Manila is a fusion of modern and ancient, vibrant and quiet. Manila is ancient but still very young and modern because it not only has the hustle and bustle of Asia's top shopping centers, but is also a place that preserves the historical mark of the Filipino people's struggle.
Ancient city
As various structures of fortifications such as citadels and fortresses developed throughout the Middle Ages, it was not surprising that visitors were treated to the same views as those in Europe. But Filipinos do not have to travel to Europe to see these structures, they can see them right here in the country.
Intramuros, which means “inside the walls” in Filipino, is the old city built by the Spanish in Manila in 1571. While most of the city was destroyed in World War II, this area still gives visitors an authentic feel of old Manila. Your journey begins at the Augustinian Church, one of the few structures that survived the 1945 battle between the Americans and the Japanese. Today, many couples choose this place as the ideal location to hold their wedding receptions. Afterwards, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Intramuros to learn more about this ancient city.
The carriage stopped at Fort Santiago, a must-see when visiting Intramuros. The fort was built in the 16th century by a Spanish commander named Miguel López de Legazpi, during the founding of Manila. Today, it is an important historical monument in the Philippines. The fort was heavily damaged during the Philippine-American War with the Japanese, but it has not been restored to give visitors an insight into the country’s history. The walls still contain old Spanish barracks and other buildings. Several cannons and mortar shells are also found in the old citadel.
With just two hours on a horse-drawn carriage or half a day on foot, you can get a glimpse into the Philippines' ancient past.
Destination for shopaholics
For a long time, when talking about shopping, most people think of Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and accidentally forget the heart of the Philippines - Manila, where many of Asia's top shopping centers are concentrated. As the economic - cultural - tourist center of the Philippines, Manila has all kinds of goods, from high-end fashion brands of world-famous brands to domestic fashion...
After exploring the historical sites in Manila, you can return to the city center and indulge in the bustling shopping world. You can visit Greenhills, Greenbelt or Mall of Asia to immerse yourself in the modern life of the city.
Just visit Greenhills Center once, you will definitely want to come back again and again when you come to the Philippines. Greenhills is located in Greenhills, San Juan, which used to be the residence of the Chinese and Filipino upper class. Thousands of stalls sell cheap items such as clothes, handicrafts, pearls – a favorite product of tourists because the Philippines is one of the cheapest places to buy pearls. There are also foods, drinks or all kinds of utensils, especially phones, shoes, bags and furniture. Ceramic stalls are also concentrated in this area.
Situated in a large area and surrounded by Makati Avenue, Paseo de Roxas, Arnaiz and Legazpi, Greenbelt is a complex of 5 modern buildings. What is special about this shopping mall is that each area has its own architectural style and characteristics. While Greenbelt 1 focuses on electronics and home appliances, Greenbelt 2 includes restaurants serving food. Greenbelt 3 is for high-end retail stores and cafes. Greenbelt 4, smaller than Greenbelt 3, is home to famous fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferregamo, Jimmy Choo, Prada, Gucci… Greenbelt 5 provides space for stores of famous Philippine fashion designers, along with imported goods such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, Panerai or Zara.
You can also go to the largest shopping mall in the Philippines and the 6th largest in Asia, the Mall of Asia. Here you can watch a romantic movie and enjoy the nightlife. If you want to escape the heat of Manila, this is the place for you.
After a long day of exploring historical sites and some of the Philippines’ best shopping malls, unwind in the city’s many bars and nightclubs. Tourists can visit Greenbelt and The Fort for whiskey, dancing and partying. For those who like something different, Hobbit House, modeled after the Hobbits in Lord of the Rings and staffed by dwarves, is a must-see.
You can't see all of Manila in a day. But spending that much time around the capital will give you a better understanding of the history, culture and lifestyle of this gateway city to the Philippines.
More information:
+ About Manila:
The city is located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay, bordered by Navotas and Caloocan City to the north, Quezon City and San Juan City to the northeast, Mandaluyong City to the east, Makati City to the southeast, and Pasay City to the south. Manila is the capital, political and economic center of the Philippines, with many important historical and cultural sites. The city is considered a global city, including scientific and educational institutions, a series of sports facilities, and historical sites.
+ Travel:
Philippine Airlines has daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Manila.
+ Accommodation:
Manila has a wide variety of hotels and resorts to suit your budget such as The Linden Suites Manila, Diamond Hotel Philippines and Heritage Hotel…
+ Sightseeing: Intramuros, Manila Gallery, Greenhills Mall, Greenbelt, Mall of Asia, Manila Bay, Chinatown, Marikina Shoe Museum, Taal Volcano Lake, Manila Cathedral…
In addition, for more information and tour booking, please visit the website:www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.vnor contact the Philippine Tourism Authority in Vietnam at: (+848) 3 551 2202 | Facebook: Philippine Tourism – Vietnam.
