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Manila is a blend of modernity and antiquity, vibrancy and tranquility. Though ancient, Manila remains youthful and modern, not only boasting the bustling atmosphere of Asia's leading shopping centers, but also preserving the historical legacy of the Filipino people's struggle.
Ancient city
As various fortification structures such as citadels and fortresses developed throughout the Middle Ages, it's no surprise that tourists can see these structures as if they were in Europe. But Filipinos don't need to go to Europe to see these structures; they can admire them right here in their own country.
Intramuros, meaning "inner walled area" in Filipino, is an ancient walled city built by the Spanish in Manila in 1571. While much of the city's historical sites were destroyed during World War II, this area still offers visitors an authentic feel of old Manila. Your journey begins at the Augustinian Church, one of the few structures that survived the battle between the US and Japanese in 1945. Today, many couples choose this as an ideal location for their wedding ceremony. Afterwards, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Intramuros to learn more about this ancient city.
The horse-drawn carriage stopped at Fort Santiago, a must-see when visiting Intramuros. The fort was built in the 16th century during Manila's early days by a Spanish military commander named Miguel López de Legazpi. Today, it stands as an important historical monument in the Philippines. The fort suffered significant damage during the wars between the US and the Philippines against Japan, but it has not been restored, with the aim of providing visitors with insightful glimpses into the country's history. Within the fort walls are remnants of the old Spanish barracks and other buildings. Several cannons and mortar shells are also found within the fort.
With just two hours on a horse-drawn carriage or half a day of walking, you can gain some insight into the distant past of the Philippines.
A destination for shopaholics.
For a long time, when it comes to shopping, most people think of Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, inadvertently overlooking the heart of the Philippines – Manila, home to many of Asia's leading bustling shopping malls. As the economic, cultural, and tourist center of the Philippines, Manila has everything from high-end fashion brands from around the world to local fashion items…
After exploring Manila's historical sites, you can return to the city center and immerse yourself in its bustling shopping scene. You can visit shopping malls like Greenhills, Greenbelt, or Mall of Asia to experience the city's modern lifestyle.
Just one visit to Greenhills will make you want to come back again and again when you're in the Philippines. Located in Greenhills, San Juan, it was once home to the upper classes of Chinese and Filipinos. Thousands of stalls sell inexpensive items such as clothing, handicrafts, and pearls – a favorite among tourists as the Philippines is one of the cheapest places to buy pearls. There are also food, drinks, and various goods, especially phones, shoes, bags, and furniture. Pottery stalls are also concentrated in this area.
Located in a large area surrounded by Makati Avenue, Paseo de Roxas, Arnaiz, and Legazpi, Greenbelt is a complex of five modern buildings. What makes this shopping center special is that each section has its own distinct architectural style and characteristics. While Greenbelt 1 focuses on electronics and household goods, Greenbelt 2 houses restaurants. Greenbelt 3 features high-end retail stores and cafes. Greenbelt 4, smaller than Greenbelt 3, is home to renowned fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferregamo, Jimmy Choo, Prada, and Gucci. Greenbelt 5 provides space for stores of famous Philippine fashion designers, along with imported brands like Patek Philippe, Rolex, Panerai, and Zara.
You can also visit the largest shopping mall in the Philippines and the sixth 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 ideal place for you.
After a long day exploring historical sites and some of the Philippines' best shopping malls, unwind in the country's vibrant bars and nightclubs. Visitors can head to Greenbelt and The Fort for whiskey, dancing, and lively parties. For those seeking something more unique, the Hobbit House, with its architecture reminiscent of the Hobbits in The Lord of the Rings and its gnome-like waiters, is a must-visit.
You can't experience all of Manila in a single day. However, with that much time to explore the capital, you can gain a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and life of this gateway city to the Philippines.
Additional information:
+ Regarding Manila:
Located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay, the city borders Navotas and Caloocan to the north, Quezon and San Juan to the northeast, Mandaluyong to the east, Makati to the southeast, and Pasay to the south. Manila is the capital, political, and economic center of the Philippines, boasting numerous historically and culturally significant landmarks. Considered a global city, it houses scientific and educational institutions, a range of sports facilities, and historical sites.
+ Travel:
Philippine Airlines operates daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Manila.
+ Accommodation:
Manila offers a wide variety of hotels and resorts to suit your budget, such as The Linden Suites Manila, Diamond Hotel Philippines, and Heritage Hotel…
+ Tourist attractionsIntramuros Fortress, Manila Gallery, Greenhills Shopping Center, Greenbelt, Mall of Asia, Manila Bay, Chinatown, Marikina Shoe Museum, Taal Volcanic Lake, Manila Cathedral…
Additionally, for more detailed information and to book a tour, please visit our website:www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.vnAlternatively, contact the Philippine Tourism Authority in Vietnam at: (+848) 3 551 2202 | Facebook: Philippine Tourism – Vietnam.
