Paco Park, Manila

Advantages: Easy to locate,educational and free
Disadvantages: Open field and far parking place

...If you are in for historical places, then you might be interested in this park. This is formerly known as Bagumbayan (that was during its Spanish Regime). Later in modern times a few decades ago, it was renamed as Rizal Park; at of the present time, this park is now called the Luneta Park. This is where the Philippine's National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal"s monument was. This monument is being guarded by 2 cadets in shifting day and night, who marches and checks around the monument intervally and alternately. Rain or shine, rest assured the guards are there standing, guarding, and checking until the next shifting guards or cadets come to replace them. This is said to be the place where the hero was executed by firing squad during Spanish Regime. So don't miss to visit this one of the historical site whenever you come to Philippines.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Vibrant. Warm.hospitable people. Cheap
Disadvantages: Considerable poverty

...I have been to Manila four times and I like the city. More specifically I like the Fillipinos who are warm and friendly,very hospitable and have a thoroughly infectious love of life. They have been described as the Latin Americans of South East Asia and most certainly they are markedly different from Malays,Thais,Vietnamese or Indonesians. Manila,the capital and chief city of the Philippines is also very much the artistic and commercial capital. It is located in Central Luzon Island and enjoys good air communications with the US, Europe, Australia and regional centres in Asia. Night life is alive and well in Manila and it is comparatively cheap; much cheaper,for example,than Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Hong Kong.The favourite beer in town in San Miguel which is owned by a company based in the Philippines. Makati... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: shopping, night life
Disadvantages: polluted,

..., you might not be allowed to drive in the city on a Wednesday. Shopping is good in Manila and cheaper than Singapore or Malaysia for instance, especially for well known brands. Among the city Malls that could hold an attraction for the visitor are Glorietta and Gaisano Mall. Above all, the best thing about Manila or even the Philippines are its people, they are the friendliest, most easy-going people in the region, even though deeply religious. Nearly all taxis are adorned with a Jesus o Mary figurine and sermons and prayer groups regularly take place in city parks. Remember to have a nick name ready for yourself when you visit the Philippines, you will definitely be asked to give one. If your name is John, you'll probably get called Johnny or Jo-Jo or something equally cutesy. Its a sign of the trust and friendship... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful