Manila Travel Guide

Metropolitan Manila on the whole has officially 6 million inhabitants (unofficially 9 million) and it is one of the most exhausting cities in Southeast Asia. Don't expect to get any rest, for that kind of thing you need to take a plane or shuttle boat from manila Bay to one of the smaller islands.

Manila is the capital of the Philippines and was founded on June 24th, 1571 on the harbor now known as Manila Bay on the east coast of Luzon, the Philippines largest and most northerly island. It is the second largest city in the country with a population of 1,581,000 trailing second behind Quezon City with 2,173,000. Manila started out as a humble village and has grown to become the governmental, commercial and educational center of the nation.

The heart of old Manila can be found inside Intramuros - meaning "within the walls," a well cared for 15th century original Spanish settlement. The fort and St. Augustine Church still are good examples of colonial architecture. Old ruins damaged by WWII still stand across the landscape while modern edifices dart the distant skyline. An outstanding example of colonial architecture is the Manila Cathedral, the third to be built on site and whose tower and dome can be seen miles away. Eateries specializing in savory local cuisine as well as international tastes are conveniently located within the walls. While a golf course encircles the entire ancient settlement.

The Sunset at Manila Bay is also one of the most spectacular in the world. It can be enjoyed along Roxas Boulevard where one can take a leisurely stroll and arrive at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Here Fine Art, Western and Eastern music and dance meet in the likes of the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Ballet Philippines, and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. There are convenient trains called the LRT, LRT2 and MRT railways for people to get around the entirety of Metro Manila, or try your luck like a local and enjoy the adventure, history and thrill of a Jeepney - the quintessential Filipino transportation.