The city is home to marvelous churches and recreational parks, old forts and so much more. A lot of history and culture from the Spanish colonial era awaits those who come to Manila. The great thing about the Philippines is its ease of access and convenience, because southeast Asia is so well connected. And it is thought the world's first and oldest China Town originates in Manila. The Chinese community celebrate their Lunar New Year.
This is 15th century Spain, in all its glory. Yes, it's the Philippines but this historic part of the city still feels as Spanish today as it did all those centuries ago.
The walled city contains all the history of the Spanish colonial era in pristine condition. Many attractions described in this guide are found within the walls. A beautiful history and its architecture are waiting to be discovered by you.
The crumbling fort sits on the banks of the Pasig River in the old historic part of Manila. Built in the 1593 to protect Spanish interests in the far east. After decades of neglect, Fort Santiago is slowly being restored to its former self. The ground encloses the Intramuros Visitor’s Center, an art gallery and various shops and cafes. There are perfectly manicured gardens with fountains, with paths leading to an arched gate and lily ponds.
Dr José Rizal, Philippines national hero, there is the Rizal Shrine Museum in his honor, displaying his memorabilia. The museum also recreated his cell where he was incarcerated before being executed in 1896.
The 18th century has been preserved to date, for it to be a showpiece of Spanish accomplishment in the finest architecture. The cobbled streets are strewn with horse drawn carriages, free of other mechanized vehicles. You are left with the feeling of stepping back in time. The buildings and monuments, the shops and restaurants are all of that period.
There are a few marine parks in southeast Asia. The CoEx Aquarium in Seoul, South Korea immediately springs to mind: that center is a dream attraction for families, children just love it. That same sensational feeling is gotten from this park, as easily. It's very pleasing for families. Whilst Manila Ocean Park only represents about half as many marine species as the one in Seoul, what this park does have is a 220° curved tunnel walkway. Leaves quite an impression on you, it does.
The park, or complex, has the same setup as the one in Seoul, more or less. You have the main feature ― the marine fish and aquarium ― and the extra bits added on for good measure:
Really, it makes for a grand day out for everyone. Once you walk into the complex, you'll know there will be a lot of enjoyment. One thing that does separate this attraction from its ilk is their Trails of Antarctica Penguin's exhibit and Christmas Village. The exhibit walks you through a representation of the Humboldt penguin's home world.
The village happens to be an adventure zone for families. Both are relaxing and stimulating for all ages.
Partly the attraction of this complex, for us, was the educational aspects of it. Throughout the day there are a number of screenings you can sit in on and learn about the marine and wildlife, in general.
The Roman Catholic Church was completed in 1607 and remains to be the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Standing for over 400 years and surviving WW2 the church now celebrates being a UNESCO World Heritage site.
San Agustin looks gray and dreary from the outside but inside, it opens up into one great magnificent expanse. It makes a splendid reminder of the intricate architecture of the Intramuros period. Even if the building has no religious value to you, we strongly suggest you visit anyway. Step inside. The beauty that has been carved on the pillars and ceilings is remarkable, as are the hanging chandeliers.
In fact, there are four other churches, including San Augstin that have been given UNESCO World Heritage site status, build in the Spanish colonial era. Collectively known as the Baroque Churches of the Philippines. They are:
UNESCO status ensures these churches will be preserved for future generations, no matter the expense. That's vital for the Filipino way of life: because there are literarily hundreds of churches across the Island, each one playing its part.
A park developed on the south side of the Pasig River to help improve the city's environment and ecosystem. The park has over 50 different varieties of trees and 8000 ornamental flowering plants. A small park but all the same the park has often been referred to as Manila's "last lung" it's a breath of fresh air for the city. The park has maintained paths and walkways leading to a Koi fish pond, a bridge and the riverside walk.
It has the perfect setting for peaceful relaxation to enjoy the surrounding woodland and wildlife. Pack a picnic, a blanket and some cold drinks, and wander off. Find an idyllic spot to forget about the city.
Every capital city shouldn't be without its own Chinatown, and thankfully Manila isn't. You come to Chinatown ― any Chinatown ― for two reasons: the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations, and the food. That's it, no other reason. Back home you may have a bar or pub crawl? Here, it's the same idea but with food instead of alcohol. There are bars of course but it's really all about the food.
One popular dish throughout Manila's Chinatown is the Pork Maki soup. The meat is tender, swimming in the bowl of noodles. The vendor we were at offered a seafood (shrimp) alternative, which may appeal to non-meat eaters. Dong Bei Dumplings are another firm favorite. You'll come across quite a few vendors rolling out the dough there and then filling the dumplings with cooked chopped pork and seasoning.
Delicious. Just be sure you get the soy-based dip as well, and you will want to purchase two boxes. One box isn't going to be enough.
Strolling around Chinatown you will encounter other delights your palate will coerce you into trying. That's a good thing, don't hold back. The Filipino take on pure Chinese cuisine is a culinary surprise for every foreign traveler to Manila.
Well worth visiting and early evening is the best time because the streets are lit up with neon lights, and there is a light party atmosphere.
Located close to the ancient Intramuros Walled City, the park has open ground covering 58 hectares. The open space you see was the Parade Ground opposite Roxas Boulevard. With such a size of park there are so many feature pieces we can't describe them all in such a short space. But what is of interest is the Rizal Shrine and the four gardens.
You will visit the park at some point during your visit to the old Intramuros walled city, it can't be avoided. It's our suggestion you take a tour of Intramuros so you do not miss anything. After all, it will take you a full day to move around to see everything.
Located in the same Intramuros walled city as the San Agustin Church, the Manila Cathedral is the main recognized Roman Catholic Church of the Philippines. The current Cathedral standing isn't the original. Over the centuries many buildings have been built to replace those lost to fire and natural disasters. The first Cathedral was built as far back as 1581, on the same site as today.
Inside the Cathedral there are a number of relics that are said to be sacred. Also, there is a collection of religious artworks or paintings that date back centuries.
There is an incredible history locked up in the Philippines and it can be released with a holiday to Manila. The exuberance of a modern metropolis hasn't tainted the historic city of Intramuros, not one bit. Throughout Asia there is history of uprisings against European colonization. Freedom fighters were born and heroes were made.
None are bigger and more important and prominent in human history than that of the Filipinos and their fight against Spanish rule. Come and holiday to Manila and be struck by the beautiful Baroque architecture and centuries old history.
PREVIOUS GUIDE
Hello, we are George and Elle Mae Melyre.
Over the years, amidst work and family life, we have traveled extensively throughout Asia. Any chance to briefly escape or properly holiday in our beloved Asian destinations is eagerly seized, motivated by the enduring dream of leaving behind the UK's dreary cold for tropical climes.