Journey to Harrison Plaza (Manila)

I got this plastic modelling itch back again and I have decided to do some research and find out if there are any good hobby kit shops in Manila. I chance upon this website IPMS Manila and the website has indicated to shops Lil's Hobby Store and JMN's Hobby Square . As I have been to one of the Lil's Hobby Store before, I have decided, this time round, to venture to this unknown place called Harrison Plaza where JMN's Hobby Square is located (you can find the travel direction from the JMN's link above). I was kind of disappointed with the shop when I reach there but for others but I guess that's because I couldn't find what I want though I must say, the shop might still interest you. You can find Gundams, Dragon kits, Revell (Germany), Monogram, Tamiya, Hotwheels and some rare 1:18 diecast automotive models.

I decided to walkaround and have a look. This Harrison Plaza looks like a place for locals and it's a 2-storey building with a large area coverage; you can find DVD movies, PSP games, mobile phones and there's also the SM Mega mall beside it. I happen to notice quite a big toy store called "Ultimate Toys" and decided to take a look. It's not that all ultimate actually but I'm still able to find some interesting stuffs. They have quite a good collection of High Speed 1:43 Porsche models. As I'm not into 1:43s, my attentions were on the 1:18. There's nothing much except some Maisto and Welly models and the Welly 1:18 racing blue Diablo SV caught my attention. I request to have a detail check on the model before making a purchase it apparently, there were some blemishes on the models paint job which is in contact with the plastic supports. I guess they were not aware themselves and probably didn't expect customers to be fussy about such things ;)

I decided not to take the model; second dissapointment. I decided to drop by National Bookstore and look around. To my surprise, I spotted a toy section in the bookstore. When I examine the glass cabinet, to my surprise, I notice something worth taking note from the four models on display: a 1:18 scale 1940 BMW 328.... Without hesitating, I request to take a look at the model and at last, no dissapointment, I decided to take this model.

It was about 6:30pm when I'm done with my recce and decided to head back. It's actually quite a challenge. Challenge 1: there are "Helpful" Philippinos who will help to get you a cab (young boys and man). Downside is, they will not close the door until you tip them. Challenge 2: When I got into the Taxi, the cab driver tries to negotiate with you although I have indicated to our "unofficial conciege" that I will only take a metered Taxi. Well, I didn't really want to bargain or become nasty and decided to tell the driver that he can just send me to the MRT (Metro Rail Transit) station and requested him to turn his meter on. Fortunately, he was nice enough to give in... phew....

Oh, I forgot to mention that I actually took the MRT, then LRT and walk to Harrison Plaza. When I'm done with my shopping, it was a little dark and I decided to take a Taxi.