Explore the Wonders of Manila: 8 Fascinating Experiences You Can't Miss

When it comes to traveling to the Philippines, people often think of the beautiful Palawan archipelago or the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, but few pay attention to the capital city Manila, which is full of interesting surprises. Just spend a day and night in Manila, and you'll discover the countless intriguing aspects of this city.

Embark on an Exciting Journey: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Manila

1. Jeepney Tour around the City

The moment you set foot in Manila, you'll be amazed by the vibrant and colorful jeepneys. While Vietnam has cyclos and Thailand has tuk-tuks, the Philippines' culture is intertwined with the iconic jeepney. Jeepney drivers showcase their limitless creativity, influenced by Spanish, Mexican, and American art, along with the unique and free-spirited artistic style of the Filipino people.

Jeepneys don't have fixed stops like our regular buses. To catch one, just stand at intersections, and the driver will pick you up when you wave. Jeepneys usually follow specific routes, charging 8php for the first kilometer. So, it's essential to know the route number beforehand to reach your destination efficiently.

2. Shopaholic's Paradise in Asia's Largest Shopping Havens

Forget Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur; Manila is the true home to a plethora of Asia's largest shopping centers. Names like SM Mall of Asia, Glorietta, Robinsons Place Mall, Newport Mall are the bold players where you can easily find fashion brands from the likes of H&M, Uniqlo, Forever21, Mango, Zara, and even high-end labels.

These shopping havens not only offer fashion but also bring you electronic and home decor stores, diverse dining options, entertainment, and cinemas. Plus, many places have exclusive tax refunds for tourists. Brace yourself; once you step into these malls, your cash and credit cards might just magically disappear within a day of retail therapy.

3. Explore the Historic Architecture of Intramuros

When the Spanish first arrived in the Philippines, they recognized the importance and constructed a massive defensive wall system covering 67 hectares, named Intramuros, meaning 'inside the walls.' Intramuros stands as a historical witness to the Philippines from 1521 to the present day. The construction of Intramuros spanned centuries, initially built with wood. By 1590, the first Spanish governor of Manila demolished the wooden walls and rebuilt them with sturdy stone, adding watchtowers and fortifications.

In addition to civil structures from the Spanish colonial era, such as churches, schools, hospitals, the Santiago Fort is the most imposing and resilient relic. Situated at the river mouth, north of the city, the fort was originally constructed with wood and earth. After its destruction in 1574, it was reconstructed using stone. Today, this complex is part of the government's preservation efforts and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Visit Manila American Cemetery and Memorial

This is the final resting place for 36,279 brave Filipino and American soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. The evenly arranged marble gravestones form a unique circular architectural ensemble within the vast 200-hectare cemetery. The stunning landscape and distinctive architecture depict the grandeur befitting the losses and sacrifices of these soldiers.

Inside the memorial area, designed with Sicilian marble, each wall bears the engraved names of the soldiers. The exquisite marble adds a touch of uniqueness that surpasses any other cemetery. Moreover, this is also the second-largest burial ground for American soldiers in the world, following only Normandy in France.

5. Witness the Sunset over Manila Bay

Located in the heart of the city, Manila Bay combines modern beauty with serene tranquility. Strolling along the bay, feeling the sea breeze, and witnessing the breathtaking sunset create unforgettable emotions.

Manila Bay boasts the famous Seaside Boulevard hidden behind the bustling Mall Of Asia shopping center. In the afternoon, locals and tourists gather on the boulevard to enjoy the fresh air and watch the sunset over the sea. The image of the sun slowly sinking into the ocean paints the sky in a vibrant red hue, as if some supernatural force is setting the heavens ablaze. The scenery at that moment is truly spectacular and not to be missed.

6. Indulge in Jollibee's Chicken Delight

Don't be surprised to find Jollibee fast-food joints not only dominating Manila but also spreading across the Philippines. The restaurant is a favorite not just for its delicious chicken but also for its budget-friendly prices. An average meal costs only about 50php, equivalent to 25,000 VND, leaving you fully satisfied. Therefore, Jollibee is beloved by the majority of locals, including workers, students, and more. Lunch and dinner hours witness a bustling crowd seeking these tasty treats.

7. Midnight Traffic Jam

Like other developing cities, Manila experiences daily and hourly traffic jams, regardless of day or night. With no subway or elevated trains, all vehicles share the same congested roads. Here, you might spend almost an hour covering a 3km distance within the city. So, keep an eye on the clock if you have time-sensitive tasks or need to catch a flight.

Although the frustrating traffic is a given, locals are quite accustomed to it and sometimes even find it amusing to introduce this aspect to tourists. In urgent situations, opt for a motorcycle, similar to Vietnam, leveraging its compact and flexible nature to ensure you reach your destination on time.

8. Immerse Yourself in the Sound of Freedom

In a music-loving country like the Philippines, you can encounter skillful roving bands almost anywhere. From upscale shopping centers to airports, streets, and eateries, the familiar tunes resonate. Typically, these bands consist of 3 to 4 members, including a lead singer. Everyone in the group plays at least one musical instrument.

Whether you're in Manila or traveling in the Philippines in general, it feels like every local here can sing, and sing exceptionally well. Music seems to be an indispensable part of daily life. Immersed in a blend of ancient yet modern, vibrant spaces, these unforgettable impressions will stay with you during your days of 'getting lost in Manila.'

By Tiny Duy

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour