Top 11 reasons to visit Manila – An underappreciated gem

Locally referred to as Binondo, Manila's Chinatown was originally founded by immigrants from China who moved to the Philippines and converted to Roman Catholicism. With bargain shopping and authentic Chinese food, in modern-day Binondo is one of the most visited regions in Manila.

Philippines were ruled by the Spaniards for 300 years before it was invaded by the USA and ultimately gaining their freedom in 1946. The colonial Spanish influence can be clearly seen by observing some of the landmarks, museums and historic buildings that were built during the Spaniards rule of the country. These buildings have been preserved by the government as a way to acknowledge the Spanish reign of the country.

Manila is home to a vast variety of art galleries and museums that are funded by non-government entities and individuals. You'll find street art murals painted on walkways, under bridges and along street walls scattered all over Manila. Poets, singers, ballerina's and theatre actors from all over the Philippines gather to Manila, making it a great place to get an idea of how important creative arts is to the Philippines.

Manila is filled with second-hand shops, fashion stores, bargain stalls and the largest shopping complexes that the Philippines has to offer similar to Mall of Asia. In addition to the stores, the malls also have lots of other entertaining activities that you can enjoy like a large ice rink, IMAX cinemas and convention centres.

This is a good place to visit for an evening stroll while enjoying the local street food and street performers. Located close to the Philippines cultural centre and the American Embassy, the Manila Baywalk has a streak of palm trees that separate it from the bustling Roxas Boulevard. It's a great place to catch the sunset; a must see while visiting Manila.

Located in Tondo, this market offers accessories, clothing, handicrafts, fresh produce and is home to several street food vendors. The fashion items that can be found here are all fake and the vendors are happy to haggle and negotiate on a fair price. Using a tour guide to visit this market is advised as there is a high chance of getting lost if not!

Manila is the epicentre of the country for nightlife. The city is filled with pubs, nightclubs, bars that are open till the break of dawn and offer cheap food and drinks. Karaoke is one of Philippines favourite past times and something you should definitely try out.

Whether you're visiting for pleasure and looking for a budget hotel or visiting for business and looking for a furnished apartment, Manila has lots of choices when it comes to accommodation. Citadines Bay City Manila, one such example, is located close to the Mall of Asia and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Filipino's are known for their hospitality and generosity. If it's your first-time visiting Philippines then prepare yourself to how far people will go to lend a helping hand without asking for anything in return.

Whether you're visiting for a few days or staying for business, there's so much to do and see that you'll never get bored. From street to parks and museums to work out classes, there are lots to see and do while staying in Manila.

Lastly but not least one of the main reasons to visit Manila is its scrumptious meals with endless variety. From street food vendors to carinderia (food stalls) to fine dining restaurants, there is a huge variety of eateries to choose from. Pork or Chicken Adobo, balut and halo-halo are some of the Filipino dishes that you should definitely try out!