Santiago City

Santiago City is in no way a touristy town. I don't think there is a single place of tourist attraction here, actually. I like it that way, though. I get the full Filipino experience. But it also means 98% of the time, I'm the only white person around. And most of you already know how white I am, therefore I really stick out. Also, the height thing which I've already discussed. Being really white plus being really tall equals I stick out like a sore thumb and lots of stares head my way. But neither of those really bother me.

I wanted to share some pictures I've taken around Santiago City proper. As I said in a previous post, I don't actually live in Santiago City proper, I live in a Barangay called Divisoria about 15-20 minutes outside the city proper. According to Wikipedia, Santiago City has a population of about 132,000. It is located about 202 miles north of Manila in the province of Isabela. The city is said to be "the gateway to the vast lands of Cagayan, Isabela, and Quirino."

These little markets line the road on the way into and out of the city.

One other thing that always cracks me up is when coming into the city there is a sign that says, "The most child friendly city in the Philippines." I'm not sure how one measures that and I don't know if it's actually true. I guess I will have to ask some of the locals how they feel about the label.

I find it to be a good size city. It's not too rural, not too urban. I can find what I need there. I can even indulge in some McDonald's or pizza if I choose to do so. On days that we have gone into the city, it is quite a bustling place where tricycles rule the road.

Here are some photos to give you a better idea:

Roundabout

So many tricycles!

The Methodist Church is also present here.

One of the entrances into the Public Market.

One of the bridges that leads into the city.

The mall.

The SaveMore Market where I buy all my groceries. 

I hope you have a better picture of where I live now!

Thanks for reading!