There's only two major cities in the Philippines, Cebu and Manila. I'm more comfortable in Cebu mainly because I lived there for several years. Although it's been over 25 years since I left and looks nothing like it did when I was a kid (the city has transformed into a sprawling metropolis) it still really feels like home.
We spent equal time (4 days) in Cebu and Manila and found them to be worlds apart:
Cebu is more laid back. The people are more friendly. Not as many good restaurants. The taxi drivers were more honest.
Manila is more hectic. The people weren't as friendly. Lots of good restaurants. The cab drivers were less honest.
In the Philippines the Jeepney is the best way to get around. The people in the Philippines were quite clever. They took the remnants of the Jeeps leftover from World War II and converted them into small busses. However, in 90 degree heat with 90 percent humidity, we opted for AIR-CON (short for air conditioned) taxis.
In Cebu the taxi drivers didn't even try to rip us off. They simply told us the fare based on what appeared on their meters. In Manila, it was a much different story. A 4 kilometer taxi ride that should've cost us 100 pesos (approximately $2) cost us anywhere from 100 pesos to 400 pesos or $2 to $8.
We were getting ripped off but we really weren't.
The taxi drivers that charged up to 400 pesos spoke English and loved to chat. They gave suggestions on things to do and places to see. They played American music (Bon Jovi is played regularly). Their cars were nicer. They dressed nicer. They also drove with a much more calm demeanor; they didn't drive crazy. In other words they provided a higher level of service.
The taxi drivers that charged us 100 pesos, didn't speak a lick of English, drove like they were in a NASCAR race, had cars that were looked like they ready for the junk heap any day, wore flip flops instead of shoes, didn't know the first thing about personal hygiene, and last but not least didn't even want a tip.
We preferred the 100 peso taxi. While the service was less than stellar, we kind of liked the adventure.
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