile, a wave or a hello. Then they acted like I'd been there forever. I also had a chance to get up in the hills when I went with her father to harvest some cocoanuts, bannannas, and jack fruit. I also loved the barangay in the evening. When everyone was home from work and school the entire place just sprung to life. People were out walking or sitting out in front of their homes. People playing basketball and boys out fighting spiders; all the little stands and stores where you could get ice cold Coke (IN REAL GLASS BOTTLES!!!!)or a beer and sit listen to the KTV singers. Sometimes I would stop at one of the little window stores and buy a handfull of candy to hand out to the neighbourhood kids.
I also took a trip further down the coast into Iligan City for about three days. My fiance actually lives with her married sister in Iligan and works there in a maternity hospital. Iligan can get a little spooky at times. Many Mulims living in their own towns south of Iligan come into the city for business. Some seem not too happy to see foreigners. Shortly before I arrived they abducted a Chinese business man and were holding him for P50 million ransom. At one point we caught a man following us on the street, we quickly exited into a store, and he crossed the street. He then stood there for a few minutes until I looked directly at him. Then he left. It's not a bad place really, most of the folks were great, but if you go there watch your back.
As for my fiance, Alma, she was great. I have never before enjoyed such wonderful treatment. She was an amazing combination of friend, fiance, tour guide, hostess, cook, maid, and body guard. I'm not sure I could have gotten into trouble or hurt if I had tried too when she was around.
I also have to comment on China Airlines. I highly reccomend it. The service was far superior to any US based carrier I've ever flown, and the price was much lower. Not to mention the absolutely lovely Taiwanese flight attendents.
