Philippines Travel And Tour Destinations

Posts Tagged ‘Metro Manila’

Manila is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that meshes the old with the new. Despite some pockets of poverty, Manila remains a very charming city full of history, culture, and traditions. This metropolis is the country’s center of political, economic, social, and educational activities. It plays host to the country’s top universities as well, the most notable of which is the University of Santo Tomas, one of Asia’s oldest universities.

Usually, Manila is mistaken as Metro Manila. It is important to note that Metro Manila is one of the biggest metropolises in the world and Manila is just a city under Metro Manila. Metro Manila plays host to various business centers; some of the most distinguished include the Binondo District (Chinatown), the Makati Central Business District, and the Ortigas Center. Unlike provincial cities in the Philippines, touring Metro Manila can be chaotic for first timers.

Probably because of the 10 million people living here, traffic is sometimes horrendous. The Philippines also has a tropical climate; the heat and the traffic can sometimes make anyone lose their good-humor. Despite all the apparent setbacks in Metro Manila, some tourist cannot help but fall in love with it because of its dynamism in the face of adversity.

Say what you will of Metro Manila but no one can deny that it has pockets of hidden charm when travelers decide to look for it. Among the places you should visit include Intramuros. The Walled City of Intramuros is a must-visit for any traveler. Inside its walls are remnants of Manila’s Spanish past. It Walled City is Fort Santiago which is a Spanish garrison and fortress converted as a part. Also found inside is the San Agustin Church and Museum, a historic structure that will awe anyone. Intramuros was originally built to defend the city from potential invaders and it has served its purpose of hundreds of years. Now, it is time for tourist to enjoy its history.