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The City

Metro Manila is an urban sprawl that has swallowed up 11 cities and five towns in the past two centuries. It’s a place of opposites: old and new wealth and poverty, grandiosity and decay. Smog, traffic jams and a general air of decay make a less than favourable first impression, but just beneath the surface lies a fascinating and pulsating place to enjoy. The Filipinos call it ‘The City of Our Affections’ where the people’s love affairs with fashion, music, entertainment and sheer fun are on bright and beautiful display.

By day, the original, medieval walled city of Intramuros delights with its history and elegant Latin architecture. By night — and it can be a very long night — the bright lights of Ermita and Makati beckon with jazz pubs, clubs, karaoke lounges, 24-hour diners and trendy bars. The Filipino people’s zest for life, natural friendliness and ease with the English language make them the perfect hosts, always ready to invite you to their daily party. This is a fun city where your shoulders loosen in relaxation and only the muscles you use to smile are seriously stressed.

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Do & See

Manila’s colourful history has created an interesting range of attractions to keep the energetic sightseer busy for several days. There are plenty of historical sites to admire and museums where you can learn more about the city and its culture.

Take a stroll along Roxas Boulevard and witness the famous Manila sunset after exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Agustin Church and one of the oldest churches in Manila — the Manila Cathedral. And don’t forget the stunning nature the city has on offer like the beautiful Taal Volcano with a breathtaking view, or take a guided tour to the small rocky island of Corregidor.

For sure, there are plenty to explore including shiny gems in a city with a bustling, sprawling and unique atmosphere. The cosmopolitan city of Manila is Asia’s best-kept secret and it is just waiting to be explored.

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Dining

While Philippine cuisine may not be universally acclaimed as among Asia's best, Filipinos have a deep love for food, particularly enjoying a leisurely long lunch traditionally eaten with their hands from a banana leaf. Manila stands out as one of the most affordable cities for enjoying a diverse array of international cuisines — including Thai, Chinese, Japanese, French, and Italian — each meeting global standards. Coupled with excellent service and beautiful dining settings, Manila offers a delightful experience for those looking to wine and dine.

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Cafes

Manila's coffee culture is flourishing, with countless local cafes and major international chains to choose from. The city's baristas are passionate about their craft, ensuring that whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced, strong or mild, black or flavoured, you'll find the perfect brew to satisfy your taste. And when you're in the mood for something sweet, Manila's cafes offer an enticing selection of desserts and pastries to complement your coffee or tea.

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Bars & Nightlife

Filipinos take fun seriously and Manila’s bars are among Asia’s liveliest. Happy hour is everyone’s favourite time of day — and lasts long into the night at certain hangouts. Great service, ice-cold drinks, and music nearly everywhere.

Manila is party central. Venues stay open until 5am at weekends and 3am midweek. The nightlife centres are on JM Nakpil Street, Makati Avenue or Pasay Road in Makati and throughout the Malate and Ermita districts. The palace, Manilas biggest destination is also a great place to head for when in the party mood.

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Shopping

Manila one of the most exciting shopping destinations in Southeast Asia thanks to the giant malls so-called 'megamalls' where you basically will find everything your heart might desire. The malls are open seven days a week and generally the doors opens at 10 or 11. These air-conditioned malls are also a welcome escape from the tropical heat and many families and friends are regularly spending the entire days to stroll around the stores or to have a bite to eat. Many of these malls are not just for shopping, but also boasts with theatres, spas, ice-skating rinks and cinemas, making them to a huge entertainment complex.

When you get tired of the malls, head over to one of the bazaars (called tiangge) or the markets that overflows with the hottest trends and some amazing bargains to bring back home. You can easily stock up on clothes, shoes and accessories without breaking your wallet but make sure to bargain and try to aim to pay about 30 to 40 percent lower than the original price.

Clothes, shoes and accessories are the best deals but be aware the size of the clothes tends to be smaller in Asia.

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Tourist Information