Visiting Manila

Manila is a huge and busy city. It is the major city of the Philippines. Though crime, poverty, and pollution are problems that get a lot of press in the international news, this diverse and fast-paced metropolis has a lot ot offer open minded tourists looking for culture, sights, and entertainment.

A major attraction for many tourists is that English is widely spoken in the Philippines, especially Manila. This takes a lot of the worry out of getting around. Along with some of the modern trappings of a large city, Manila’s history is on display in some places. The city was once considered to be one of the most beautiful in Asia, but much of it was destroyed at the outset oof World War II.

Shopping in Manila is an institution. SM Mall Of Asia is perhaps the biggest in Manila, and offers everything from major brands to sleek and stylish boutiques. In Makati, Manila’s upscale district, Ayala Center is a vast shopping complex that takes hours, if not days, to walk through. It seems that some people come to Manila simply to shop. There are even hotels in or very near to most major malls.

The memories of Spanish colonial rule is not only evident in many of the Manila’s place names, but also in the Intramuros Quarter. This area contains the ruins of some old Spanish style buildings as well as churches and a couple of well manicured parks. Nearby the intramuros is Baywalk, a laid-back and fun part of Manila, known for its open air eateries and bars. At night, this place is packed with locals and there is live music as well as impromptu street performances.

There are large and old churches throughout Manila. A guidebook or tour guide can help travelers find one. Since Manila is a mostly catholic nation, there is usually a cathedral or basilica near most major areas.

Nightlife is quite energetic in Manila. Area like Makati and Ermita serve up world class nightclubs. There is also a well developed live music scene. Many songs are in English, making it seem like the party is actually taking place in California rather than Manila. In fact, Manila’s party and music scenes are, in many ways, comparable to LA’s.

Manila is such a vast city that every traveler will be able to find something that they are interested in. Whether history, shopping, food, or nightlife, Manila has it all, and has some of the world’s best.