Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a beautiful city with plenty of destinations–old and new–to offer travelers. If you have never been to Manila before, then you should consider this guide that will help you learn more about visiting this wonderful city.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of accommodation options in Manila, ranging from luxury hotels like the Diamond Hotel Philippines to more budget-friendly options like the Manila Hotel. There are also a range of hostels and individuality-run rentals if you’re interested in that type of experience.
What to Do
Travelers won’t want to miss Intramuros, the historic center of Manila that is commonly called the old “Walled City.” Rent a bike and ride around the historic streets filled with old architecture, statues and other remnants of Manila’s past. If you like to look at historical architecture, you will definitely want to take the time to stop at the Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago.And don’t forget to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, a large museum with both historical and contemporary artwork. If love to party, head to Poblacion in the evening and join a pub crawl tour where you can sample local drinks, food and party with like-minded travelers.
Beginners Tip & Tricks
The following are some beginners tips to keep in mind when visiting Manila:
- Bring something to cool yourself off with while you’re out and about, such as a hand-fan or a mini electric fan powered by batteries, since the weather is often warm
- Always pack an umbrella and bring it with you wherever you go; not only will it protect you from rain, but protect your skin from the harsh sun
- Expect things to start late–if you’re attending an event or a party, it probably won’t start exactly on time; in fact, if you’re heading to someone’s residential home, make sure you’re about 15 minutes late or they will view you as rude
