Like most bustling, major cities, Manila often gets overlooked in favour of the Philippines’ white sand coastlines and rolling hills. Many use it as a transport hub for getting into and out of the country, without giving the city the attention it deserves.
Luckily, a recent spate of Manila vacation packages here and in the USA are slowly encouraging more people to take a few days to explore this intriguing city before bouncing off to sandier shores.
So here are a few tips on what to do and see in Manila for first-timers, if you’re one of those said adventurous people…
Check out the Churches
Manila is full of architectural gems, most of which also happen to be places of worship. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the ornate exterior of the Manila Cathedral, or the Gothic spires of San Sebastian, but they definitely do make for some great holiday photos.
Other sights of note include the Baroque-style Malate Church, the 16th Century bell tower at the Binondo Church and the world-famous statue of Jesus at the Quiapo Church.
Eat Some Adobo
Although there may be other newer, more exciting dishes to try in Manila these days, adobo is still an old classic and one that you will find on almost every traditional menu in the city.
Adobo is the unofficial national dish of the Philippines and is stew-like in its consistency. Meat (most often pork or chicken), seafood or vegetables are slow-cooked in vinegar, soy sauce and garlic to produce a rich, deep dish that is usually served over rice.
Although they’re both chain restaurants, The Aristocrat and Adobo Connection serve a classic tried-and-true version of this hearty dish.
Ride a Jeepney
Jeepneys are a jeep-bus hybrid and one of the cheapest forms of public transport in the city. You won’t be able to miss them hurtling down the street, as they are painted in bright, gaudy colours and are often crammed with people inside (and sometimes even on the roof).
You should experience this form of transport at least once during your time in Manila, but it’s best to brush up on your jeepney etiquette before you do.
Take a Siesta
Manila’s hot and humid weather means that most locals will take a siesta in the steamiest part of the day (after lunchtime, between noon and 1.30pm). Don’t be surprised to see people snoozing in deck chairs on the street, drivers curled up in their tuk-tuks or even construction workers laying down mats in empty buildings to sleep in.
Most shops and cafes will close during siesta time, so you may as well do as the locals do and head back to your accommodation for a nap. You’ll find yourself much more refreshed for an afternoon of sightseeing if you do.
Enjoy the Sunset from a Rooftop Bar
More and more rooftop bars are popping up all over the city, although some offer better views – and drinks – than others.
For amazing 360-degree views that include Manila Bay and City Hall, head to the Sky Deck View Bar at the Bayleaf Hotel. They offer al fresco dining from 5pm and an extensive happy ‘hour’ (that runs from 5.30pm to 9pm) daily.
If you want something a little more laidback, several of the bars and restaurants on the top floor of the Mall of Asia shopping centre also offer good views of the skyline.
Sing Some Karaoke
Karaoke is a favourite pastime of most Filipinos, who love nothing better than belting out a song in a ‘videoke’ bar of an evening.
If you’re brave enough to have a go yourself, then you can always join an open mic night at several of the city’s bar-and-grills (where you’ll often be accompanied by a house band/guitar player/pianist).
Or if you’d prefer to keep your singing abilities to yourself, then you can hire a private booth (like we did in Malaysia) at places like Music 21 or Red Box.
Take a Stroll around Chinatown
The Binondo district of Manila is said to be the world’s oldest Chinatown and as such, it is home to a plethora of historic buildings, vast Asian supermarkets and delicious Chinese restaurants.
As well as soaking up the buzzing atmosphere of Binondo’s streets, you must be sure to tr some delectable Chinese specialities such as pork and leek dumplings, stuffed pancakes and lumpia (a type of spring roll similar in design to Malaysian popiah).
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