Manila Travel Guide
Guide
- Manila Travel Guide
- The Basics
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- Hotels in Manila
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Why? Many who travel to Manila find that the
cosmopolitan capital of the Philippines is the most exciting city
in Asia, offering a blend of cultures, a good supply of historic
sights and places to see, and unforgettable experiences. Another
plus for a holiday in Manila is that the city is as lively at night
as it is during the day.
When? Peak season for a holiday in Manila is
between November and February when the generally high tropical
temperatures drop somewhat. This period also falls in the dry
season, which is a big consideration because during the wet season
the city can be subject to typhoons and tropical storms.
Who for? A holiday in Manila is recommended for
young, energetic travellers who enjoy sightseeing, shopping malls
and plenty of after-dark activity like the city's infamous go-go
clubs and wild nightspots.
More Info: Anyone planning a holiday in Manila
should have safety and security concerns, and it is wise to check
on conditions before you go. This is easy to do using our
up-to-date Manila travel guide. Not only does the guide feature
safety information, but a host of other useful facts and figures to
help you plan your Manila holiday.
Overview
Manila, the somewhat daunting capital and pulsating hub of the Philippines, is situated on the east coast of Luzon, the most northerly island, also the largest and the most developed. The city was founded in 1571 on the site of a Muslim settlement. Its major tourist attraction is the old Spanish walled city, known as Intramuros, which contains some historic buildings and ruins.
Modern Manila is a morass of traffic and people, polluted and chaotic, an industrial metropolis that grew from the ashes of war when in 1945, the United States' forces fought to recapture it from Japanese occupation. It is also a city of theatres, libraries and museums, and the home to the University of the Philippines. The neighbourhoods of the metropolis vary from wide avenues full of palatial homes to squatter camps where the poorest of the poor scratch out a living.
Visitors to the Philippines cannot avoid using Manila as a starting point for their exploration of the other provinces and islands, because most charter flights to the outlying islands leave from the city's airport. The city is also within reach of day and weekend getaways on the island of Luzon; this makes it a good base for travellers intent on touring. One thing no visitor should miss is a famous Manila Bay sunset: a light show created out of the high humidity conditions coupled with the effects of cloud over the city's harbour. This remarkable sight allows a short respite from the more unpleasant aspects of the sprawling city. View the sunset from Rizal Park, Roxas Boulevard or from a cruise boat that plies around Manila Bay.