In the northern Philippines, tucked away on the east shore of Manila Bay, is an urban haven that mixes the old with the new. It’s is a city whose rich past informs an even richer present. Considered a “global city,” Manila is a center for the arts, science, commerce and tourism – a beautiful metropolis with a vibrant culture and, to my immense relief, some good brew down at the pub.
Manila, or Maynila as the locals call it, is an enormous, ethnically diverse urban center. One of sixteen cities that comprise the National Capital Region called Metropolitan Manila, this isn’t just any old town. Aside from being the capital of the Philippines, it’s also the seat of national government and home to the busiest port in the country and the oldest university in Asia. And did I mention Manila’s the most densely populated city on the planet? Well, it is.
Here are four things that make this city absolutely incredible:
Manila the Melting Pot
Historically, Manila has accommodated a wide variety of ethnic groups. In addition to the (dwindling) native Filipino population, Manila is inhabited by Spanish, Chinese, American, Latin, Malay and Indian peoples. The country prides itself on its diverse and resilient culture, which has emerged through a history of occupation, liberation, and independence. Quiapo (one of sixteen areas inside Manila) alone contains a church for the Roman Catholics, a temple in Chinatown for the Chinese Buddhists, and a Mosque for the Muslims. Cathedrals in Manila are among the most beautiful in Asia, so take a short detour to San Sebastian Church (the only one in Asia built entirely out of steel!) and Manila Cathedral, the oldest church in the Philippines.
Sights to See
While you’re in Manila, book a walking tour with one of the most sought-after tourist guides and socially influential personalities in the country: Carlos Celdran. He’ll take you on a witty, uncensored, and unforgiving tour of the walled city of Intramuros. If you have enough time to spare, take a tour of Corregidor Island, a rocky island off the coast of Manila Bay that pays homage to the Filipino, American, and Japanese soldiers who fell there during the war. You can also visit the National Museum of the Philippines, home to multiple collections of historical Filipino art and artifacts. Lastly, don’t miss the Metropolitan Museum at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, featuring an astonishing gold collection with pieces that rival today’s most intricate jewelry.
While there, you’re certain to catch a glimpse of the Philippines’ trademark transportation – the Jeepney.
Food, Hotels, and Relaxation
After all the sightseeing, enjoy a fine dining experience at the quaint Café Illustrado. I could go on and on about all the food there, but to make a long menu short, you’ll most definitely want to taste the homemade Sampaguita Ice Cream! This frozen delight, made from the Philippines’ national jasmine flower, is only available at this restaurant! If you’re not feeling flowers, though, head over to Binondo, site of the best Chinese food in Metro Manila. Or just grab a cup of coffee or tea at one of the numerous cafés sprinkled throughout the city. Try the native coffee, Kapeng Barako, if you need a caffeine kick.
Planning on winding down after a tiring day of sightseeing and food finding? There are plenty of hotels along Roxas Boulevard, each with a stunning view of the famous Manila Bay sunset. They’ll be more than happy to accommodate you for as many nights as you can stay. Check in at the most inexpensive hotel in the city and you’ll still get a taste of the hospitality Filipinos are known for.
Night Life
Manila is a massive city with a massive population, and its nightlife is commensurately booming. The old district Malate is known for its bars and pubs, which attract big tourist and expat crowds with the familiar taste of good, cold beer. Better try the nation’s pride, San Miguel Beer, while you’re out for a drink. And don’t leave without sampling the locals’ version of a nice cold bottle of beer – Beer Below Zero. It’s a popular Filipino take on the ice-cold beer craze, in which beer is stored and then served at a temperature literally below zero degrees Celsius.
If you’re lucky, you might hear word about an underground indie gig, a spoken word session, or an interesting art exhibit.
Unfortunately, going to the Philippines can’t always be for fun. If you’re on a business trip to anywhere in Metro Manila, make sure to take a day off and tour this historic city. It’ll satisfy your thirst for history and culture while delivering a fun and unforgettable evening. From the cathedrals to the cafés, there’s always something to do or see in Manila.
Are you ready to embrace all that Manila has to offer? Or maybe you’ve been there and have a few sight-seeing suggestions to share. Make sure to leave a comment below!
I didn’t go to Manila but I went to Palawan. I highly recommend tourists to go there too because it’s really raw nature that you can’t really find elsewhere. Although I find it odd that Palawan was full of Americans. I guess it really was a tourist spot. Nevertheless, this country is really beautiful and underrated. I agree that it’s very rich in culture and you will really enjoy immersing yourself in it, no matter how odd you think some of the cuisine is.
Manila is mesmerizing especially at night. But if you’re looking for some R&R, go to the provincial areas instead of the city. This place is nowhere near relaxing.?
This place has its perks and I love it. My favorite would be the food that’s a mix of everything.
Intramuros was amazing for taking pictures. I love the Spanish Colonial era vibe the place has.?
Philippines is a stunning country, my only issue is that when you’re foreign, some locals (and pickpockets) may take advantage of you. This isn’t just in the Philippines though but in other part of Asia as well like China. I suggest trying to avoid buying from places like gift shops or souvenir shops because it can get quite overpriced even with the exchange rate. I also suggest that if you have a friend who lives here, ask them to go with you when you’re shopping for local goods.
Asian countries are quite common with taking advantage of you whenever you shop for souvenirs. You really have to know where to buy.
I wanted to buy lots of cheap presents when I went here and a couple of my pinay friends told me we should go to Divisoria. My goodness, it was crazy.
Manila was a lot like Thailand but I liked Manila better. People spoke better English and we didn’t have a hard time navigating the streets.
I think this article focused too much on the city part but the fun is outside of the city. I went to Boracay and the nightlife was radical. I also think that their beaches are awesome compared to other countries.
Manila sure is a beautiful place. except for the poverty, traffic, pollution, corruption, crime and bunch of stuff. I suggest going to provinces instead and actively avoid major cities in the Philippines.
I never tried their local beers, but I heard so much about it. The Philippines has one of the best beer in the world. I will travel to the Philippines just to drink beer. Hahahaha ?