I prepared this guide back to help my clients go around and see interesting sights in the Philippines.
Historical/Cultural
Intramuros, Manila – Colonial Spanish city
Join the walking tour of Carlos Celdran. He gives lively and informative tours of the old walled city. Visit his blog for the schedule and prices. http://celdrantours.blogspot.com/
You can also go around Intramuros on your own. No need to get a guide outside Fort Santiago the city.
Be sure to visit Fort Santiago. There is a nice museum showing the life of Jose Rizal, a Philippine hero. There are student-guides there who give Fort Santiago tours for free. You can give them tips after the tour.
Ayala Museum
Conveniently located in the Greenbelt Area, Makati, the Ayala Museum is home to historical artifacts notably the Gold of Ancestors: Pre-Colonial Treasures in the Philippines. It will give a quick overview of the history of the Philippines.
Binondo, Chinatown
One of oldest Chinatowns in the world. The area can be chaotic but is full of culture and character.
The BIG Binondo Food WOK! Nibbling Our Way Through Chinatown http://oldmanilawalks.com/
Four hundred years of history and up to four hours of decadence! The flavors of China are now in Manila. Come eat, walk and lose those calories as we explore the breadth, the width and most intimate alleys of Manila’s 400 year-old Chinese quarter! Rate: P1,200.00/head (inclusive of tasting menu)
fun@oldmanilawalks.com
National Museum
http://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/
- Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila
Tuesdays-Sundays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A good collection of the works of Filipino National Artists. You should definitely see Juan Luna’s Spolarium, one of the largest paintings in the museum. The museum also houses some galleries that give an overview of the country’s history.
Rizal Park
The park dedicated to the national hero. Jose Rizal was a doctor, writer, artist, and athlete. His writings and death is said to have sparked the revolt against the Spanish colonial rule.
Shopping Malls/Restaurants
Filipinos love shopping malls. It is a national pastime.
- Ayala Greenbelt Mall – Makati
- Bonifacio High Street/Central/ Serendra – BGC
- SM Aura – BGC
The newest shopping mall in BGC. Sarah Jessica Parker was invited in the mall opening last May 2013.
- SM Mall of Asia – Pasay
- Greenhills Shopping Center
lots of cheap clothes, be careful not to buy cheap knock-offs
Outside Manila
Daytrips
Corregidor Island – appreciation of the war
How to get there: ferry
Batangas – diving and beaches
How to get there: hired van
Subic
How to get there: hired van
Laguna – hotspring pools
How to get there: hired van
Weekend trips – driving
http://www.philippinebeaches.org/cheap-vacations-beach-resorts-near-manila-tours/
Weekend trips – flights away
Boracay Island
The best beach in the country. You should definitely go here.
How to get here: flight to Caticlan (1hour) or Kalibo (1hour)
Hotel/Resort: Resorts in Station 1 are the quiet beach front places, a bit pricey– Two Seasons, Sur. 357 Boracay is a boutique resort in Station 3.
Bohol
Chocolate Hills, amazing beaches, more laid-back than Boracay
How to get here: flight to Puerto Princesa (1 hour) or chartered flights
Hotels: Amrita, Bellevue, Bohol Beach Club
Palawan
Amazing beaches. Underground river – recently voted as one of the emerging 7 wonders of the world.
How to get here: flight to Puerto Princesa or chartered flights
Hotels/Resort: The El Nido, Two Seasons
Cebu
The second central city in the Philippines
How to get here: flight to Cebu (1 hour)
Mactan Island – one hour from the Cebu airport
Hotels in Cebu: Tune Hotel (Cheap but very central)
Hotel in Mactan: Bluewater
Davao
The 3rd prosperous city in the Philippines. If you love eating and trying different fruits, this is the place to go.
How to get here: flight to Davao (1 hour)
The Pearl Farm – amazing beach resort
ERDC Properties 