Foreign Travel?

[dmccarty]

Was ticketed to fly out 12 hours ago SFO destination Davao.

Received a text relaying information from a friend in the Philippine National Police force saying not a good time to come as 2000 police mobilized and clashing with protestors at my destination with injuries.

Press release PAL and Cebu Pacific offering rebooking and refunds but I’m not holding my breath.

It’s a corner of the world I was looking forward to visiting but it’s no longer a pleasure trip if there is civil unrest…

Worst case is I made a contribution to the Philippine economy.

Best case I dodged a bullet metaphorically.

On a side note just about everyone in my circle flying is coming home sick… 2 were hospitalized in country… one Costa Rica and the other Greece.

Sorry to hear you had to cancel your trip but it was going to be a risk. All it takes is a run in with the wrong people who see you as a lottery ticket. Look at what happened to the US Marines in Turkey this weekend. That could have gotten very bad, very fast. We were lucky to visit China and Hong Kong a decade ago. We did not have much time in Hong Kong, which we regret even more so today, because I don't think it is safe for US citizens to travel to there and I don't see us going back until there is regime change.

We traveled to Europe last spring, and knock on wood, nobody got sick. But we know several people who have traveled overseas recently who have gotten sick.

 

[ultrarunner]

The saga continues…

Just received urgent text message from Philippine Airlines my booked flight home cancelled due to an Airline problem with the offering to book another airline, accommodations, refund etc…

From the day after I booked the universe has been telling me don’t go… or so it seems.

Excerpt

Dear Valued Passenger,

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the cancellation of your flight PR104 from MNL to SFO, originally scheduled for September 08, 2024, at 2250H. This change is necessary due to maintenance issues. We understand that this may have a negative impact on your travel plans, and we regret any inconvenience caused

 

[Caballywh]

I love foreign travel! It’s like stepping into a new world every time. They can be a game-changer for long flights. If you’re looking for a bit of luxury without breaking the bank, I’d suggest checking out cheap business class tickets. It’s way more comfortable and you can enjoy some pampering. I recently found some great deals, and the trip was much better. Plus, it’s an excellent way to treat yourself. Let me know if you have any destinations in mind or need tips on finding good deals.

 

[ultrarunner]

I'm spoiled flying Lufthansa to Germany.

On time is the rule and never had airport issues at either end... maybe just luck?

 

[tradosaurus]

I'm spoiled flying Lufthansa to Germany.

On time is the rule and never had airport issues at either end... maybe just luck?

My wife and I are probably going to Germany in late December and in the process of completing our passport application.
We have the choice of American or Lufthansa. What did you like about Lufthansa?

 

[tradosaurus]

I have several retired military friends and also know one Austrian police officer retired in the Philippines... none on Mindanao but all are very happy...
Foreign currency goes far and maybe their happiness is because they all have a much younger wife or girlfriend...
Built beautiful Western style homes with off grid water and power systems... 2 are ocean front and 2 at elevation...
Not trouble free but none have plans of returning to country of origin and Tricare does provide some services for the military guys...
60 and a new father and now 65 with daughter starting school...
He said he has a new lease on life seeing the world through the eyes of his child... maybe it's because he now has the time to be a father where before military came first..

I've heard it's best to visit the country you want to relocate for a few weeks to make sure it's something you want.
I've watched utube videos discussing Philippines. The experience is great if you have the money but marrying and starting a family at 60 would not be what I would consider idyllic. Also heard that if you marry a Philippine woman you are also will be supporting her family.

 

[ultrarunner]

My wife and I are probably going to Germany in late December and in the process of completing our passport application.
We have the choice of American or Lufthansa. What did you like about Lufthansa?

Lufthansa has nonstop SF to Munich which is 10-11 hours and I'm there.

I find Lufthansa is very punctual on time... it didn't hurt that they upgraded me to business once either but that is unusual or so I have been told.

American would require change of plane for same destination.

My best flights ever were Swiss and PanAm...

 

[ultrarunner]

I've heard it's best to visit the country you want to relocate for a few weeks to make sure it's something you want.
I've watched utube videos discussing Philippines. The experience is great if you have the money but marrying and starting a family at 60 would not be what I would consider idyllic. Also heard that if you marry a Philippine woman you are also will be supporting her family.

Pretty much my understanding...

I was just going because if my coworkers... About half the hospital staff has connection to the Philippines... 33 years ago when I started not a single one...

 

[kenmbz]

It's a shame this is becoming such a chore to get flights.
I have flown Singapore Air many times and they are fantastic.
Do they have any flights going your way?

 

[ultrarunner]

Didn’t check since I was tagging along with coworkers .

Never say never but not likely heading that way again…

What I need to do is get to Austria… it’s 9 years already as I was keeping busy here caring for Mom…

I did use my 2 weeks productively… turned over a 2 bedroom apartment and nearly finished a 3 bedroom 2 bath home with rent start date Oct 1.

Apartments are easy… clean and paint and maybe some faucet stems and rekey locks.

Single family homes much more involved by square footage plus landscape, etc…