Manila, Philippines — Things to Do
Sightseeing in Manila
The cosmopolitan capital of the Philippines, there is plenty to see and do in Manila. The city is full of history and this is evident in the ruins that still stand from the original capital of the Spanish East Indies which was founded in 1571, Intramuros, located on the south bank of the Pasig River. The surrounding area is full of performing venues, art galleries, shops and restaurants, making it a popular tourist Mecca. History buffs will also love the National Museum which exhibits sunken treasure from one of the Manila galleons dating back to 1600, while the Ayala Museum educates visitors on the history of the Philippines. Manila sustained heavy damage during WWII, but has since rebuilt itself into a major tourist destination in Asia.
Travelers should note that many Filipinos are Catholic, evident in the multitude of ornate churches, such as the San Agustin Church which dates back to 1606 and has survived invasions and world wars. Manila has one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, where one can find exotic Chinese goods and delicious cuisine.
The Malacanang Palace, which is the residence of the Head of State is also worth a visit, while the American Cemetery and Memorial honors those who died during WWII and is a peaceful retreat from the buzz of the city.
Shopping in Manila
Manila has just about every kind of shop, boutique and specialty store under the sun, including literally hundreds of shopping malls scattered across the city. With three large signature shopping malls in the Metro Manila area that form part of the world's top 10 largest malls, it's not hard to see why Filipinos are passionate about their shopping and tourists will enjoy sharing their love of consumables. Head to the monstrous Mall of Asia on Roxas Boulevard for the ultimate shopping experience, though a bit of carbo-loading beforehand will help weary shoppers maintain their stamina as trying to conquer the entire mall in one day is virtually impossible. Boasting an IMAX theater, science museum and an entire entertainment center, this mall is an attraction in itself. Other shopping malls worth a visit are the SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, Shangri-La Plaza, and The Podium. Head to Greenbelt 4 and 5 located in Ayala Center for big brands like Mango and Armani, while Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City is also lined with boutique stores, perfect for that little black dress or signature piece to add to your wardrobe. A trip to Southeast Asia wouldn't be complete without a little bargain shopping and haggling and travelers should pay the Divisoria Market a visit, where everything and anything from cookware and handicrafts to clothing and toys can be bought at astonishingly low price - but beware of pickpockets. There are other interesting markets located at St. Francis Square, Greenhills Shopping Center and Tiendesitas.
Manila Nightlife
The nightlife in Manila is among the most vibrant and exciting in Southeast Asia, with the requisite dose of sleaze of course. You'll find everything from bar strips to strip bars and everything in between on a night out in Manila. One thing is for sure, it will be a memorable experience!
Morato Avenue in Quezon City is a good place to start. Have dinner at one of the many restaurants before hitting a local bar or comedy club. The Hard Rock Café in the heart of the Malate district is always a good bet and with two levels, pool tables, and a stage, guaranteeing a really good night out.
Head to the Pasay City and Makati region to visit upscale girlie bars, or for a really good variety of nightlife, the Malate district of Manila where everything from bars, nightclubs and discos to karaoke clubs, gay clubs and lounges can be found. Most bars in Manila close around 2am, but some will stay open later.
Looking for live music? Head to 70s Bistro in Quezon City while the Hobbit House in Malate features live musicians performing in a very Tolkien-esque club. Or what could be more fun than partaking in a little karaoke? One of the favorite pastimes for Filipinos, there are numerous karaoke bars peppered throughout the city for travelers, tourists and just those passing through to enjoy a drink a sing along.
Eastwood city at Quezon City features a great selection of clubs, bars, cocktail lounges and discos to choose from, while Quezon Avenue's strip is brightly lit up after dark where all the bars and clubs are conveniently in a neat little row, and bustles with party goers, expats, tourists and ladies of the night. The Greenbelt region is another good place to head for a great choice of bars and clubs where revelers looking to dance the night away will have no problem finding a club to suit their taste. Remember, the legal drinking age in the Philippines is 18.
Those looking for a more cultured night out can see a performance by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra or the Philippine Chamber Choir, which perform at the Cultural Center of the Philippines or at the open-air Rizal Park Amphitheater.
The Manila has several theater companies, including the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), Tanghalang Philipino, and Repertory Philippines. You can also see performances by the Ballet Philippines, the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company, and the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group.
