Manila – The ugly duckling!
My sister lives in Philippines – so our first destination was Manila.
Manila has been a victim of bad repute. I am sure many of you travel enthusiasts would have read on many of the travel blogs about Philippines one single word – Avoid!
A city as any other capital city – full of traffic, pollution, expensive (in relative terms).
We did spend a few days in Manila and yes if we would have been not staying with my sister, we would have spent at least £38 a night approximately on a stay at decent hotel which is a 4 star.
But I would really want to write a few words about Manila and why despite its negatives I did like the city.
We landed at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 9PM and it took hardly 10 minutes to complete the immigration formalities and further 10 minutes to get our bags. We were impressed! (This never happen when we land in UK where we are residents for last few years)
As we stepped out of the airport and started our journey to the place we were staying, we experienced the heavy traffic of Manila.
The streets in Manila are always full of vehicles – from 4X4s to innovative modes of cheap public transport, be it a Limousine look alike mini-bus carrying around 25 people called “Jeepney” or a motorbike converted to tri-cycle which can carry from 5-6 passengers.
Even in that heavy traffic, there was no chaos, no honking.
It was close to Christmas time and the city was all decked up with beautiful lights ready to welcome Santa Claus. We could already feel the festive cheer around us.
With a lot of multinational companies setting up their base in Manila, the city has got everything to keep you busy – Sprawling malls, Shopping centres with bargain deals, Posh hotels, Casinos, musical fountains, Seafront restaurants and a vibrant night life. So, we do recommend, if you are willing to splurge a little and you are in Manila during December – Do visit and experience the Christmas lights in Manila and see this ugly duckling turn into a beautiful swan. As per the rambling couple recommendation this is a definite must experience.
