The world’s most densely populated city sits on the estuary of the Pasig River. Colonised by the Spanish in the 1500s, the city was finally taken by US forces in 1898. During this time, Manila enjoyed a social and economic lift but after the Second World War, during the fight for its recapture, US forces raised the city to the ground. In 1946 Manila became capital of the newly independent republic and these days, despite the smog and pollution of an overcrowded city, Manila boasts a creative edge that puts it in a class of its own. Take a flight and package holiday to Manila and experience this dynamic metropolis with a heart of gold.
Take a flight to Manila and you’ will probably land in terminal one of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Search flights from Dublin to Manila or flights from Cork to Manila to find the latest deals. On arrival take an Ube express bus or Grab taxi to your destination. English is widely spoken in the Philippines and, beside Filipino, is one of the national languages. The official currency is the Philippine Peso, but US Dollars are sometimes used too. The time zone is GMT+8.
There are only two seasons in the Philippines: wet and dry. Take your package holidays in Manila between December and February to experience the best weather, when temperatures hover in the mid to high twenties. Come between March and May and you may find the hot, humid days make sightseeing difficult. The monsoon rains are at their highest between July and September. It is not a popular time to visit but visitors taking city breaks to Manila during this time find that it rarely rains all day and it can be an interesting time to come.
Manila is a bustling metropolis and there is no shortage of things to do there. Even if you are just in Manila for the weekend you will have plenty of time to discover some of the city’s gems.
Take a flight and hotel in Manila and you will be greeted with traditional Filipino hospitality. Make sure you see some of the city’s top spots, so you can discuss them with the locals you meet. Located in Intramuros, Fort Santiago is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains and is home to a fascinating museum. Another popular attraction is the bamboo organ of Las Piñas in the St Joseph Parish Church. Tours include a concert. Visit the San Augustin Church. The Philippine’s oldest stone-built church is a source of local pride. The attached museum contains a large collection of ecclesiastical art. The Ayala Museum, devoted to local history, is also worth a visit.
Visitors taking city breaks in Manila always come home talking about the food. Whether you are eating on the street or in a trendy restaurant, you are bound to find something delicious. Banana-Q, or deep fried, caramalised plantain, is a firm street favourite and you will find fresh coconuts for sale everywhere. It is the perfect way to cool down. Spend even just a weekend in manila and you should definitely try fish or chicken balls. Being close to the sea, Manila is home to some great fish restaurants. Visit Tasay Sea Market for some of the best locally caught fish.
Take your package holidays in Manila and you will find no shortgae of unusual souvenirs. Shop for designer labels at the Greenbelt Mall or SM Megamall or discover a more authentic side to the city at the Divisoria Market. Take home some Filipino sweets or handwoven bags and purses or splash out on a piece of South Sea golden pearl jewellery or beautiful traditional fabrics.