Manila has more for the tourist than you think...

Manila Philippines

Manila is a huge bustling city that never seems to sleep. It is overflowing with cars, buses and trucks, honking horns and all driving four abreast in three lanes, which can be a bit intimidating at first, but somehow they know what is going on. Manila tends to grow on you the more time you spend in it. As with most places and sights in the world, first impressions are the most important and the first impression you receive of Manila is the humidity and humanity.

Stepping off the plane and out of the Nino Aquino International Airport you are hit by the thick dense air, the humidity is stifling. You soon build up a nice sweat, so make sure you travel in light clothes or change at the airport with the benefit of the air conditioning prior to exposing yourself to the humidity.

Once in the humidity the next sight you are subject to is the mass of people. This should not really be a surprise considering Manila is one of the most populated cities in the world. You are not allowed into Nino Aquino International Airport, unless you have a valid airline ticket. There is a fence that separates the arrivals and the mass of humanity. For obvious reasons it would be absolute chaos if anyone could go wherever they wanted inside the airport.

The smells and odours are all gracious enough to make you there friend, some are good, some well, you can probably do without. But that is what is so mysterious about Manila and what makes Manila so unique, it grows on you and before you know it, the things that once annoyed you become like a long lost friend that you enjoy having around.

Where is Manila?

Manila is the capital city of the Republic of the Philippines.

Manila History

• Spanish Colonial Period.

• The Philippine Revolution

• The Commonwealth Era

• The Japanese Occupation.

• Independent Philippines.

• The Marcos Era

• Present Manila History

Manila Attractions

The Nino Aquino International Airport is where international tourists arrive in the country so Manila is the entry and starting point for you to explore the numerous islands and regions that make up the Philippines.

Manila has a lot to offer the tourist, some Manila attractions you really should not miss are:

• Intramuros

• Fort Santiago.

• Rizal Park or Luneta Park

• National Museum of the Philippines

• Binondo/Chinatown

• Ongpin Street

• Malacanang Palace

• Manila Baywalk

• Manila Bay Sunset

• Shopping in Manila

• Paco Park

• Manila American Cemetery & Memorial

• Malate Church

• Quiapo Church

• Manila Cathedral

• San Agustin Church

• San Agustin Museum

• Greenbelt Park

• Coconut Palace

• Manila Zoo

• Cultural Center of the Philippines

• Star City

• Manila Ocean Park

Manila Accommodation

Manila City has a huge variety of accommodation to suit all travelers. If you are use to staying in 5 star hotels, than Manila has some of the best. Even if you are on a particularly tight budget, Manila has plenty of places for you to stay. Have a look here for more information on Manila Hotels.

Manila Airport

Whether you like it or not, when you arrive in Manila you will need to go through Manila Airport. Navigating your way through both arrivals and departures is not as difficult as many advise. Sure the security checks on departure can be annoying, but if you put it in perspective, your safety is worth the hassle.

When arriving, just take a deep breath and remember you are on holiday and this is all part and parcel of the Philippines. A tip on departing is, make sure you allow plenty of time to get through all the security checks.

Have a look here for all the information you need, to get you through Manila Airport.

Changing Money In Manila

Whether you have cash, travellers cheques or credit cards all can be used in the Philippines. There are definitely advantages and disadvantages depending on your preference. Have a look here for information on what is the best to exchange.







Getting around Manila

The easiest way to get around Manila Philippines is either by Taxi or jeepney.

Taxis have the ability to take you exactly where you want to go, direct to the door so to speak. Don’t be afraid to ask the taxis driver to use the meter, if he refuses to use the meter, jump out of his taxis and call down another, trust me there are plenty of them. If you feel compelled to pay a set fare, ensure you set the price before you start your trip.

Jeepney’s
These charismatic vehicles are everywhere, not just in Manila but all over the Philippines.