Tin MendezMetropolitan Manila, commonly known as Metro Manila, is a cluster of humongous cities that are also among the busiest and most populated in the country. While its span can stretch from Caloocan in the North all the way down to Muntinlupa in the south, let us limit our mark on the cities one would most likely travel in and around in their first time in the Metro: Quezon, Pasig, Mandaluyong, Makati, Taguig, Pasay City and Manila City.
Side tip: Pasay, Makati and Taguig are the best locations for hotels close to the Airport. Skyway is the common short cut from Taguig or Makati to Pasay, where the airport is located.
Metro Manila can be overwhelming. Okay, let’s rephrase that – it is overwhelming! The common perception is that it’s only a transit destination unless you have friends in the Metro to meet. Of course the news and the stories we often hear about Manila do a very good job in discouraging any first time travellers to roam around and discover the beauty of this metropolitan area. Let this article attempt to shed light on a few of the beautiful and interesting sides of Metro Manila because, trust me, there are plenty!
Also read: Exploring the Philippine Capital: Top 8 Things to Do in Manila
1. Explore the ruins and history of Isla de Corregidor
Image credit: massa 我嫌日的冬
The fortified island that was an important part in guarding Manila City against the Japanese invaders during WWII may fall under the jurisdiction of the province of Cavite, but it can be easily accessed from Manila bay through Sun Cruises which offers transportation and guided day tours or with overnight stay to and from the island.
Aside from its rich historical significance and scenic colonial Spanish military structures, Corregidor was also the setting of Twilight Zone’s “A Quality of Mercy” episode (not actual setting though). Rod Serling fought in the Battle of Manila which started on the 3rd of February 1945 to reclaim Manila City from the Japanese force. He was even awarded the Philippine Liberation Medal. His experience in the Philippines has shaped his views so much that a few of his stories were set here!
Trivia: “A Quality of Mercy” was also among the first appearances of Leonard Nimoy a.k.a. Spock (Sheldon Cooper’s biggest idol in the Big Bang Theory TV series).
2. Walk, learn and laugh around Intramuros
Image credit: Allan Jay Quesada
Docked in the main capital, Manila City, Intramuros is home not only to millions of Filipinos but also to rich historical landmarks that without a visit, would make your stay in the Metro incomplete. While one can do a DIY city walk, another time saving, hassle free and probably safer alternative is to partake in the Carlos Celdran Walking Tour. Known to be quirky, animated and full of laughs, this tour guide will treat you to a comprehensive historical background of Manila mixed with wit, humour and, I’ve heard, a halo-halo at the end.
Trivia: Intramuros was also called the “walled city” and districts outside of it were referred to as extramuros of Manila.
3. Challenge the Myth of the Human Body
Image credit: Myth of the Human Body Exhibit
If tired of being in the city outdoors all day, there are still options for indoor activities which make your stay worthwhile. Myth of the Human Body is an exhibit but not like any other exhibits. It aims to educate visitors about the wonders of the human body using, well what else, real human specimens! It might not be for the squeamish travellers, but it provides a very realistic and fact-focused approach to education. Very helpful for medical students and a treat for the anatomy nerds.
4. Walk through Philippine history without a time machine
Image credit: Ayala Museum
Another indoor option, also educational, is the highly acclaimed Ayala Museum in Makati just beside Greenbelt Mall. House to a great collection of Filipino ancient gold craft, Chinese ceramics, and replicas of Asian ancient maritime vessels, this museum is a building of wonders. It also includes a walkthrough of the Philippine history from Spanish to the 1980’s in a form of creative dioramas which the museum is also famous for.
5. Fancy being Sherlock or Poirot?
Image credit: Mystery Manila
Yes, by now you probably know that Metro Manila is not just a place for malls the size of a city (exaggeration, of course) but home to different avenues where you can learn the history of the country. But let’s say we are more into the mood of current and in trend activities. The popular room escape game has come to the Metro. Fancy being Sherlock or Poirot? Breakout, Mystery Manila and Outbreak Manila offer different scenarios for escape room games that will surely leave guests thrilled for life.
6. What is a trip without a food trip?
Image credit: Ria R
So, what is a trip without a food trip? While most of the international known restaurants have branches in Metro Manila already, there are other venues where you can experience great food and ambiance while showing support to local and independent business establishments. Maginhawa Village in Quezon City and Kapitolyo in Pasig City are the most popular places for food trip in the Metro. Plenty, I mean PLENTY, of different restaurants and cafés which offer different specialties and cuisines have their shops in these two humble villages.
7. College days around trees and architecture
Image credit: Ramon FVelasquez
Time to walk those calories off. Head to UP Diliman for a good afternoon walk observing everyday lives of not only students but the whole village as well since they are nicely integrated in each other. The first state university and alma mater of many great Filipino minds is also a place where you can walk through different architectural styles like Art Deco and International architecture reminiscent of the 1930’s to 1960’s era. The university also holds good work samples of great Filipino architects in the likes of Juan Nakpil, the first national artist for architecture.
The best time to be there is early morning or late afternoon. While it gets crowded on a Sunday, it is exceptionally special as it brings good companies like parents and offspring jogging together around the university oval. But the best thing about this University is the stretch of huge, beautiful Acacia and Fire trees that scatter around the campus.
8. Play the game of life and make friends while you’re at it
Image credit: Football Manila
If you want to stretch those muscles and at the same time meet new friends, join Football Manila, a footballing community which hosts regular weekdays and weekends open play in Makati and BGC. Many travellers have put on good words about it. Open for everyone in different skill level, even the shy ones, it’s as easy as going there, enlisting and play. They also hold beginner’s training for the ones who are just trying it out. For as long as you have a good pair of running shoes, you’re good to go!
Also read: 15 Experiences You Must Have in The Philippines
9. City gaze from up above
Image credit: Mike Pehipol
Wondering where to go at night? What else can big cities offer best? Breathtaking view of the city lights, of course! Plenty of hotels have rooftop bars on their top decks where you can enjoy the view of the Metro while sipping on some cocktails or beer in hand. Just don’t fall off the roof top!
Metro Manila might seem unfriendly at first especially when confronted with the long problem of traffic (side tip: avoid rush hours and always carry a map or GPS). But like any other cities, there are hidden gems scattered amidst this concrete jungle.
Whether for a short visit or a period stay, the city, or the cities rather, can always bring a mix of everything – historical landmarks, thrilling adventures, an afternoon stroll satisfying the cravings or a peace and quiet up on the deck. Of course, any place you will go to, especially on your first time, requires you to always come prepared. With a good ounce of common sense, a pinch of caution and open-mindedness, and a whole dose of craving for adventure, there is no way you cannot enjoy your stay in Metro Manila.
