Joanna James
Most people know the Philippines as a country where they eat the strangest food – which is partly true. But there's so much more to Manila, it is a blossoming city with great people and culture.
This should probably be how you start your trip to Manila – Intramuros is a remnant of the country's colonial past. Previously known as the 'Walled City'; Intramuros was once a stronghold of the Spanish colonists. Its walls were a refuge for the wealthy but today this historical area has been renovated and opened to the public. The streets are cobbled and the Spanish-style houses very pleasing to the eye. Some of the houses have been converted into museums and churches for people to visit. Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church are among a few of the places you should check out.
Like any Chinatown in the world, you'll find many amazing and cheap eateries at every turn. Binondo is a great place to discover historical sites in the city as well as to try out some of the city's favourite Chinese food like dim sum, roast duck and Filipino-Chinese cuisines like Mami, lumpiang Shanghai and hopia. There are a few tours that take you on a guided visit of some of Binondo's best restaurants and historical sites.
When you're in the city be sure to take at least one evening stroll along the Baywalk on Roxas Boulevard to catch the beautiful golden Manila sunset. There are many restaurants and bars to sit down and take a break and enjoy the views while sipping on a delicious cocktail. There are also a few rooftop bars which offer spectacular views of the city as well.
Rizal Park is one of the largest urban parks in all of Asia – it spans nearly 60 hectares and is a great place to walk about and enjoy an evening. The park is dedicated to one of the country's most celebrated heroes; Jose Rizal. The park holds a great significance for Filipinos and was the location where Jose Rizal was executed by a Spanish firing squad. There are two gardens on the premises; one a Japanese style garden and the other Chinese.
Located quite close to Somerset Olympia Makati which is one of the best Makati luxury apartments, Manila Ocean Park is a huge favourite with the city's children. But having said that many grown-ups visit the ocean park for the amazing fish spa where little fish nibble away at the dead skin on your feet; it feels really good.
No trip is complete without at least a little shopping; Divisoria 168 is the shopping mall that locals go to buy anything and everything. It's a wonderland for the bargain seeker and a fun place to just people-watch. Shoes, clothes, stationary supplies, food and electronics; you can find anything here – for dirt cheap.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
