Manila – The City Never Sleeps
Manila, the sprawling capital of Philippines, is essentially Filipino – as it should be – but also very Western because of its Spanish connection for three hundred years since 1571 AD. The British followed the Spaniards for a brief period and then the US stepped in during the World War II. This vibrant metropolis has acquired a semblence of Western character because of the way it evolved through the long colonial period.
City of joy
Manila’s hybrid culture and fascinating history attract tourists. The best way to savor the city’s exotic mix of Spanish, American and South-East Asian cultures is to explore it without wearing blinkers. The friendly nature of the local people will impress you on your first night out. You will be inclined to accept it as a city of joy, despite its pockets of squalor and slums.
Exploring the city
Start from Intramuros. The Spanish colonizers first built their fortifications here in the 16th century. Its approach through seven old drawbridges is dramatic. It was originally built for defending Manila from invaders. Manila’s oldest church, Sun Agustin, a World Heritage site and centuries-old Manila Cathedral are located here. Many of the old Spanish houses have now been suitably converted into cozy restaurants, museums and souvenir shops.
City with a difference
Like many other cities in the world, Manila is a place where abject poverty and extravagant opulence coexist chick-by-jowl. You will still find the city fascinating because of the nostalgic east-meets-west ambience that it exudes. Manila grew from a small Muslim settlement to a bubbly Spanish settlement.
The fusion of Asian Muslim and European Christian cultures happened during the Spanish occupation. It is reflected in the city’s architecture, lifestyle, dress, food and – to some extent – music.
Tourist attractions
One of the most visited tourist attractions and a significant Manila landmark is the imposing 18th centry Malacanan Palace. It is the official residence of Philippines Presidents since 1863. Many government offices and two museums are located here.
The Coconut Palace is also an important landmark, but bizarre. The infamous Imelda Marcos got it built in 1978 during her husband’s long dictatorial rule. This extravagant lady had a fetish – besides collecting thousands of designer shoes – for building ostentatious palaces. Pope John Paul declined to stay here during his State visit because of its flamboyance. But you mustn’t miss it although it offers limited access to visitors. Its gorgeous landscaped gardens, swimming pool and the magnificent view of the Manila Bay are amazing. The Palace is built entirely of coconut products and its bathroom fittings are made of 24-carat gold. Todo sobre productos Xiaomi
Another bizarre – and definitely more popular – tourist attraction is the Quiapo Church complex. After offering your prayers you can walk to the nearby stalls and buy weird occult supplies extracted from animal concoctions, strange-looking pendants and colored candles for curing a variety of problems ranging from health to sex.
Shopping
Manila is a shoppers’ paradise.There are tempting shops and fashionable boutiques almost everywhere. Roadside vendors, small retail shops and flea markets offer excellent range of marchendize like handicrafts, pseudo-antiques, clothes and home decors that you would love to take back home.
Nightlife
Manila is a paradise for pleasure lovers. Its numerous bars, pubs and nightclubs are verywhere to keep the spirit of nightlife high.
Eating out
Manila abounds with cafes and restaurants that serve delicious and exotic local and international cuisines.
Hotels
Being a popular tourist destination, Manila offers a wide range of hotels to suit your preference. Book a suitable hotel room online and set out for this enchanting city that hardly ever sleeps.
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Manila Travel
Manila, the sprawling capital of Philippines, is essentially Filipino – as it should be – but also very Western because of its Spanish connection for three
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2024-03-29
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