What are some fun things to do in Manila?

Stephen Fletcher

What are some fun things to do in Manila?

I spend around 6 months each year in the Philippines, much of that in Manila. Here are a few of my favourite things to do in this vibrant city.

1. Visit Ocean Park, situated on the bay front close to Rizal park and Ermita. Here there are a number of aquatic exhibits and shows daily. Numerous stores and restaurants/ cafés so many make this a whole day experience. Numerous packages are available making this an affordable attraction. https://www.manilaoceanpark.com
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2. Go for a Segway tour around Intramuros, these short and again affordable tours are great fun, a novel way to see the old city. White Knight Tours

3. Spend an evening watching a live band at one of the many bar/ restaurants scattered throughout the city. I generally watch my favourite band Side A, but when they are not performing there is always a live show somewhere. The most affordable for those on a budget are Padi’s Point where a few beers, snacks and live band can be less that 500php. Padi's Point Bar & Restaurant, But I am generally found in Historia Bar in Quezon City, Historia Boutique Bar and Restaurant, 12 Monkeys bar in Ortigas 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub (@12monkeysph) • Instagram photos and videos, or 19 East in Sucat, 19 East. Generally an evening of good music, good food and a few beers can be had for around 1000php.

4. Take a day visit to Corregidor Island, this Island is now a monument to the loses on all sides during WW2. Boat departs from Manila bay, just behind the Mall Of Asia early morning and return late afternoon, tour includes round trip ferry to the islands, tour of the island and lunch. There are additional charges for tour of the tunnels. https://corregidorphilippines.com

5. Go shopping, Manila has multiple large air-conditioned malls, where there are cinema, bowling, shopping and restaurants. Often the malls have sales which makes your money go further.

6. Go to a street market, head to Baclaren and walk through a street market which open every evening,

There are many many more activities and events being held throughout Manila, but the City is hot, Sweltering, Noisy And sometimes Claustrophobic. So consider day trips to the beach at Batangas, or Puerto Galera only a couple of hours from Manila. Or visit Taal volcano again only a couple of hours from Manila.