Skepticism

"The State Department warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to the southern Philippine islands and urges extreme caution if traveling there. Sporadic violence throughout the Philippines is also possible before and after the May 10 national and local elections and the June 30 inaugurations.
...Kidnap-for-ransom gangs are active throughout the Philippines and have targeted foreigners.."

We have all decided that we need a game plan: we need to lie about where we are from when people ask. And really look mean and just not really talk to people. We considered talking in pig latin and saying we were from some unknown country. My friends are especially worried about me because I look white, while they are all asian. But we are all pretty touristy looking... Plus we are traveling with some tall white belgian guys so that is a dead give away... not good. We are all definitely feeling nervous... but trying to stay positive.

This is our last big trip together, all of us. The last hurrah. Exchange is coming to an end. And while it is extremely bittersweet, I am excited to move on to the next part of this crazy Asian Year and travel around with mom. And then go home. !!! Which will be craziness. Weirdness. Madness...