Manila is a city that provides something to do for all its tourists. It’s a city where you can simply wander down the street and enjoy the architecture, or spend some time in one of the parks, getting to know the inhabitants.
Immerse yourself in Manila’s past, while appreciating the creative spirit it retains today. You may see the Manila Cathedral, take a break at a café, then proceed to a mall to get some deals. From history and culture, Manila has so much to offer to be explored. So, are you looking to go there? Stop thinking and start planning. Get packed, book united airlines reservations in any class and save up to 40% off on one-way & round trips on every flight till the last minute. And if you’re seeking additional suggestions, check reading these top things to do in Manila.
Old Manila – Intramuros
This ancient walled city was formerly the center of the Spanish and American administrations during their colonial reign in the Philippines. After being reduced to rubble after World War II, rebuilding started in the 1950s. You may just stroll around the Intramuros neighborhood or ride in a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) to explore Manila’s oldest quarter. Perhaps you’ll appreciate walking the grounds with a guide, which will save you time and offer you a greater perspective on the city’s history and culture. Two local guides stand out (in English): Carlos Celdran and Ivan Mandy
Sunset cruise in Manila Bay
The sunset across Manila Bay has been one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions for years. Whether you’re a romantic or not, the experience is much more remarkable when you intend to eat on a boat while sailing or chartering your own yacht.
Local specialities in the Binondo district
Manila drew numerous international merchants even before the Spanish conquistadors captured the city and subsequently gave an enclave, named Binondo, to Chinese businessmen. Here you can discover the oldest Chinatown in the world and an assortment of eateries that provide delectable and cheap food. During your stay in Manila, also test the balut, a cooked egg in which the fetus is already developed, it is a delicacy of the nation (an appetizer) (an appetizer). Also, try street food like Isaw (skewered pig or chicken intestines) (skewered pork or chicken intestines). You will discover on the marketplaces something to whet your appetite… or not.
Chinatown
At first sight, Manila’s Chinatown doesn’t appear like a tourist area; it’s loud, a little worn down, and traffic is frequently congested. But it is important recalling that there has been a Chinese commercial presence in the region since the 800s and that this neighborhood, known as Binondo, evolved as a nearby town for persecuted Chinese Hokkien immigrants and their descendants during the Spanish colonial era. The greatest way to view it occurs to be from calesa or a jeepney. It’s worth your time for the Buddhist temples of Seng Guan and Kuang Kong, as well as the herbal medicine stores and sellers on Ongpin and Carvajal streets.
Rizal Park
This historic park also acknowledged as Luneta used to be the location of several public executions during the period of Spanish rule, including that of the three Filipino priests Gomburza-Mariano Gomez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora but mainly the hero national, Jose Rizal. That is why it is here that a monument was raised in honor of Rizal. This antique marble monument commemorates mile zero of the Philippines.
Visit historic Catholic churches
The Philippines is the fifth-biggest Catholic nation in the world and there are a lot of historic churches in Manila. Their architecture, frescoes, and varied embellishments are superb examples of the many creative styles. The most popular structures are Quiapo Church, Baclaran Church, San Sebastian Church, San Agustin Church, and Manila Cathedral.
Manila Baywalk
The Baywalk is two kilometers from the American Embassy to the Cultural Center of the Philippines and is encircled by a row of palm trees that shelter it from Roxas Boulevard. Across the road there are skyscrapers and as you walk towards the Manila Yacht Club you will discover an area of cafés and restaurants. It’s a unique small area, with live street entertainers and food sellers.
Pasay Seafood Market
This is a lively market near the Mall of Asia, positioned in short lanes where kiosks are stocked with prawns, lobsters, langoustines, crabs, mussels, and all manner of fish ranging from blue marlin tuna. There is a habit that you purchase what you want from these vendors and then take it to restaurants outside the market to prepare it to your satisfaction.
Last Words
The capital of the Philippines doesn’t always make the headlines for the right reasons, but if you want a bustling, understated metropolis, Manila is ready to test your preconceptions. Trip to Manila, sounds great? Plan your international getaway with AirlinesMap, and make your vacation in the Philippines, totally hassle-free. Bon Voyage!