Manila, Philippines

1. How far away is city center from the airport, and what's the easiest way to get there?

From Terminal 1 of the Manila airport, it takes less than 30 minutes to reach Makati. The easiest way to get to the city center is by booking a Grab or taxi at the airport.

2. What's the most affordable way for tourists to get around the city?

Jeepneys are the cheapest way to get around Manila, costing roughly 15 to 20 US cents depending on the mileage

3. Are there any travel passes or cards available for tourists to help save on transportation costs?

While there are no travel passes or cards available, The Department of Tourism is promoting the HOHO bus, which allows riders to hop on and hop off for a very affordable way to tour around the city.

4. Can visitors rent a car easily, and do they need an international driving permit for Manila?

It is easy to rent vehicles in Manila for a day or a week. Tourists need an international driver’s license to drive in the city.

5. What are some of the safest and cheapest ride sharing apps travelers can install on their phone?

Grab is a widely used ride-sharing app in the Philippines. You can also use motorcycle taxis if you have minimal luggage.

1. What are some of the best local food to try in Manila?

Balut, a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten warm, is a famous street food and superfood. The best way to eat balut is to crack the edge, add a bit of salt, and sip the broth. Sisig, made from pork ears and cheeks, is another popular dish. The meat is boiled, grilled, chopped into small pieces, and mixed with onion, pepper, and salt, before being served on a hot plate. For those looking for a vegetarian option, try Pinakbet, made with string beans, eggplant, lentils, tomato, squash, and more. Bulalo, a beef shank soup with corn, cabbage, and sweet potatoes served in a hot bowl, is another delicious choice.

2. What are some of the best food markets and popular restuarants in Manila?

You can get all of the local dishes at Mercadillo, a weekend bazaar located in Intramuros that showcases Filipino food. For a more formal dining experience, try Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Intramuros, where you can enjoy traditional Filipino dances while dining. Mary Grace Cafe and The Aristocrat Restaurant, known for its barbeque, are also great options.

3. Are there any convenience stores in the city to buy snacks and essentials?

You can buy snacks and essentials at 7-Eleven, Uncle John’s, Alfamart, and Dali, or try a local sari-sari store which are called so as they are known to sell a variety of goods. Most convenience stores are open 24/7, but the local shops are generally open until 10 p.m.

4. Are vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free food easily available?

Yes, vegetarian restaurants are available, and you can request vegetarian dishes at many restaurants, including Barbara’s, which also offers halo-halo, a dessert made of shaved ice topped with various fruits and other ingredients.

5. Can you drink tap water in Manila?

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Manila. Tourists are advised to buy bottled water from convenience stores.

6. Are there any pet-friendly restaurants in Manila that you'd recommend?

Most restaurants in Manila are generally pet-friendly, even large establishments.

7. Should you make reservations in advance for popular restaurants in Manila? If so, how can you typically book a table?

For small groups of 2-3 people, walk-ins are generally fine. However, for larger groups exceeding 10 people, it is recommended to book in advance, which can typically be done online.

8. Which food delivery apps are popular in Manila?

Grab Food and Food Panda are popular food delivery apps in Manila.

1. What healthcare facilities are available for tourists and foreigners Manila?

Tourists can find numerous clinics in Manila, many of which are open 24 hours. For more serious medical needs, there’s the Manila Doctors Hospital conveniently located in front of the city. Pharmacies are also widespread throughout the city.

2. Are simple painkillers and flu medicines available without a prescription?

Tourists can easily purchase painkillers over the counter without a prescription.

1. Should travelers consider getting a local SIM card? If so, would it be cheaper to grab one at the airport upon arrival or wait and buy one at a local shop in the city?

It is highly recommended that travelers obtain a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport. The airport has stations that sell these SIM cards, making it a convenient option.

2. Do most public areas, restaurants, and accommodations offer Wi-Fi access in Manila?

Wi-Fi is not readily available in public areas in Manila. However, restaurants and shops generally offer free Wi-Fi access.

1. Where can you usually find the best exchange rate in Manila?

The best exchange rates in Manila can be found in malls and at local money changers.

2. What works better for local transactions - cash or credit cards?

While major shops and restaurants accept credit cards, cash is the preferred method of payment for most local transactions, especially for public transportation.

1. Are there any medications or items travelers should avoid bringing into the country?

Travelers are strictly prohibited from bringing marijuana into the country. Even though marijuana is legal in some countries, it is categorized as an illegal drug in Manila. Furthermore, firearms, paints, and radioactive substances are also banned. For more information, head to the restricted items page of Phillipine Airline’s website: https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/before-you-fly/baggage-information/restricted-items.

2. What are some common scams tourists should be aware of in Manila?

A common scam in Manila is overpricing, particularly when tourists don’t have a licensed tour guide. It’s advised to book tours through reputable companies to avoid inflated prices.

3. Is Manila safe for solo and female travelers?

Manila is generally safe for solo and female travelers, contrary to misconceptions. However, it is recommended to avoid the slum area at night, especially between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. due to the presence of potentially intoxicated individuals. As a general safety measure, travelers should be vigilant about their belongings and aware of potential pickpockets or scammers.

4. Do some attractions or transportation options recommend buying passes in advance?

It is advantageous to book attractions in advance, especially during weekends, to avoid long queues. This can be done through tour guides or online platforms.

1. What are some places that both tourists and locals love to visit?

Both tourists and locals are drawn to Manila’s National Museum, which consists of three buildings: the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History. Another popular destination is Rizal Park, a significant historical site dedicated to the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Intramuros, a 400-year-old Spanish fortress, is also a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.

2. What hidden gems in Manila do you recommend outside of the usual tourist spots?

For those seeking less crowded attractions, the Las Pinas Bamboo Organ is a unique gem. This centuries-old organ features 900 bamboo pipes and is still playable today. While outside of Manila, a trip to the Pagsanjan Waterfalls promises a memorable experience.

3. What activities or attractions would be perfect for families with young kids in Manila?

Families with young kids can enjoy theme parks like Enchanted Kingdom and Star City, comparable to Disneyland. The Manila Ocean Park also offers an exciting underwater journey with diverse sea creatures.

4. Are there any activities or attractions suitable for senior citizens?

Manila caters well to senior citizens, with wheelchair-friendly pathways inside Intramuros and indoor attractions within malls. The Space and Time Museum provides captivating light shows, while the Lakbay Museo offers a culinary journey through the Philippines’ diverse regional cuisines.

5. What are some of the adventurous things to do in Manila for thrill-seekers?

Thrill-seekers can head to Subic Bay, a former American facility, for Tree Top Adventure. This adventure park features rope courses, bungee jumping, and a 200-meter zipline.

1. Where are the best places to find souvenirs in Manila?

For affordable souvenirs in a mall setting, SM malls, of which there are approximately 90 in the country, are a good choice. Within these malls, look for the store called Kultura (meaning “culture” in English), where you can find a variety of Filipino souvenirs. Tesoros and Balikbayan Handicrafts are recommended souvenir shops that also sell antiques. Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan City is another option for souvenirs like bags and shoes and offers lower prices.

2. What are some unique or must-have souvenirs to buy in Manila?

Unique souvenirs to buy in Manila include refrigerator magnets, shawls, tote bags with Manila prints, necklaces, and pearls. Pearls are a popular choice, although they can be pricey. Other popular choices are t-shirts, keychains, refrigerator magnets, traditional Barong Tagalog shirts for men (made from banana and pineapple fiber), and coffee cups.

3. Is bargaining common in the local markets of Manila? Any tips for tourists who want to try it?

Bargaining is common practice in local markets like Greenhills. As a tip, when bargaining, it’s customary to use the respectful term “po” at the end of sentences, which is a gesture of respect towards the vendor. For example, you could say, “May tawad po”, which translates to “Can I bargain?”.

4. What are the best shopping malls or outlet malls in Manila for brand lovers?

For brand lovers, the best shopping mall is Greenbelt in Makati, which houses high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Chanel, and Burberry. Other options for luxury brands include the shops in Solaire Resort and Casino and Okada Manila, which feature brands like Rolex.

1. What's the best time to travel to Manila weather-wise? Are there any seasons to avoid?

The best time to visit Manila weather-wise is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. This period offers cool, fine weather perfect for exploring. The wet season, from June to October, is best avoided as it brings frequent typhoons and heavy rainfall.

2. How long is the ideal duration for travelers to spend in Manila?

A trip of at least four days is recommended to fully experience Manila. This allows ample time to visit attractions like Intramuros, the National Museum, and the oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo.

3. What are some essential items travelers should pack?

Essential packing items include sunscreen, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius, and an “Instagram album” to capture the picturesque scenery.

1. Which neighborhoods in Manila have the best nightlife scene and events?

For a vibrant nightlife experience, Mabini Street in Manila offers numerous bars. Burgos Street in Makati, located near Manila, is another lively spot for those looking to unwind.

2. Which neighborhoods offer the best shopping spots in Manila?

Makati stands out as a premier shopping destination. Greenbelt Mall offers a luxury shopping experience with high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Chanel. Solaire Resort and Casino and Okada Manila also boast a selection of luxury brands, including Rolex. SM malls, found throughout the country, house Kultura stores that specialize in affordable Filipino souvenirs.

3. Which neighborhoods have the best views or scenery? Can you recommend a beautiful place to stay with a view?

The Baywalk area offers breathtaking views of Manila Bay, especially during sunset. It’s an ideal spot for photoshoots and capturing stunning vistas. One can enjoy a stay in Manila Hotel, which offers a view of the Manila Bay. It is also a historical hotel and lots of celebraties stayed here when visiting the city.

4. Which neighborhoods offer the best food spots in Manila?

Intramuros, with its Mercadilio, a weekend bazaar showcasing Filipino cuisine, provides a unique and immersive food experience. Barbara’s restaurant, also in Intramuros, offers a buffet accompanied by traditional Filipino dances.

5. Which neighbourhoods offer some of the cheapest place to stay?

City Garden Grand Hotel in Makati is a cheaper option.

6. What's your favorite place to stay in Manila, and why do you recommend it?

For tourists looking for hotels and resorts, Makati is a great place to stay and is known as the happiest city. City Garden Grand Hotel is a more affordable option compared to the pricier resorts and hotels in the city. City Garden Grand Hotel also features a rooftop restaurant and swimming pool called Firefly Roofdeck Restaurant, Makati that offers skyline views. Additionally, Savoy Hotel Manila is a great place to stay because it is within walking distance of Terminal 3 Airport and has a resort for shopping. The resort includes high-end brands like Rolex. Solaire Resort Entertainment City is another good option because it is near the Mall of Asia, one of the largest mall in the country. Several of these places are located near the casino as well.

1. Are there any annual festivals or special events in Manila or nearby cities that tourists shouldn't miss?

Tourists should not miss the Feast of the Black Nazarene which takes place every January 9th at the Quiapo Church in Manila. This year, nearly 6 million people attended the religious procession. Devotees believe the image of the Black Nazarene is miraculous, and that touching the image or rubbing a handkerchief on it will cure illnesses. Tourists may also enjoy the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a national holiday celebrated with a procession on December 8th inside the walls of Intramuros. The Bamboo Festival is another event that takes place every February and showcases bamboo.

1. Is tipping a common norm? If so, what's the usual tipping amount?

Tipping is a welcome gesture of appreciation, but not mandatory. It is common for people to tip if they received good service in restaurants.