More than just an in-between when flying to the
Philippines’ beautiful beaches,
Manila is a buzzing metropolis with lots to offer. When visiting the country’s capital, expect to find beautiful historic spots, amazing sunset views, bang-for-your-buck shopping, and to-die-for culinary experiences.
Go back in time at the old city of Intramuros
Ask any local for tips on what to do in Manila, and usually you’ll get the same answer: Visit Intramuros. The historic ‘Walled City’ dates back to the Spanish occupation, when Intramuros was the colony’s centre, and walls were built to protect it from foreign invasions. Back in the day, only the wealthiest and most influential citizens resided here. Today, you can still revel in its old-world charm. Intramuros’ cobbled streets are lined with old
Spanish houses that have been restored and turned into museums, beautiful churches and parks, and eight different museums.
There’s so much to see, but in particular, you’ll have to visit historical sites like Fort Santiago (Intramuros’ citadel back in the day), the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church (which proudly stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), San Agustin Museum, and Casa Manila. Also, if you’re on the adventurous side, you can even opt to join a ghost tour.
Go on a food crawl around Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown
Ready your stomachs, because you’re in for a gastronomical adventure! Binondo is Manila’s Chinatown, where you’ll find quaint, affordable eateries at almost every corner. Here, you’ll get your fix of dim sum and roast duck, as well as your fill of Filipino-
Chinese favourites like lumpiang
Shanghai (egg rolls with meat, fish, and vegetables), mami (noodle soup), and hopia (bean-filled pastry).
You can opt to craft your own foodie itinerary, or join a food crawl like the Big Binondo Food Wok with Ivan Man Dy, who once toured culinary legend Anthony Bourdain around Manila. On the tour, you won’t just be exploring Binondo’s food scene, you’ll also get to learn about the town’s historical spots.
Get a breathtaking view of the Manila Bay sunset
There’s nothing quite like golden hour at Manila Bay. When the sun starts to set, make sure to stop and take in this world-renowned view while going on a leisurely stroll along the Baywalk on Roxas Boulevard. You also have the option to enjoy the scene over cocktails at a nearby al fresco bar or restaurant.
Explore Rizal Park
One of the top attractions in Manila, Rizal Park is just a short walk from Intramuros. It is one of Asia’s largest urban parks, and a favourite spot for Manila dwellers to relax on weekends. But more than just a bright, breezy place to hang out, Rizal Park is a historical site that holds a great significance for Filipinos.
The vast 58-hectare park is home is to the Rizal monument, which houses the remains of the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, at its base. Here, you can even visit the very spot where Rizal was executed by the firing squad; it’s marked by a life-size diorama illustrating his final moments. In addition, you’ll also find statues of many national heroes, two beautiful gardens (the Chinese Garden and the
Japanese Garden), and Manila’s very own point of origin, Kilometer Zero.
See your aquatic dreams come to life at Manila Ocean Park
The oceanarium is the Philippines’ very first world-class marine park, a cute date spot, and a frequently chosen venue for school trips. More than just a place to stop and stare at sea creatures behind glass, the amusement park has lots of exciting things for both children and adults to enjoy. Some of their most interesting attractions include feeding the penguins and learning to swim with a mermaid tail. My personal favourite, though, would have to be the fish spa. During the treatment, small fish nibble at your feet’s dead skin — doesn’t that just sound intriguing?
See more: Visit Manila's 7 best ramen restaurants
Source: Internet
