We arrived in the Philippines around 1 a.m. but for the first time we knew exactly where we were going and exactly who we were looking for. My cousins Steve and Karen were standing at the exit of the Manila airport Steve was wearing an oh-so-familiar St. Louis Cardinals hat, and it felt comforting. Steve and Karen live in the Makati (one of the many cities that make up Meto Manila) and we were driven by their personal driver to our home-base during our stay in the Philippines. They were so truly amazing. They welcomed us into their home, provided drivers for all but a few days there, they fed us multiple times, showed us around & suggested must-see things and provided us with this beautiful day trip from Manila. I don’t think we could ever say enough thanks to the two of you guys and I hope to someday repay that kindness, if not to you personally, by following your example and helping other young travelers. TAGAYTAY is just over 30 miles away from Manila and it’s surprisingly cooler than the swelteringly hot capital because it’s at a slightly higher elevation. While we were driving up our amazing driver, Ed, was the perfect tour guide. […]