Intramuros evokes a feeling of nostalgia---like, it’s good to live in the times when it was still under Spanish rule. Though built in the 16th century by Filipino slaves and their Spanish supervisors, being in this tourist destination feels like everything happened only yesterday.
This tourist destination is hedged in by districts that also have prominent niches in the history of Manila. Intramuros is bounded in the north by Pasig River and San Nicolas, San Miguel in the east, Port Area and Manila Bay in the west, and Paco and Ermita in the south. From Loton area, where the Metropolitan Theater and the Post Office are located, a jeepney (take Pier-bound via Intramuros jeepneys) or cab drive to this tourist destination is a mere 10 minutes.
Old buildings welcome the visitor in this tourist destination, just as the threshold of Intramuros in front of the Manila Cathedral. Some date back to the Spanish rule of the city, some from the Japanese time, and several more in much later times but nonetheless historical. They have survived the years through restoration works initiated by the Intramuros Administration found at the Palacio Del Gobernador, the “Malacanang Palace” of Intramuros just in front of Plaza de Roma and the Manila Cathedral.
“Ayuntamiento” or sometimes called “Casas Consistoriales” is now a booming commercial area, northeast of the Manila Cathedral. This tourist destination also has Plaza de Roma, a small park in front of the Cathedral that constantly reminds of the Vatican in Rome. Plaza San Ignacio, west of the Cathedral along Arzobispo Street is an old building facade whose ruins refresh us of the way Intramuros was a century ago. Further west is Postigo del Palacio, or guard post of the Palace, an entry in the wall from the golf course outside that still retains its Spanish Baroque architecture.
Southwest end of Anda Street is the Baluarte Plano Luneta de Sta. Isabel. This Tourist destination in Intramuros is a main fort west of the wall fortification looking out on Bonifacio Drive. It used to be a main defense point that protected the city from attacks coming from the west, that is, from Manila Bay. East of the cathedral, along Magallanes Street, is the Colegio de Sta. Rosa. Nearby are the clamshell exhibits, The ECJ Building, Hidalgo Monument, San Agustin Church and Museum, Bahay Tsinoy, and the Plaza San Luis.
Intramuros is an enclave where history has been preserved for posterity to view and treasure. It is also a tourist destination to showcase a saga of courage and perseverance.
Coming from the countryside into Manila a traveler may be astounded by the distant sight of thick smug that overshadows the metropolis. Can any spot in Metro Manila still offer fresh, woodland air? The good news is that there still are. One of them is right smack where greeneries still abound.
A refreshing experience of the woods and its wildlife in a safe environment. Quezon City harbors such a place. Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife was started in the mid Martial Law years (late 70s to early 80s). It’s an 80-hectare city forest reserve for woodland and animal life. It is along the Elliptical Road in Diliman, Quezon City, across the Quezon Memorial Circle.
From downtown Manila travel takes, via the Espana-Quezon Avenue route, some 45 minutes to an hour. Public transportation plying Quiapo to Philcoa or Fairview will never fail to drive past this Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City. It’s right at the very tip of Quezon Avenue right across Kidney Center and Lung Center of the Philippines.
Named “Philippine Parks and Wildlife” in the Marcos administration, it was changed to “Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife” in the reign of President Corazon Aquino. This Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City boasts of a number of caged wild animals and tree and plant species, plus a vast playground, deeply shaded promenades, a man-made lagoon, eatery, huts and cottages, among others.
Lots of school excursions, tourist trips, movie and commercial shooting, and casual visits are scheduled in this Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City. Even health buffs like joggers and volleyball and badminton aficionados frequent it, especially in early mornings. Picnic grooves and huts are best for outdoor meals and helpings are available at the eatery beside the lagoon.
The lagoon is littered with benches at its edges under big tree shades. A sunken amphitheater is at its bank. It is a favorite hang out of lovers, book readers, bonding families, idle visitors, and students rehearsing a drama or concert. Others celebrate religious fellowships there and display public communion with their Creator. The lagoon has an extended covered port where curious visitors can venture farther and nose around for what may be hiding in the lake.
Life activities of men, the wilds, and nature burst with vibrancy at Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wild Life. This wooded haven standing right in the midst of business affords travelers with an accessible Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City.
The bustling city of Makati is home to towering skyscrapers and considered the busiest CBD in Manila. If one is in Makati for business, then it’s a good idea to stay at a Makati hotel that is nearby, and if one is in this city to shop, there are many places to stay at that bring one to a walking distance to Glorietta or Greenbelt.
Jupiter Suites, also known as the Jupiter Arms Hotel, has recently upgraded to better serve their guests with bigger rooms and provided Internet access to all their guests. Thankfully though, what has stayed the same despite the many changes that this Makati hotel has undergone is its location. Jupiter Suites can be found along Jupiter Street and is walking distance to Ayala Avenue and Gil Puyat Street which is where all the businesses are found. Jupiter Suites is also a 20 minute walk to the biggest malls in Makati, Glorietta and Greenbelt or if one is not up to it, a cab can be hailed or an air conditioned jeepney can be flagged down. The standard suite at this Makati hotel is only Php 2,400 while the family suite costs Php 3,700. Inclusive of this amount that one pays per night at Jupiter Suites is set breakfast. The facilities of this Makati hotel include a bar, a coffee shop and a business center.
Now if a 5-star hotel is what one is looking for or a lodging that has complete facilities and closer to Ayala Avenue than Jupiter Suites, then why not go for Mandarin Oriental? The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has developed several hotels around the world and they have made sure that each one conforms to the highest standards in hospitality. The Mandarin Oriental Makati can be found in the corner of Ayala and Paseo de Roxas and though right in the center of the business district, one will find comfort in the fact that it is a respectable distance from the rush hour traffic. Room rates start at Php 7,300 per night at this Makati hotel and as many will attest, one will not regret a penny that one spends when staying at the Mandarin Oriental.
Regardless of whether one opts to stay at the 3-star lodging Jupiter Suites or have a luxurious vacation at the 5-star Mandarin Oriental, one will find that either one of these two Makati hotels can offer more just a peaceful night’s sleep. In fact these Makati hotels are more than adequately equipped to cater to one’s every need.
Metro Manila, like any developed metropolis, has many different kinds of transportations. You can go from one place to another with ease. There are such varieties of transportation from the casual ones to the indigenous ones.
If it is your first time in Metro Manila it will not be difficult to get around. You can ride a cab and tell the driver where you want to go (generally they know all the routes) just make sure you check the meter once in a while ‘coz there are some bad guys who's always on guard for chances of taking advantage. By the way, the plug down rate in a cab is Php30.00 and Php2.50 per additional km (FYI). And, If you want to escape traffic jam, there are trains connecting one city to another with a relatively low fare rate. matrix of fares are available at the stations. If you’re looking for comfort and security these transportation means are available. Or, if you want to feel like a Very-Impiortant-Person (VIP) there is a long list of rent-a-car service.
As soon as you get used to Manila, must try ride is the jeepney; an innovative, one of a kind means of transportation in the Philippines. They have certain routes and you’ll know their route by their sign board on front of the windshield. The minimum fare is Php7.00 per 7 km. and they usually have this fare matrix displayed inside the vehicle for reference.
For the adventurous people out there, we have what is called “calesa” which is a horse drawn cart that will bring you from one point to the other. You can usually find a calesa in Intramuros and Divisoria and along the busy streets of Manila. The usual minimum fare in a calesa is Php10.00 per person. You can bring three of your friends to come along. This transportation is usually ridden for strolling of tourists and for loading heavy shopping bags from the market place for the locals.
We also have the tri-bike or as affectionately known in the Philippines a “trike”. This is a motorbike with passenger side car. Usually it is used for transportation inside subdivisions or places with buildings with near proximity. Two to three people can be accommodated on the trike and the usual fare is Php7.00 to Php10.00 each. You can access nearby places with this transportation means without walking!
Well they say that walking is good for the health, no doubt about that but in case you get tired of it, the above listed means of transportation is a good guide for you. So now you know, enjoy the ride and explore the city. Ciao and good luck!
Manila, the capital city of the Philippines offers several attractions to travelers looking for that unforgettable vacation. The Filipinos have a rich culture and Manila is the melting pot of something that’s historic and traditional with a touch of modernity that we all look for when we’re away from home.
Relive a dream of grandeur at the Manila Hotel, an establishment imbued with public interest as the Filipinos consider this a part of their heritage. The Manila Hotel has seen many events in history and to this day stands magnificently tall and proud. In fact the Manila Hotel not only prides itself in being a 5-star hotel that strictly adheres to international standards, events, meetings and conventions are frequently held here. The rooms at this hotel have luxurious amenities and are all elegantly furnished with centralized air conditioning. Each room has a mini bar, cable television, in-room sage, bathroom, a bedside radio and a telephone. Their suites at the Manila Hotel have a 24-hour butler service. The deluxe room at this hotel costs US$ 135 and their most expensive suite, the 2 bedroom Gabriela Silang, is US $ 1,291.50.
An alternative to the Manila Hotel is Bayview Park Hotel which also boasts of almost a century old history and can be found in Roxas Boulevard. Just a couple of minutes away from the historical sites of Intramuros, boutique-style 5-star hotel offers comfort and privileges to all their guests. The Bayview Park Hotel has a different rate for Filipinos and their superior room is only Php 1,200 if it’s without breakfast but if the guest wants breakfast every morning during their stay, the rate is Php 1,600 for 2 nights.
The facilities at Bayview Park Hotel have been designed to provide a relaxing atmosphere during the guest’s stay and to provide them with everything they might possibly need. The coffee shop serves delicious meals everyday, while the bar and the lounge serve as a good rendezvous. The swimming pool at Bayview Park Hotel can be found on the rooftop so guests get to enjoy the view while doing some laps. The hotel also has a gym for the fitness fanatics. Bayview Park Hotel’s mini Internet café is equipped with the latest technology and to cap the day, they offer massage services.
If it is luxury one is after when in Manila and would like to stay at a 5-star hotel that is close to everything important, then these two options, The Bayview Park Hotel and the Manila Hotel are places to consider.
What’s the fastest travel option to get from Manila to North Quezon City, and vice versa? Take the Quezon Avenue-Roosevelt Avenue-Congressional Avenue links.
There are various travel options from Manila to Quezon City, and vice versa. There’s the Blumentritt-A.Bonifacio-Del Monte travel links, and the E. Rodriguez-Aurora Boulevard travel links. But these travel options are often breeding grounds of unwanted choke points and bottle necks countless times of the day. Heavy traffic almost suddenly builds up any time on these thoroughfares.
After extricating oneself from heavy traffic along Espana, exit the Welcome Monument (boundary of Manila and Quezon City) by taking Quezon Avenue towards Pantranco or Roces. Just travel past Welcome rotunda and it should be lots of traffic relief. Quezon Avenue should be allowing more cool wind against the face. This travel option leads to a U-turn slot at Roces to double back Quezon Avenue then turn right to Roosevelt Avenue.
Roosevelt is easy driving until the intersection at Del Monte. The traffic light there seems lethargic at times but past that is a travel option exhilaratingly smooth all the way to Del Pilar crossing. Del Pilar is haunted by some undisciplined motorized spooks that clog the intersection. Mostly are construction and delivery trucks from nearby factories. But past that, even along the busy frontage of Munoz Market, is fast and easy driving. The continuous flow that cuts off the main junction of EDSA and Roosevelt through a U-turn slot accounts for this, and vehicles end up smoothly double backing EDSA to either go straight or turn right on Congressional Avenue. We turn right.
Congressional Avenue is simply a motorist’s dream---well, except for some oblivious jeepney drivers, that is. They like lingering in the middle of the road, chatting or waiting forever for passengers. They’re stashed only at the starting point of the stretch, anyway, and past them (and some tentative road diggings) this travel option leads swiftly down Mindanao and finally Visayas Avenue. From Visayas it’s easy travel to various parts of North Quezon City.
This trek from Manila to North Quezon City, or vice versa, takes only about an hour to travel. Other travel options would take at least an hour and a half---or more in a really big traffic build-up, especially in rainy season.
A journey from Manila to North Quezon City shouldn’t take so much of one’s precious time. With clever and safe on-hands and on-road maneuvers plus the quickest travel option in town, it should be a touchdown in no time.
Makati City, Philippines is the business district of the country. If you are going here for business purposes or for pleasure, staying at the Makati Prime Tower Suites is a good idea. Located at the heart of Makati City with 110 service suites, this hotel is a good choice for short or long-term stay. Hotel rooms like executive studios, suites with one or two bedrooms and luxury penthouses are available. All hotel rooms in the Makati Prime Tower Suites are fully air-conditioned.
The Makati Prime Tower Suites has easy access to the Domestic and International Airports due to its strategic location. Bar-hopping at night is not difficult at all. If you are into a shopping spree, popular malls like Ayala Center and Power Plant Mall are just nearby. This hotel also has function rooms that can accommodate up to 45 people. A hotel like this is a great venue for company meetings, conferences, and family gatherings.
The Makati Prime Tower Suites is located at Kalayaan Avenue Corner Mercado St., Bel-air, Makati City, Philippines.
There are five types of hotel rooms available in Makati Prime Tower Suites. These are Studio Suite, One-Bedroom Suite, Two-Bedroom Suite, Penthouse Suite, and Presidential Suite. All hotel rooms have air-conditioning, cable television, internet connectivity, balcony or deck, shower with bathtub, telephone, private toilet and bath, and free breakfast.
A Studio Suite hotel room has a queen-sized or twin beds with a maximum of 2 guests per room. It's lowest rate is at USD $38.
A One-bedroom Suite hotel room also has a queen-sized or twin beds. If you want an extra bed you just add $10. It has a maximum of 2 guests per room and the lowest rate is at USD $48. The Two-bedroom Suite hotel room has a queen-sized bed with an additional $10 charge for an extra bed. Lowest rate is at USD $68.
A Penthouse Suite hotel room has a bedroom with a spacious living room. The lowest rate is at USD $78. The Presidential Suite hotel room has two bedrooms with the lowest rate at USD $88.
The Makati Prime Tower Suites also offer their facilities and amenities with warm smiles of their experienced, professional, and friendly hotel staff. The hotel's facilities and amenities include a cafe and restaurant, 24-hour internet connectivity, outdoor swimming pool, hotel room service, 24-hour transportation, car rental service, laundry service, parking facilities, safe deposit box, foreign exchange counter, minimart, hair and beauty salon, and massage service.
If ever you visit Makati City, the Makati Prime Tower Suites is the perfect place to stay. Your comfort and convenience is rest assured.
Las Pinas City, Philippines dubs as a "City of Unparalleled Progress". Las Pinas City is one of the earliest settlements in Manila. From its roots to the present day, Las Pinas City has proven itself as a representative of rapid growth.
The beginnings of Las Pinas City can be traced back all the way to the 17th century when it used to be a barrio of Paranaque. It began as a little sleepy fishing village with only a little more than a thousand residents.
Father Diego Cera, a Spanish Missionary, gave Las Pinas a good push forward back in 1795 which led to the establishment of the Las Pinas Church in 1819 and the construction of the world famous Bamboo Organ. The commencement of infrastructure paved the way for industrial development in the area. The building of roads and bridges in what was to become Las Pinas City sparked the beginnings of industries, which included dye-making, salt production, and handicrafts.
Las Pinas City was also the scene of many battles between Filipino revolutionary fighters and the Spanish troops. These were dark days for Las Pinas City, nevertheless the people were able to rise from the bloody turmoil and push forward.
The construction of the South Superhighway gave Las Pinas a boost and the city was placed as first class. The close proximity of Las Pinas to Manila caught the eye of real estate companies and other investors. The coastal town was eventually transformed to an urban center catering to large industries.
Since then Las Pinas was recognized to have taken rapid strides in urbanization and has seen steady economic growth.
Las Pinas is home to the Las Pinas Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It stands as the voice of the city's business community. The organization's vision is to promote economic growth in Las Pinas City and advance the benefits of its members.
It aims to provide strategic business services and local and international networking to support the members of the chamber. The Las Pinas Chamber of Commerce and Industry is one of the 17 local chambers of commerce in the National Capital Region.
The chamber hosts monthly and bi-monthly meetings, conferences, and projects.
The most well known festival of Las Pinas is the International Bamboo Organ Festival. It is a week-long festival which highlights the world famous Bamboo Organ. The Bamboo Organ is a functioning instrument and was first played in 1821.
Accommodations in Las Pinas would range from Php 400 to more than Php 1,000. Las Pinas City is very accessible and is just moments away from Manila. If you wish to see one of the most historic sights in the country, or you may just be a lover fine music, or you may want to see what business opportunities await you try checking out Las Pinas City. You will surely enjoy your stay and have a first hand experience of Philippine history.
[Tags]Las Pinas, Philippines, Luzon[/Tags]
One of the most popular and advanced cities in the Philippines, Makati City plays home to numerous sightseeing spots and exciting special events. Tourists in the city are always ensured of relaxing and wonderful visit to the place for it features world-class and first-rate hospitality service providers. Additionally, people can also have an enjoyable and remarkable time with their friends and families because the city also features attractive restaurants and bars. Hence, to have a safe and worry-free travel to Makati City, Philippines, it is necessary that tourists refer to Makati travel guides to have a closer look on business establishments and activities that they can do in the area.
Tourist Attractions in Makati City, Philippines
A special section in Makati travel guides that is truly helpful for travelers is the tourist attractions section. In this part of the guides, people can have knowledge on things to do and places to visit in the city. Contrary to the knowledge of many individuals that the place is only popular for tall buildings, Makati City also features historical attractions like Guadalupe Ruins, American Cemetery and Monuments, as well as Libingan ng mga Bayani. Meanwhile, for those who are in the mood for shopping, Makati travel guides also offer knowledge on best shopping places in the city, which commonly include Glorietta, Power Plant Mall, and Greenbelt.
Hotels in Makati City, Philippines
For tourists who are new to the City of Makati, Philippines, other attractions in the place are the topnotch hotels. Most Makati travel guides feature five star and four star hotels in the area such as Makati Shangri-La Hotel, The Peninsula Manila, and Mandarin Oriental Manila. Hence, to help tourists look for best valued hotels, they can always make advance reservations at the famous Dusit Hotel Nikko, Oxford Suites Makati, and Ascott Makati. For people who are on tight budget, they can always check out the features of Makati travel guides on Makati lodges and inns like Manila Elks Lodge, Kagitingan Lodge, and Vinta Lodge.
Restaurants in Makati City, Philippines
Another attractive feature in Makati travel guides is the section wherein all the popular restaurants and bars in the place are described. The locations, menus and specialties of famous dining places such as Aveneto Pizzeria Ristorante, Bread Talk, and Almon Marina, are available in Makati travel guides, so travelers have nothing to worry about finding these restaurants. Meanwhile, for the convenience of tourists, the travel guides also feature fast food places in the city including Burger King, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Jollibee.
Manila is the capital of the Philippines. It is a vibrant city with many malls and establishments to visit like restaurants. There are many restaurants in Manila where you can dine and eat with your family and friends.
1. Abe
Abe is a restaurant that offers Kapampangan dishes or meals that originated from Pampanga a province in the north of Manila. Many kapampangans are known for their culinary skills and their dishes are very tasty. Their desserts are also delicious as well. Some of their best sellers are kare-kare, fish, vegetables, peanut soup. This is a restaurant where you can try some of the Philippines’ best cuisine. The restaurant is usually packed so it is advisable to get a reservation ahead of time. Another restaurant which is just across the Abe caters to the same type of cuisine. It is called Larry’s Café and it is Abe’s partner company. This restaurant is situated on Serendra Piazza at Bonifacio High Street in Global city. You can contact them at 02-8560526. The cost of each meal is between ten dollars up to twenty dollars.
2. Cafe Juanita
This restaurant can be found in a corner in Pasig City. This is twenty minute ride from Makati without the heavy traffic. Finding the place can be adventurous because it is like discovering a hidden place. The restaurant’s design transports you back to the old time with unique and old artifacts which customers can buy for reasonable prices. They serve Filipino meals in fusion with European dishes. You can have the Filipino Bagnet which is fried pork with fermented sauce from fish and the Ratatuy which is their vesion of the popular French dish. It is situated at West Capitol Drive in Kapitolyo, Pasig City. You may get a reservation by calling their telephone at 02-632 0357. The prices range from ten dollars up to twenty dollars.
3. Cafe Ysabel
This is a restaurant designed with the theme about the long history of the Philippines. It is managed and owned by one of the Philippines’ best chef, Mr. Gene Cruz. Café Ysabel serves international dishes as well as Kapampangan dishes. They also offer several concoctions for coffee. You can taste different kinds of how to make coffee here. This restaurant is found on Guevarra Street in the corner of Claro M. Recto in San Juan City. The price of a dish starts at twenty dollars. You may visit their website on www.cafeysabel.com for more information and call them at 02- 726 9326 for reservations.
4. Heaven ‘n' Eggs
This is a restaurant in the Eastwood in Libis, Quezon City. The offer continental food as well as Filipino dishes. They are popular for the pancakes, pasta and sandwiches they offer. You can also order the longanniza they buy from Vigan which is the Filipino version of sausage made of garlic and pork. You may call them at 02- 912 1172 for more information. The food there is priced at five dollars up to twenty dollars.
5. Razon's of Guagua
This can be a smaller restaurant in comparison to others in this list because they only serve desserts with ice like the Filipino halo-halo. Halo-halo is the Philippine’s best dessert especially during summer. It is made with different fruits and topped with a sweet flan or ice cream. The price of the desserts starts at two dollars to five dollars each.
6. The Red Crab -
This is the best restaurant for those who love seafood. They specialize in crabs and they offer different types of dishes with the crab. They also offer a table for buffet customers who are interested to try everything on their menu. They have many branches all over the city. One of the popular branches is in Greenbelt in Makati City. The price of a dish starts at ten dollars. You may call them at 02-757 4129 for your reservation.
Food is always apart of a country’s culture. We can really experience and appreciate another country when we try the food they offer. In the Philippines there is surely one dish that you would keep asking for more.