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The Philippines is known for its beautiful islands and tourists always prefer the caves and the sands of some hidden provinces in the said archipelago but what they do not know is that Metro Manila has its own features that it can proudly brag about. Apart from the pollution and the traffic jams, the Philippine capital and its nearby cities offer historic sites and shopping havens.
What makes Metro Manila a historic destination is its landmarks i.e. Rizal Park also called Luneta by the locals. Rizal Park is where the Rizal Monument is found. Families and couples often have a picnic in this part of Manila. If you are one who appreciates fresh air and loves to sit on the grass while eating -this is the perfect spot for you.
Near Luneta is Quirino Grandstand –an integral part of the country’s history since it is the usual venue for big events and political campaigns and rallies. The rather old National Museum is also found near Luneta and a great stopping point for those who want a respite from the heat. Inside the museum are original masterpieces of great Filipino artists. Another landmark is Intramuros -the center of power during the Spanish Colonial Era. Manila Bay is also a great spot for those who would like to experience its infamous sunset.
Nightlife In The Metro
Nightlife is one important part of the Manileño’s lifestyle -be it a date, a get-together, or a night out with a few friends –bar hopping is a way of life. Although the bars or clubs are not as wild as that of those in Europe or in other Asian countries, you can be sure that you will find a lo of entertainment in this part of town. For the upper class Filipino, The Fort in the Philippines’ financial capital Makati Ciy is a great destination. Ascend and Encore are among the many bars to go to in Makati. For a more relaxed atmosphere the bars near the sea-side located at SM Mall of Asia at Pasay City are a great choice.
A Shopper’s Paradise
If shopping is one of your favorite activities, high class malls such as Rockwell Center, Gateway, Alabang Town Center, Trinoma, The Podium and Bonifacio High Street are all great spots.
Before air conditioned malls however, local markets were the most popular shopping places but although middle and upper class malls are very popular, many Filipinos still prefer shopping in the traditional wet markets where different goods are peddled or placed on the cobblestone floors. Filipinos on a tight budget go to Divisoria or Baclaran. There are many tiangge or small stalls in these two places. Going around Divisoria and Baclaran is a real delight if you can stand the heat.
Travel Insurance
Whether you are planning to travel to a European country or to a third world destination, it is always best to get travel insurance. If you are planning to go to Metro Manila, make sure that you are covered for theft, kidnapping and extortion not that this will happen to you but this is only one way to protect yourself from any type of mishap.
There are so many places to go to in the Philippines and if you are a Filipino, exploring your own country before visiting other tourist spots in Asia or in other parts of the world is a must. The three main islands in the Philippines include Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Luzon is where the capital is located. Metropolitan Manila may be one of the biggest attractions because the megacity hosts the biggest malls and best bazaars but if you really want to enjoy being in the tropics, going to its beaches is always a great idea. There are many beaches to explore and lots of mountainous regions too. In fact, when a Filipino thinks about the beautiful places in the Philippines, he will not be able to enumerate all of them because for each region or province –there is always a tourist spot –either because of its idyllic beaches, its countryside or its social, cultural and political relevance. Continue reading 
