Buzz
Having wandered through various exotic lands, some merely destinations while others endearing and charming like Manila, it's hard to leave without a sense of longing.
Often, one falls in love with a place not for its attractions but for the tranquility it offers and the lessons it teaches. Manila may not boast extravagant amusements or vibrant shopping scenes, yet like falling for a person, its simplicity holds an inexplicable charm.
Essentials to remember when embarking on a solo trip to Manila
Getting around Manila: Insider's Guide
I arrived in Manila on a late March day, the sun casting golden hues like honey. If you're flying from Ho Chi Minh City and want a direct flight, there's one at 9:30 AM with Philippine Airlines for about $400 round trip per person. The flight is usually quiet due to low passenger numbers, but the airline staff are incredibly friendly and accommodating. The light meal served onboard is adequate, but if you're not accustomed to unfamiliar flavors, opt for the beef or pork options, which are tastier and easier to enjoy. The short 1 hour and 45-minute flight feels like a blink of an eye.
Upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, solo travelers may undergo thorough questioning at customs, while families may receive lighter inquiries. Expect questions about the duration of your stay, your occupation, and the purpose of your visit to the Philippines. Since English is widely spoken in the Philippines, independent travel is relatively easy for those who wish to explore at their own pace.
For transportation to the city center, consider taking a bus or taxi. Taxis can be expensive, so negotiate the fare before departure. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services, so be sure to inquire beforehand. Alternatively, if you're familiar with Grabcar, explore available discount codes for a more budget-friendly option.
Exchange your currency to pesos at the airport because many shops don't accept Visa or Mastercard. Jeepneys are a distinctive mode of transport here, colorful and adorned with whimsical designs. They can carry up to 23 passengers, so fares are quite cheap. You can experience a ride around the city for as little as $2, depending on the distance. The inconvenience is that Jeepneys are not allowed in the city center.
Choosing the right hotel for your Manila trip
Manila offers a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury, priced between $50 and $500. For a taste of luxury, consider staying at Shangrila At The Fort, a venue for many important events. The average price is around $300 per night, inclusive of a delectable buffet breakfast featuring both Asian and European dishes.
I chose this hotel for its excellent security measures. Before checking in, you have to go through rigorous security checks similar to those at the airport, including sniffer dogs, luggage scanning, and metal detectors. While it may take some time, it ensures absolute safety for our trip. Currently, the Philippines is facing a significant battle against drugs and rampant crime.
Exploring the Fun Side of Manila
Manila boasts captivating attractions such as the revered San Agustin Church, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and the historic Santiago Fortress, bearing the mark of Spanish colonial influence. Manila Ocean Park offers seal shows and musical fountain performances, although those who have seen similar shows in Hong Kong might find Manila's version less impressive due to its smaller scale.
=> Check out the latest 2023 ticket prices for Manila attractions HERE
Dining in Manila
Regarding dining, I find Filipino cuisine lacks a distinctive national identity as many dishes resemble those from Vietnam, Thailand, or China.
One dish worth trying is Halo Halo, a mixed dessert with coconut milk, ice cream, flan, and various beans. It's rich and creamy and available at many snack shops. I highly recommend the mixed salads at Salad Stop, perfect for health-conscious individuals looking to shed some pounds. Prices range from 230 to 350 pesos per dish, and you can customize your order as desired. Their vegetable smoothies are delicious too, but be prepared to queue as the place is often crowded.
For Chinese cuisine, Tai Din restaurant offers unique and beautifully presented dim sum dishes. Though the wait for a table can be long, the food is well worth it. International brands are prevalent in Manila, but be mindful that high-end stores have security measures akin to those in hotels, including baggage scanners. Despite this, the staff are friendly and accommodating, willing to provide directions or take photos for you.
Other considerations when traveling to Manila
Shopping centers here are similar to those in Vietnam, but what's noteworthy is their provision of comfortable rooms for breastfeeding mothers, complete with cozy sofas. Sidewalks are also wheelchair-friendly, reflecting a high level of civility.
I admire the commitment to cleanliness and environmental protection here. Most stores use paper bags, eateries serve food in recyclable containers, and trash bins are segregated. Littering is rare, and sanitation workers diligently maintain cleanliness, setting a commendable example for us all. Even hotels utilize environmentally friendly materials and convey meaningful messages about conservation.
Despite ongoing construction, Manila ensures pedestrian safety with well-established safety measures. Walking and cycling are encouraged, with many resting areas offering bicycle rentals upon request. The climate resembles Saigon, with temperatures reaching around 33 degrees Celsius. Carrying an umbrella can help alleviate the heat.
While Manila may not boast the youthful vibrancy of Singapore, the modern hustle of Hong Kong, the serene tranquility of Laos, or the seasoned tourism of Thailand, Myanmar's ancient charm, it offers a unique sense of peace and friendliness that resonates with me.
People here are incredibly friendly; almost everyone you meet greets you with a smile and affectionate phrases like 'Hi Mom' or 'Hi Dad.' While unusual at first, it's akin to a warm greeting in this city. Manila is like a vibrant painting, blending modernity, youthfulness, antiquity, and tranquility.
With familiar flavors like fried rice, sour soup, and stir-fries reminiscent of home-cooked meals, dining at Elias Restaurant in Bonifacio High Street offers a comforting experience at an affordable price. For a quick taste of Filipino cuisine, try Bon Chon Chicken, where the crispy and spicy fried chicken bursts with flavor. The absence of chili or tomato sauce on the side allows you to savor the spicy crunchiness of the chicken, followed by its gradually melting sweetness.
Overall, prices in Manila are relatively low compared to other capital cities, so you need not worry about breaking the bank. Waking up to the cool morning mist and the gentle rustle of wind amidst the city's greenery, immersing oneself in the peaceful yet bustling atmosphere, one can't help but feel a sense of serenity knowing that they're inhaling air from a place far different from home.
There are few motorcycles on the streets; most vehicles are cars. Despite ongoing road construction, traffic congestion is minimal, with drivers rarely honking, and pedestrian crossings are always prioritized.
Strolling through the narrow streets, wandering through the slums, I noticed that many Filipinos, like myself, are still poor but their consciousness is growing richer. Walking along the coastline, listening to the gentle sounds of life in this archipelago, a place prone to natural disasters, fills me with a peculiar sense of peace.
By day, Manila is like a princess in golden attire, but at night, it becomes mysteriously enchanting. With few streetlights, the city exudes an eerie and captivating allure. Filipino women are sharp and robust, exuding a natural Western confidence yet retaining a hint of Eastern modesty, which is incredibly charming. My companions couldn't stop praising the beauty of the women here, whose global beauty accolades make me feel a tinge of envy.
After a tiring day exploring Manila, why not visit Brewery At The Palace for some tropical cocktails and listen to the lively tales from the bartenders? The female DJs may not dress provocatively, but their music is fantastic, and beware, their smiles might just steal your heart!
All these experiences make Manila a place to love and find joy in life. So, young ones, dare to venture out and experience a place with all your senses. Don't just go to a place because everyone else has been there; it's a pity and a waste of time.
Go wherever you want, choose the place you love to go – just like I chose Manila for my short trip and ended up leaving with regret, longing, and occasional thoughts of the sunshine there, promising myself to come back many more times in the future.
Pro tip: You can buy tickets from Philippine Airlines or opt for layovers with budget-friendly tickets from Malaysia Airlines. You can purchase directly or through agents. For accommodation, check prices on Booking.com.
When buying gifts, opt for chocolates from Nuts About Candy stores in shopping centers, or Polvoron cakes and dried fruits from airport shops for affordable yet delicious options. If you want even cheaper options, stroll through the streets and buy from small stores, but remember to haggle to avoid overpaying.
Choose your destination, pick your path – just as I did when I chose Manila for a short getaway, only to leave with a twinge of regret, a pang of longing, and the occasional memory of its radiant sunshine, promising myself many return trips in the future.
Posted by: Lâm Huyền Nguyen
Keywords: Insights and tips for traveling Manila independently
