So you have moved to Manila and you sit in your room, AC on max and the Jeepney’s racing outside, and think: Gosh this is overwhelming – I am stranded on the islands of Philippines. Where shall I start?
7000 islands make the archipelago of Philippines. And so is Manila, an archipelago! Hire a captain and sail safely with a grab car or uber to the island you want to explore, avoiding treacherous waters and vile pirates. For the newbie in Philippines head out the following towns to get in touch with the vibe in Metro Manila and to harden your skin for the more adventurous islands (that’s where we are at).
Makati – is the mango for the thirsty newly arrived. Juicy and easy to open with tastes that are not too unfamiliar for you but still much better than what you are accustomed to. Makati feels safe and you can walk around and explore the town, unless the heat cuts you down. Hopping in and out from AC’d malls help. Makati contains shopping and restaurants as well as other easily approachable activities that require no skill or imagination. Soon, however, you will thirst for more excitement, if you are of our kind.
Intra Muros – is the old part of Manila and where the Spaniards used to hang out back in the days. Today, it feels a bit abandoned and dried out. Walk around and enjoy views that you can only enjoy in Intra Muros. Street vendors will try and sell you things no one on earth needs and tricyclists will tell you Intra Muros is huge, so hop on. The Fort Santiago is worth a visit. From the fort you will see Pasig River. As plastics and other waste flows by towards the sea your mind will be sadden. The National Museum will give you a nice introduction to Philippines, which name comes from a Spanish king called Philip.
Bonifacio Global Village – This place feels the least like Manila in general. Less cars and less traffic. People walk along pedestrian friendly streets with lower buildings. The American Cemetery is worth a visit – if not only for the peace and quiet among all the fallen young American men whose lives were cut short. Market! Market! is for shopping and restaurants for all tastes. Books can be found in Overbooked, a very pleasant bookstore.
Ortigas – where we live. Mega Mall and Shangri La Mall are here. May not sound like much, but walking through Mega Mall will be over 5 km of walking. Shopping, iceskating, bowling, haircuts, massage, medical equipment, art – something for the whole family.
Eastwood – A small oasis of shopping and restaurants watched over by smiling guards armed with assault rifles and shotguns.
When you have been to these places, don’t stop – continue exploring new islands. After all, Philippines with 300 000 km2 of land and smaller than Finland with 338 000 km2 of land.
