A Manila vacation can be an enjoyable yet inexpensive one compared to other Asian destinations. The traffic may seem unbearable in the cities but the amount of history to be seen, and beauty in the outlying areas makes the wait to arrive with it. Despite its "grimy surfaces," Lonely Planet urges travelers to "discover" Manila's "friendliness and charm."Lonely Planet: Manila Overview According to Time Out, the city can be overwhelmingly "chaotic" at times, but it retains its multicultural "spirit" and "bubbling energy."Time Out: Manila Introduction
Manila Attractions
- Fort Santiago: At one time the "seat of Spanish military power," the fort is now a memorial to Philippine hero José Rizal, who was executed there.Lonely Planet: Fort Santiago
- Rizal Park: Home to various Rizal monuments, Wcities considers the park to be the "symbolic seat of the nation's heart and soul."Wcities: Rizal Park
- Intramuros: Once a "mighty European city" within Asia, its 16th century walls and gates still stand, providing a "strong sense of history" for those who visit.Lonely Planet: Intramuros
- San Agustin Church: The country's oldest church is a "mandatory destination" for travelers seeking landmarks of "great artistic and historical significance."Wcities: San Agustin Church
- Manila Cathedral: Rebuilt after World War II, the cathedral is known for its "graceful" cupola and "beautiful" stained glass.Lonely Planet: Manila Cathedral
- Araneta Center hosted the Thrilla in Manilla Boxing bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in October 1975. The Philippines was under Martial Law when the fight took place.http://boxrec.com/media/index.php/Thrilla_in_Manila
Mahalo Suggests
- If planning a trip, please see Manila Hotels and Manila Restaurants for additional information on where to stay and great places to eat.
- If landing at NAIA airport, taxis are available to local hotels. Drivers speak English but printing the Hotel Name and Address out is always advisable.
- Grab a hotel business card to keep in your pocket in case you get lost. Showing the card to locals will help them direct you back to your hotel.
Visit Manila Tourism Video
This video is from the Philippines Department of Tourism and is inviting people to visit Manila. The video features artistic shots of different places and activities in Manila. These include dancing, local culture, shopping, playing golf and several different places to eat. The original song that narrates the video also gives information on things to do and see while in Manila.
Natural Attractions
Visit these Natural attractions in the Philippines
Manila Shopping Malls
- Mall of Asia
- Glorietta Mall Makati City
- Greenbelt in Makati City
- Fort Bonafacio High Street Mall
Manila Tours
- InfoHub: Manila Tours
References
Fast Facts
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Country
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Language
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Population
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Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP)
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Country code
63
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Area code
2
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Time zone
Philippine Standard Time
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Average climate
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Fact:
Initial settlers in Manila were TagalogsBlurtit.com: Manila
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Fact:
Manila is derived from the name of a white-flowered mangrove plant called the "Nilad"
