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 think it’s a beautiful city. “Most densely populated” means it’s very crowded, tho. But I guess that’s where the fun is. Also, from what I learned, Filipinos’ fascination about everything white’s crazy! Filipinos’ seems to be everywhere, too, especially here on the US! All in all, I believe Manila’s an exciting place and their people are fun.
Intramuros is the testimony of the Spanish colonial influence that impacted the Philippines profoundly. It makes Manila different from other cities in Southeast Asia. A fusion of eastern and western culture virtually almost anywhere you look. The only problem in the capital city is the traffic and the beggars living in streets or slums area. You’ll also find waterways clogged with filth and garbage.
I remembered a fellow student in college who is a Filipina, and she’s so sweet and friendly. She said she grew up and studied in Manila, but was born in the southern regions. I thought they were not that bright, but the way she speaks with confidence and clarity, she is on par with native English speakers. She’s one intelligent girl! (Which explains the scholarship grant she had.) She said that Manila is like the dream city for those who are in the poorer provinces, and many seek opportunity there that makes the city crowded. And, man! Isn’t she a hottie!?
I never thought that the Philippines, and Manila for that matter, has so much more than slums and typhoons and monsoon floods or crazy politicians. The news here about the country is all about disasters and politics that they often bury the beautiful side of this place. This article is very informative and will help or encourage us to learn more about this city and all its cultural and historical richness.
I have friends in Laguna and their hotsprings are so relaxing. Would choose that over Manila anytime.
I thought I’d feel out of place in this country but I was wrong. Met tons of friends here and I really hope I could stay longer.
Locals are insanely polite and they don’t really ask you for anything in return. Not only that, when you ask them something, they’re smiling at you and even if you’ve spend more than 10 minutes trying to get the directions right, some of them would even accompany you if they had the time.
Because of work, I had to travel here and stay here for a year and I’ve learned to fall in love with the culture of this country. I think it’s the people that make the experience of staying here.