subject: Exploring Magical Manila [print this page] Only second to Quezon in terms of population, theres a reason why an increasing number of Filipinos migrate to the country enchanting capital city with each passing year. As a towering metropolis stocked to the brim full of sky scrapers, Manila is a city of opportunity and a bustling tourist hub thats grabbing the worlds attention with its own brand of attractions.
Visitors in search of the citys must see historic sites should first head down to the sprawling Nayong Filipino Cultural Park. Spread out across 114 acres, this massive cultural park explores the cultures of the countrys many indigenous communities with engaging and interactive exhibits. Home to an aquarium as well as an aviary, the venue also offers guests enchanting cultural performances while six of the nations indigenous districts have also been recreated on the premises in miniature form. Fort Santiago is another hotspot as the historic site is a treasure trove full of ancient ruins, prison cells, dungeons and even a museum, while the folk hero Jose Rizalhe is also believed to have served time within this monumental structure.
The walled city of Intramuros located adjacent to Fort Santiago is also worth the visit due to its historic significance. Within the city, visitors will find the San Agustin Church as well as the Manila Cathedral in addition to ancient horse drawn carriages or calesas. Other cultural points of interest include Quiapo Church at Plaza Miranda while Rizal Park is another must- see attraction when in Manila. As the revered site where Jose Rizal was killed and martyred by Spanish troops, this historic park is one of the most famed locales in all of the Philippines. Visitors can tour the Manila Planetarium, Quirino Grandstand and Japanese and Chinese style gardens all within the parkland.
A visit to Manila will not be complete without a quiet stroll in the Bay Walk area or spending the day at one of the citys many theme parks. Drop by Enchanted Kingdom with its 11-floor high Space Shuttle roller coaster and Log Jam water ride or step in to the countrys biggest water park, Splash Island. With every conceivable water ride on-site, some of the highlights at the theme park include the Rio Montanosa ride, Big Bam Boo and the King Pilipit adventure. For an authentic shopping experience in Manila, look no further than the always vibrant Divisoria street market. Lined with quaint stores offering local produce and everything under the sun, this super busy market place is a great place for bargains and memorable encounters with locals.
Those looking for a luxury hotel in Manila Bay can find no better alternative to the Traders Hotel Manila. Less than half an hour away from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport this cosy rest is a conveniently located hotel in Manila city.
