Manila, the capital of the Phillipines, is a buzzing metropolis with lots of action! If you’re planning a trip to one of the islands nearby, we recommend a weekend here before you head out to check out the sites and sounds.
STAY
Luxe:Raffles Makati, Makati, Manila, +63 2 555 9777
Boutique:The Picasso Boutique Service Residence, Makati, Metro Manila, +63 2 828 4774
For the business traveler:Pan Pacific,Malate, Metro Manila, +63 2 318 0788
DINE
Swanky Eats:Vask Tapas Room, Taguig, Metro Manila, +63 2 217 6563
Modern Filipino:Toyo Eatery,Makati, Metro Manila, +63 917 720 8360
Local Haunts:Salcedo Saturday Market, Makati, Metro Manila, +63 915 383 5327
Healthy grub and good drinks:Cu Chi Makati,Makati, Metro Manila, +63 906 526 0256
DRINK
Live it up at:Manadalay Cigar & Whisky, Makati, Metro Manila, +63 832 834 5292
Fancy cocktails: ABV,Makati, Metro Manila, +63 917 520 1608
Gastropub: The Belle & Dragon,Makati, +63 2 625 8828
PARTY
Dance the night away:Pool Club,Taguig, Metro Manila, +63 917 689 8888
Casual & easy:Finders Keepers,Makati, +63 917 888 1088
Lounge & Club:Revel at The Palace,Metro Manila, +63 917 550 8888
MUST DOs
As a US ally in WWII, Manila was bombed flat by the Japanese which is why it doesnt have the old Spanish buildings anymore. The remaining old structures lie in Intramuros and Chinatown.Take a walking tour with Carlos Celdran, which is the best way to see the old historical city.
If you are in CBD area in Makati on the weekends, check out the Saturday market at Salcedo Park and Legazpi Park on Sundays. At the markets you can find fresh seafood and other local delights.
If you have some time, take a few days and book a cheap flight to one of the nearby islands like Boracay or Palawan. If you don’t have time for that, take a drive to Taal Lake (56 km away from Manila).
