Holiday in Manila

About Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a city of extreme contrasts and overflowing energy: Historical Spanish colonial architecture in Intramuros stands next to glittering skyscrapers in Makati, and the chaotic hustle and bustle of street markets gives way just a few kilometers away to well-maintained shopping malls of impressive size. The megacity with over 13 million inhabitants is loud, hectic, and irresistibly vibrant. Intramuros, the walled old town from the Spanish colonial period, houses the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the 16th century, and Fort Santiago on the Pasig River. Rizal Park, named after the national hero Jose Rizal, offers a green breather in the city center. The National Museum of Fine Arts showcases Philippine art from the colonial period to the present and has free admission. Manila's street food scene is an adventure: Adobo, Lechon (roast pig), Halo-Halo (ice dessert), and Balut (fertilized duck egg) are part of the culinary identity. The nightlife in Poblacion, Makati's up-and-coming party district, pulses into the early morning hours. Manila is the ideal starting point for the Philippine dream beaches of Palawan, Boracay, and Siargao. December to May offers dry season with pleasant temperatures.