Hi, Linda.
The capital of the Philippines, a grouping of twelve cities and five
municipalities, is known as Metro Manila but is usually referred to as MANILA.
It is home to around 9.5 million people.
Here's a short list of places to visit in Manila. (I assume you'll only be
roaming around Metro Manila since you only have 2 to 3 days max.)
Intramuros is Manila's heritage site. It's a fort built by the Spaniards in
the 16th century. Intramuros is taken from Latin and means "within the walls."
Bamboo Organ in Las Pinas
Formerly called Bagumbayan, Rizal Park is the site of Philippine hero Jose
Rizal's execution. The Quirino Grandstand, a stone's throw away, is the venue
for major events.
For the young and young-at-heart, Enchanted Kingdom is theme park in Laguna,
an hour away from Manila.
Splash Island is a water theme park (like Waterbom in Bali) in Laguna, an
hour away from Manila. Get ready for exciting slides and other water activites.
Greenhills Shopping Center is the place to be for bargain shopping.
Learn a thing or two about Philippine history in the National Museum of the
Filipino People.
SM Mall of Asia is the largest shopping mall in the Philippines and is in the
top 10 list of largest shopping malls in the world in terms of gross rentable
space. It has an Olympic-size skating rink and an IMAX Theater.
Greenbelt 3 in Makati is an upscale shopping mall where Manila's hippest
crowd gather. Walkway from Greenbelt 3 connect you to other shopping malls like
Glorietta.
Don't miss the sunset in Manila Bay. Afterwards, stroll along the streets of
Malate where restaurants and bars are aplenty.
Go to Manila Chinatown in Binondo to find exquisite Asian merchandise,
traditional Chinese medicine, and delicious Chinese food.
Commuting is easier with the MRT and LRT.
The Coconut Palace was commissioned by former First Lady Imelda Marcos for
Pope John Paul II's visit in 1981. The Palace is made of several types of
Philippine hardwood, coconut shells, and a specially engineered coconut lumber.
Craving for seafood? Dampa in Paranaque serves the freshest catch.
The Philippines is the largest Catholic nation in Asia. Visit the Manila
Cathedral. The present cathedral was constructed in 1954 to 1958 under
Archbishop Rufino Jiao Santos of Manila and under the supervision of National
Artist for Architecture Awardee, Architect Fernando Ocampo.
The Basilica of San Sebastian is the only all-steel basilica in Asia and is
the second largest structure in the world to be made of steel, next only to the
Eiffel Tower.
La Mesa Dam Ecopark offer nature-trippers a chance to get away from the
hustle and bustle of the city. Boat rides for the romantics are available here.
Eastwood City Libis is a hip commercial and entertainment district.
Malacanang Palace is the presidential residence.
Quezon City Circle stands proud near the Quezon City Hall.
The Oblation in the University of the Philippines
All the places I mentioned can be found in Manila and its neighboring cities.
You should visit other places in the country like Cebu, Subic, Clark, Baguio,
Boracay, Cagayan de Oro, Bicol, Palawan, and Davao. There are direct flights
from Manado (Indonesia) to Davao via Sriwijaya Air and Merpati Nusantara.
You can contact me if you have any other questions.
I hope you and your friend will enjoy your stay in the Philippines.
Linda Riberu <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
st1\:*{behavior:url(#default#ieooui) }
Hi Remus,
I know you from IBP, and that you are a Filipino in Surabaya.
I and a friend have a plan to visit Philippine on the 2nd week on October for
2 or 3 days max.
Please advice us some places to visit / to stay, or some do or dont while we
are in your country.
Your info will be much appreciated!
Many Thanks!
linda riberu
