|
The Magic of Philippines in Manila
Visiting the Philippines would not be complete without visiting its capital
Manila. Known for being a hive of activity and a galore of attractions, it
is of little wonder the city attracts thousands of tourists in Asia.
Manila and the rest of the Philippines were former Spanish and American
colonies. During World War II, it was occupied by the Japanese before being
handed back to the Americans. Manila has gone though trials and tribulations
and their resilience has brought about a mix of culture and traditions that
provide an added attraction to tourists.
Certainly, Manila is different from the other cities and metropolitan in
South East Asia. This is why tourists find visiting Manila to be an
enriching experience which they would cherish their whole lives. One thing
is for sure like any other cities in this region, Manila offers interesting
shopping opportunities for tourists.
Manila is located in the tropics although it is sometimes affected by the
tropical storm and hurricanes which come its way. Other than that, you can
expect sunshine all year round.
You will certainly have to take a flight into the Manila’s Ninoy Aquino
International Airport if you are outside the Philippines. The airport is one
of the 60 busiest airports in the world.
In Manila, you would not have a problem in terms of language as most of the
locals speak English. A tip, when travelling around the city, you must be
careful when asking for directions. If you need to take a taxi, it is wise
you ask them first of how much it is likely to cost and take the shortest
route available. If not, you may be duped into paying more then you are
required to.
Interesting visit
There are many things to do when you get down at the airport as there are
many places to visit. From there, you can go to Chinatown, Fort Santiago,
Intramuros, Malacanang Palace, Manila Baywalk, Manila Zoological and
Botanical Garden, National Museum of the Philippines, Plaza Miranda and San
Sebastian church and so on.
Besides this, there are a host of other places where you can visit.
Intramuros is the old Manila built by the Spanish during colonial days which
means “within the walls”. Literally, it refers to a fort built by the
colonisers in the 16th century to protect themselves from attacks.
The Malacanang Palace is the Philippine President’s official residence and
every day it receives thousands of visitors. Similar to the White House, it
is a recognisable landmark in the Philippines.
From old
cities to museums
Fort Santiago is one of the ancient remnants left by Rajah Sulayman of the
Sulu kingdom, which was later taken over by the Spanish. It is known as the
place of execution of Philippines freedom fighter, Jose Rizal.
Chinatown is the best place to shop for jewellery, home altar accessories or
precious jewels. Riding a horse carriage is the best way to tour Chinatown.
As with old cities, there are many museums to visit like the Bahay Tsinoy,
Intramuros Light and Sound Museum, Main National Museum, Padre Burgos Street
Museo ng Maynila (Museum of Manila) and the Pre-War Army-Navy Club Bldg.
Others include Rizal Park, Museo Pambata (Children's Museum), formerly the
Pre-War Elk's Club Bldg., Rizal Park and the National Museum of the Filipino
People.
Although the Philippines is well known for being a country which practices
Roman Catholicism, other religions including Buddhism and Islam are also
practised here. Hence, it is of little surprise you can also find other
places of worship like the Seng Guan Temple. The Seng Guan Temple is a
Buddhist temple where, on the upper floor, tourists will find a mural
illustrating Buddha’s life. Spending a day in Manila would not be enough as
there are many places to visit.
Book Manila Hotels here |
