Manila in a nutshell
Manila is a city of extreme contrasts. Some travelers suggest skipping the Philippine capital entirely, arguing it lacks the polish western tourists expect. Others call it the "Pearl of the Orient," claiming its appeal is widely overlooked. If you are traveling through the Philippines, here is why you should consider giving Manila a fair shake.
Churches and history
Manila often takes heat for its gridlocked traffic, political volatility, and smog. However, specific neighborhoods offer a deep look into the local past. The historic colonial district, known as Intramuros, holds the city's most significant landmarks, including a high concentration of churches. The San Agustin Church, dating back to 1589, is the oldest religious structure in the country. Its earthquake-resistant baroque architecture earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. For a deeper dive into national history, head to Fort Santiago, which houses a museum dedicated to José Rizal, the Philippine national hero. If you enjoy cultural institutions, you will likely spend time at the National Museum of Natural History and the Ayala Museum for a look at pre-Hispanic history. For something more unconventional, the Marikina Shoe Museum displays 800 pairs of shoes once owned by the former First Lady.
A cultural melting pot
The capital serves as a crossroads for a diverse range of cultures and ethnicities. A prime example is the Chinese Cemetery, built in 1843 just outside the city center. You will find incredible mausoleums and sarcophagi that blend Chinese and western influences. From turtle-shaped tombs to three-story "houses" for the departed, the variety is striking. After exploring, head back into the chaos of the city in Chinatown. Filipinos, Chinese, and Spanish influences have coexisted here for centuries. Often cited as the oldest Chinatown in the world, founded in 1594, it is the place to eat. Grab some pancit (Chinese noodles), empanadas, or lumpia, a crispy snack similar to a spring roll.
Shopping and nightlife
Manila has fully embraced the 21st century. You can shop in trendy boutiques or catch a performance at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Makati, a modern financial hub located 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) away, contains some of the largest shopping malls on the planet. Grabbing a drink at a rooftop bar in Makati is a standard evening activity, as the area is packed with high-end cocktail lounges.
When to go
You can visit Manila year-round, but the most pleasant weather arrives between December and February. You will avoid the worst of the rain during the summer months, but the heat and humidity can become intense.
How to get there
Expect to pay at least 550 USD (about 30,800 PHP) for a round-trip flight from the United States. Your flight will likely involve at least one layover, often in the Middle East or East Asia, resulting in a total travel time of roughly 18 to 22 hours depending on your departure city.
I have to admit that I didn't really enjoy my visit to Manila. Aside from discovering a few interesting markets, the city didn't win me over.
What strikes you most is the stark contrast between the luxury hotels and the poverty that is everywhere in the streets.
In my opinion, Manila doesn't offer much of interest for travelers, other than its practical function as the home of the international airport that makes it easier to reach other regions of the Philippines.