Manila

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Manila

Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions. As a tourist, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to see, do, and experience in this fascinating city. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate Manila like a pro!

Places to Go

Historical Landmarks

  • Intramuros: The walled city of Manila, featuring historic landmarks like Fort Santiago, Palacio del Gobernador, and San Agustin Church.
  • Rizal Park (Luneta Park): A historic park where national hero Jose Rizal was executed in 1896.
  • Malacañang Palace: The official residence of the President of the Philippines.

Museums

  • National Museum: Showcases the country’s rich history, art, and culture.
  • Ayala Museum: Features a collection of Filipino art, history, and culture.
  • Museo Pambata: A children’s museum with interactive exhibits.

Shopping Centers

  • SM Mall of Asia: One of the largest shopping malls in Asia, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Greenbelt: An upscale shopping center with a mix of local and international brands.
  • Divisoria Market: A bustling marketplace for affordable souvenirs and local goods.

Nature Escapes

  • Rizal Park (Luneta Park): A scenic park with gardens, lakes, and walking trails.
  • Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center: A protected area with a lagoon, botanical garden, and wildlife sanctuary.
  • La Mesa Ecopark: An eco-friendly park with a lake, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

Activities

Cultural Experiences

  • Watch a traditional Filipino dance performance: Enjoy cultural shows at the Cultural Center of the Philippines or the National Museum.
  • Take a jeepney tour: Explore Manila’s streets on a colorful jeepney, a popular mode of transportation in the city.
  • Attend a mass at the Quiapo Church: Experience the vibrant Catholic faith of Filipinos.

Adventure and Sports

  • Visit the Star City amusement park: Enjoy thrill rides, arcade games, and other attractions.
  • Go hiking or biking at the La Mesa Ecopark: Explore the great outdoors in this eco-friendly park.
  • Take a Manila Bay cruise: Relax on a sunset cruise around Manila Bay.

Food Trips

  • Try street food at the Night Market: Savor popular Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lechon.
  • Visit the Salcedo Market: Sample local delicacies and buy fresh produce.
  • Go on a food tour: Explore Manila’s culinary scene with guided tours.

Where to Eat

Local Cuisine

  • Jollibee: A popular fast-food chain serving Filipino-style burgers, fries, and chicken.
  • Max’s Restaurant: Known for their fried chicken and Filipino comfort food.
  • Barrio Fiesta: Offers traditional dishes like sinigang, adobo, and lechon.

International Cuisine

  • Greenbelt 3: An upscale dining area with international restaurants like Italian, Japanese, and Korean cuisine.
  • Bonifacio Global City: A trendy neighborhood with a variety of international eateries.
  • The Podium: A food court with international options like Chinese, American, and Mediterranean cuisine.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostels: Affordable accommodations like MNL Hostel, Z Hostel, or Tambayan Capsule Hostel.
  • Guesthouses: Cozy guesthouses like Casa Manila or La Casita de Manila.
  • Budget hotels: Simple but clean and comfortable options like Red Planet Hotel or Go Hotels.

Mid-Range Options

  • Hotels: Mid-range hotels like the Bayleaf Intramuros, The Henry Hotel, or the Winford Manila Resort & Casino.
  • Serviced apartments: Self-catering accommodations like Somerset Millennium Makati or Ascott Makati.

Luxury Options

  • 5-star hotels: Upscale hotels like the Shangri-La at the Fort, The Peninsula Manila, or the Sofitel Philippine Plaza.
  • Resorts: Luxurious resorts like the Okada Manila or the Solaire Resort & Casino.

Things to Know

Weather and Climate

  • Manila has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round.
  • Be prepared for occasional rain showers and typhoons during the rainy season (June to October).

Language and Currency

  • Filipino (based on Tagalog) is the national language, but English is widely spoken.
  • The Philippine peso (PHP) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks, money changers, or withdraw from ATMs.

Safety and Security

  • Be mindful of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas.
  • Avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable transportation services.
  • Stay informed about local news and events to avoid potential safety risks.

Transportation

By Air

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA): The primary airport serving Manila, with three terminals.
  • Take a taxi or ride-hailing service: From the airport to your destination, using services like Grab or Uber.

By Land

  • Jeepneys: Colorful and affordable public transportation, but be prepared for crowded conditions.
  • Taxis: Widely available, but make sure to use licensed taxis with meters.
  • Ride-hailing services: Convenient options like Grab or Uber for door-to-door service.
  • Walking and cycling: Explore Manila’s neighborhoods on foot or by bike, but be cautious of traffic.

Tips and Essentials

Packing

  • Light and breathable clothing for hot weather
  • Comfortable shoes for walking
  • Power adapter for charging electronic devices
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
  • Insect repellent
  • Water bottle

Health and Hygiene

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Avoid eating undercooked food or raw vegetables
  • Practice good hygiene (wash hands frequently, use hand sanitizer)

Communication

  • Buy a local SIM card: For affordable data and voice services.
  • Use public Wi-Fi: Available in many restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers.

Money and Shopping

  • Exchange currency: At banks, money changers, or withdraw from ATMs.
  • Use credit cards: Widely accepted at major establishments.
  • Bargain at markets: Expect to haggle prices when buying souvenirs or local goods.

Other Things of Interest

Festivals and Events

  • Sinulog Festival: A colorful celebration of the Sto. Niño (Child Jesus) in January.
  • Pista ng Maynila: A festive celebration of Manila’s founding in June.
  • La Naval de Manila: A historic reenactment of a 16th-century naval battle in October.

Day Trips

  • Tagaytay: A scenic town with stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano (2 hours away).
  • Corregidor Island: A historic island with military significance, accessible by ferry (1 hour away).
  • Pagsanjan Falls: A breathtaking waterfall in Laguna Province (3 hours away).

Conclusion

Manila is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the city like a pro and make the most of your trip. From historical landmarks to delicious food trips, Manila has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Asia’s most vibrant cities!