MANILA

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a vibrant metropolis. It is a hodgepodge of old and new buildings, despite pockets of poverty. Manila is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world and its metropolitan area is the country's economic, cultural, educational, and industrial center. Manila hosts many prestigious universities including the University of Santo Tomas, Southeast Asia's oldest university.

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Manila is almost synonymous to Metro Manila, which actually comprises 17 cities and municipalities with over 10 million residents. It is considered one of the mega-metropolis of the world. Centers of Business are the Binondo district, Ortigas Center and the business district, Makati City. 

It can be overwhelming to first timers, especially to tourist who can’t wait to leave Manila’s chaotic traffic, heat and pedestrians. But spend a little time and discover the little secrets of the city and the friendliness of the people. There are many all inclusive holidays offered by travel agencies tourist can choose from.

Shopping in Manila

Shopping in Manila is a way of life. Almost everywhere you go are stores, shops, boutiques from the small corner store to the giant malls that you can find almost everywhere you go in Metro Manila.

Where to Go:

Manila Ocean Park, located at the back of Quirino Grand Stand in Rizal Park, Manila. It is a multi-million, state-of-the-art oceanarium complex with an open water marine habitat, restaurants, function rooms and marine research facilities.

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The walled city of Intramuros is a must see for tourists. Within its walls are the centuries old Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church & Museum. Also inside its walls is Fort Santiago, a Spanish fortress and garrison tuned into a park. Located at the mouth ofPasig River, Intramuros was built to defend Manila from invaders. Today, inside the walled city are houses from the Spanish times that have survived. Some have been converted into cozy restaurants, museums, dormitories and souvenir shops.

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Malacañang Palace - The official residence of the president of Philippines. It also houses some government offices, the Malacañang Museum and the Presidential Museum. The palace is an 18th century villa along the Pasig River located in the center of Manila. It was purchased by the Spanish government in 1825 and has been renovated and expanded through the decades. Malacanang Palace was first used as the Spanish Governor-General's summer residence. In 1937 became the official residence of the Philippine President. Manuel L. Quezon was the first Filipino chief executive to live in Malacañang Palace. 

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At the center of Manila, every 9th of January is the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Central to the feast is the largest procession in the country. A life-size, image of Jesus Christ, venerated through the centuries (made of Blackwood) is paraded through the streets of Quiapo District beside China Town. The mammoth procession is a daylong event. It is an occasion much anticipated by devotees and some tourist. So if you are uneasy with large crowds, avoid the area on that date, the traffic within the Quiapo area and beyond comes to a halt. But to the religious or the daring, it is a sight to behold.

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Manila's nightlife is vibrant. There are countless bars, restaurants, discos, Karaoke lounges, piano bars and cafés. For the bohemian, the Malate district would be an ideal place to hang out, for the more cosmopolitan and trendy, the Greenbelt and the Fort in Makati is the place to be or try Libis and Tomas Morato in Quezon City. There are also 3 casinos in Manila -if one is inclined to take a bet. The possibilities are endless, one just have to discover what Manila has to offer.

Other Places of Interest in Manila:

• China Town, Binondo
• Rizal Park
• The Walled City of Intramuros
• Fort Santiago
• Metropolitan Museum (Central Bank)
• Malacañang Palace Museum
• National Museum
• Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex (CCP)
• Manila Cathedral & San Agustin Church
• University of Santo Tomas Museum
• Casino Filipino 
• San Sebastian Basilica

Transportation:

Going around Manila is easy because of the various transportation options. FXs, jeepneys, buses, and cabs are available depending on your choice and budget. You can also rent a van or car to be able to explore the city more. Trains such as the LRT and the MRT are also available to take around and out Manila.

Safety:

 Manila is a very busy city so its best to watch over your things where ever you are. It's also advisable to research on a place before going there so you won't get lost.

Source www.philsite.net

Teaser photo source www.destination360.com