The Philippines is well known for its pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes — and that’s what most leisure travelers head to the country for — but the cities, like Manila, can be worth exploring too, even if only for a short time.
About 85 percent of international visitors to the Philippines enter or leave the country through Manila’s international airport. These travelers often stay one or two nights to minimise the risk of missing connecting flights, because Manila has four airport terminals and getting between them is not easy in peak traffic periods. So including a day to take a city tour of Metro Manila makes a lot of sense, and will enable the traveler to learn more about Philippine culture and the historical significance of Manila.
However, Manila, like many other cities has its risks. There is always a small risk of running into bag snatchers or pickpockets when walking around areas frequented by tourists. Therefore it’s a good idea to use an anti-theft backpack when touring cities like Manila. Pacsafe and Travelon are amongst the most reliable brands of anti-theft backpacks, and big retailers like Luggage Direct usually carry them in a range of different sizes.
Here are 8 places worth visiting for first time travelers to the Philippines
INTRAMUROS
A walled city coexisting with Manila’s modernity, Intramuros is a picture-perfect tourist destination. This was considered as a prestigious capital of the Far East during the Spanish era which is why the structures in Intramuros will take you back in time. Here, you will find various locations that are historically significant, so if you want to learn about the Philippines’ past, Intramuros is a good place to start. You can also take lots of memorable photos amid stunning backgrounds as you walk around.
RIZAL PARK
This is where the iconic Rizal Monument stands and where the Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal, was shot. Having a photo by the monument is considered a ‘must-do’ by Filipinos when they explore Manila for the first time. Other than the monument, Rizal Park, locally known as Luneta, is a popular place for families and groups of friends. Live like a local and visit Rizal Park on a weekend, bring a mat with you, and enjoy an afternoon picnic while gazing at the Manila sunset. There are small food stalls around the place where you can buy snacks and refreshments. Don’t forget to clean as you go!
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES
The National Museum of the Philippines operates three major museums within the area of Rizal Park, each one holding valuable pieces of the country’s overall cultural identity. These museums are the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, and National Museum of Natural History. Also within the scope of the National Museum of the Philippines is the Planetarium, a dome-like structure that showcases audio-visual presentations of the solar system and exhibits of the Philippines’ myths and beliefs about outer space.
METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF MANILA
What was initially a museum for showcasing artworks from foreign lands became a museum for boasting local pride. The Metropolitan Museum of Manila has different forms of visual art, from paintings to art installations made up of everyday items. These are created by local artists, both the well-known and rookies, ranging from traditional mediums like oil and watercolor to contemporary styles like photo manipulations. This museum also holds historically valuable artifacts such as jewelries, pottery, and old money. If you enjoy looking at unusual works made by skilled individuals of all ages, this is a perfect place for you.
BINONDO
This is the Chinatown of Manila and it’s popular because of its food tour. Binondo is also the oldest Chinatown in the world. If you want to give the food tour a try, allot around half a day for it. There will definitely be lots of walking under the sun so remember to take water with you to keep hydrated. You will be having lots of stops in small restaurants around Binondo where you can have a gastronomic experience with authentic Chinese cuisines and delicacies.
BAYWALK
This is a popular two-kilometer promenade for jogging as well as a good spot to watch the Manila sunset. You can find al fresco restaurants and cafes here where you can enjoy good bonding moments over snacks, drinks, and sometimes even live performances. Though adjacent to the bustling thoroughfare of Roxas Boulevard, strolling along Baywalk is still a fun thing to do.
SM MALL OF ASIA
It’s shop-til-you-drop at SM Mall of Asia. At 4.2 million square feet, this mall is one of the largest in the world. Housing international and local brands from apparel to dining, SM Mall of Asia is a good hangout place if you want to indulge in shopping and eating out. You can even have fun in their mini-amusement park by the bay or enjoy an al fresco dining experience while basking at the view of the sunset.
CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES
Living up to its name, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (or more commonly known as the CCP) is a venue for international theatrical performances, local productions, and the annual screening of the famous indie movie festival, Cinemalaya. You can also find exhibitions here once in a while, but on a typical mundane day, you can jog around its iconic fountain. Lots of people enjoy this activity during late afternoons when the sun is just about to set.
All of this is a easily accessible from Manila. So, don’t think of this city as simply a stopover. Remember that its a destination in itself with something for everyone!
Did You Enjoy This Post? PIN IT So Others Can Too!
Photos from Pixabay
No Comments