5 Things to do and see in Manila

Philippines: 5 Things to do and see in Manila

Some info and facts about Manila

First thing to know: Manila is actually called Manila. Manila is the Anglicized version of his real name (as Peking = Beijing). It is the capital of the Philippines, and one of the most densely populated city in the world with 43,079 inhab. / Km ².

Ilya 1.6 million people in Manila itself, and about 11 million in Metro Manila (around Manila). It is located on the west coast of the island of Luzon.

Manila is the name of Spanish origin, itself derived from the Tagalog word 'nilad', a mangrove tree type that gives white flowers.

The country was colonized by the Spanish you can see many remnants of colonial architecture. She was also very bombed pendant WWII.

For a first trip to the Philippines, especially if it's your first trip to Asia, be prepared for a shock: there is a lot of poverty. You'll see kids begging, maimed, prostitution and very grimey corners. The pollution is very high, the atmosphere is dirty, you have to be careful not to get ripped off, there are plenty of pick pocket and public transport are messy to use when you do not know.

The Manila airport called Ninoy Aquino International Airport and certainly by this that you will get. It lies about 7 km south of Malate, the neighborhood where there hotels and backpacker hostels. It is among the worst airport in the world, and there have been many times I can confirm 100%: in fact it is mostly the terminal 1 which is horrible, terminal 3 is new and pretty good but the staff is really incompetent (not everyone thankfully). 

After three days in Manila I was eager to go, but there are some interesting areas to visit and it is a good starting point if you need to go shopping for the rest of your trip. Everyone speaks English where almost, which is a big plus.

Where to sleep and eat in Manila?

The backpacker district of Manila where you will find all the hotels, inns, currency exchange, etc ... is called 'MALATE. It is north of the airport. It's the perfect place to stay if you come to Manila because it is not very far from the most interesting corners. I speak 

What to visit in Manila

This is essential to do and see in Manila if you need a place to stay things:

1 –The island of Corregidor

That's reason number Uno spent a few days in Manila: This is also why I stayed in Manila rather than going to the rice fields in the North (anyway I have not had time to do it in three days). 

Corregidor is an island where they have spent fighting between the Americans and the Japanese army during World War II. This really is a must do if you go to Manila, especially if you are an avid World War II or a fan of Call Of Duty. In addition to the ferry that takes you there is not very far from Malate, it's about 30 minutes walk. 

Also, if you go there on foot you can also walk along Manila Bay, a walk by the sea (if you walk westwards from Malate). Chlingue it a little but it is interesting to see.

2 – Intramuros

The old walled city of the Spanish settlers and American settlers. It is not very far either Malate, so you can visit in one day. It was destroyed partially during the bombing of the second world war and rebuilt in the 50 Places to see the most interesting Intramuros are:

• The San Augustine church look at the ceiling inside, it has a raised effect amazing. It is relaxed place to be.
• Fort Santiago (north of Intramuros): nice to visit but worth less kick without a guide to explain the place.
• Cathedral Manila closed in February 2014 because of the construction was in progress. But it's worth a look from the outside.

3 – Rizal park

Located ten minutes walk south of Intramuros. Fun to do and you are forced to miss if you're going to walk to Intramuros from the hotel district of Malate. Some greenery in Manila, it's good.

4 – Go shopping

For shopaholics, you'll be spoiled! Robinson Square is the largest mall in the center of Manila and is a five minute walk from the backpacker district. You'll find restaurant, supermarket, clothing stores, there's even a Daizo (Japanese-style stores where everything is 80 pesos). 

If that's not enough you can go to Mall of Asia, from the center by cons and harder to access. I went on foot from Malate, I took an hour and a half (I lost by against). It lies south of Malate. It is huge and is part of the largest shopping centers in Asia. There is even a skating rink inside and Imax cinema. 

SM Megamall is even bigger it seems but I'm not gone. It is located in Ortigas Business District.

5 – See cockfights

For those with a strong stomach and the sight of blood does not bother! Unfortunately I could just take a picture of the outside as it was closed the day I went. Take the Tram to Libertad Station. Ask people on the street where the 'Cockpit' and they give you directions. Beware, it is closed on Thursdays and Saturdays. It's open to foreigners without problem, the input is 20-30 on the road pesos.Vous see many shops selling special food for fighting cocks.