Destination guide: Manila

Visiting Manila for the first time? 

The Manila Baywalk is a seaside promenade overlooking Manila Bay along Roxas Boulevard in the City of Manila. The promenade bustles with activities all day long including performances by local street artists and tasty local food stalls. Get there just in time for sunset to take in the breathing-taking view. 

Historic Intramuros, known as the Walled City, is a 0.67sq km walled area and was the City of Manila during the Spanish Colonial Period. Following periods of destruction and bombings during WW2, some parts of the walled city have been restored including the seven gates and small plazas. Explore Intramuros on your own or jump on a sustainable bamboo bike and ride around. 

Eat your way through the world’s oldest Chinatown. Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown, is full of affordable eateries. Get your fix of dim sum and roast duck, as well as your fill of Filipino-Chinese favourites like lumpiang Shanghai (egg rolls with meat, fish, and vegetables) and hopia (bean-filled pastry). 

Looking for something different? 

If you have a sweet-tooth go to the Mall of Asia where you’ll find the Dessert Museum. It’s a fun candy-filled attraction that boasts eight themed rooms, each inspired by a different dessert. Very insta-grammable!  

If you’re up for a five-star experience, head to The Manila Hotel. The elegant hotel has been around since 1909. If you don’t want to stay, have dinner in the Champagne Room - a lavish restaurant with timeless interior and high ceilings.  

Want to go further?

Travel to Pagsanjan Falls from Manila for the day to embark on a thrilling water adventure. Pagsanjan Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Philippines and was named a National Park in 1939. Ride over rapids in a dugout canoe to the falls and swim in a hidden cave surrounded by the lush landscape. Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and get the most out of the experience.