A Short Stay Trip To Manila Philippines by Sinclair James

A Story by James Sinclair

Manila is one good place to start if you are into experiencing different things in every turn.

Metro Manila is known for its heavy traffic and heavier pollution, yet, it remains the most interesting city when we speak of history and cultural heritage. Eclipsed between its more progressive neighbors, Makati and Quezon City in terms of infrastructure and business developments, the city of Manila takes pride of being a melting pot of cultures, religions, languages and eminence. Manila is one good place to start if you are into experiencing different things in every turn. The city is always busy and full of life since it is a given that it is one of the most crowded places in the world.

If you are a tourist and are planning to stay in Manila for a short trip, here are the following things to do:

1. Wear Comfortable Clothes

Well, for starters, the Philippines is one of the hottest places on Earth. Summer time in London or wherever you are from is the coldest in the country. Temperature can reach up to 34̊ in a normal dry season in Manila. If you are planning to take long walks, it is wise to dress appropriately and make sure to wear the most comfortable shoes. Be like any local and blend with the crowd. If you are lost, don’t hesitate to ask from a local. Filipinos are known to be the friendliest people in the world so it wouldn’t be hard to approach them.

2. Travel on Local Transportation

Each Asian country has its own unique means of transportation. The Philippines also has its own to offer. Jeepneys. Tricycles. Pedicabs. Kalesa. These are the rides that can make your trip colorful. Prior to your ride, make sur you already have the exact amount of fare on your hand. Prepare yourself for chaotic moments, traffic, and tons of things to see. Learn to say “para” when you have already arrived in your destination. To show respect, you can add “po” at the end of the word.

3. Try the local food

Filipinos have a unique taste palette and your trip cannot be completed if you don’t try to these different set of flavors. Plenty of food are sold in the streets (as Filipinos love to eat, 5 different set of meals complete the day). Try balut, isaw, sisig, chicharon bulaklak, fish/squid ball, dirty ice cream, mani, banana cue, taho, turon, tokneneng, kwek kwek, binatog and the list goes on. Sinclair James International