traveling to Olongapo? here's some things to do/know

[Blake]

"you're planning for an adventurous getaway, you cannot exclude Olongapo City in your must-see list to visit. Located along the western shores of Central Luzon, Olongapo City is a two hour drive northwest of Manila and can be reached by plane via the Subic Bay International Airport.*

The place itself has a lot of interesting stories and an inspiring history to tell. Prior to 1980, Olongapo went by the nickname, “Sin City of the Philippines". With the election of Dick Gordon as Mayor, he quickly instituted numerous reforms that garnered both local and international awards in public administration and soon, that nickname became a thing of the past.*

The challenges that awaited the City did not end there. In quick succession, the city survived the horrors of the eruption Mt. Pinatubo in 1991 and the following year, the Philippine Senate voted not to renew the Bases Agreement, leaving tens of thou¬sands of employees jobless.*

Undaunted, the people of Olongapo volunteered to protect the former U.S. Base and to preserve the remaining virgin forest of its size in Luzon.*

Their courage and determination paid off. Olongapo City has risen from the ashes and emerged as the premier economic showcase of the Philippines and one of Asia's great tourist destinations.*........

http://www.visitmyphilippines.com/index.php?title=OlongapoCity&func=all&pid=1787

[Blake]

"...Prior to 1980...went by the nickname "Sin City of the Philippines"

Interesting. I wonder how it got that name.

[clambake]

now, what do we do with all that white trash we used to dump on them?

[SpursforSix]

now, what do we do with all that white trash we used to dump on them?

wow...what we have here is...sailors were over there and just having fun...
hey there Old Spice...you buy drink for me...
what'll you have
whatever you have daddy san
my favorite is 15 year old...Scotch (wink)

[Blake]

Lol Old Spice

[Blake]

" ....Olongapo City has risen from the ashes and emerged as the premier economic showcase of the Philippines and one of Asia's great tourist destinations.*

Getting There*

Olongapo City is a pleasant 2 ½ hour drive northeast from Manila. Public buses (Victory Liner and Saulog Transit) leave hourly from terminals. International and domestic flights (Philippine Airlines, Eastern Transport & China Southern Air) are avallable via Subic Bay International Airport.*

Foreign Exchange*

Most banks and foreign exchange dealers accept travelers check as well as most major inter¬national currencies.*

Postal Service*

Olongapo City's main post office is located on Rizal Avenue, in front of the City Hall. Interna¬tional and domestic courier services (Federal Express, DHL, Aboitiz, LBC, etc.) are also available in the City.*

Telephones*

The area code for Olongapo City is 47. To make a domestic call outside this calling area, dial "0" before the number. To make an international , call dial "00" before the country code of the number you are calling.*

Local and international calls may be made from most hotel rooms. Pay phones may also be found in certain public areas. For telephone assistance, please dial 109 (for local calls) and 108 (international calls).*

Car and Van Rentals*

Car and Van Rentals are available particularly along the Magsaysay Drive area. Rentals often include a driver.*

Banks*

Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ATMS are available throughout the city.*

OLONGAPO CITY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS*

Welcome Sign - Coming from the South, e gateway welcomes you to Olorigapo City*

World Peace Memorial - The dove that greets the victors at the entry point to Olongapo City stands as a sign of peace, in memory of those who died during the Battle of Lgzag Pass, one of the longest and most hazardous battles during World War II.*

Beach Boulevard - Olongapo's beaches are easily accessible and affordable. There are several beaches to choose from along the Beach Boulevard in Barangay Barretto - the golden mile for fun and relaxation.*

The City is in the stage of preparing the design that will create a Riviera-like atmosphere along the coastline wherein a boardwalk stretching out along the sea shall be built.*

Nlghtife - Olongapo's famed nightlife has only gotten better. Many of today's celebrity bands actually started In the Citys entertainment districts. Sing and dance the night way along the many clubs of Magsaysay Drive, Gordon Avenue, Rizal Avenue and Beach Boulevard, Barretto*
..."

[Blake]

Oh cool. They have a welcome sign.