Manila is the capital and one of the oldest cities in the Philippines. The
city was founded in 1571 and is also the most densely populated city proper
in the world. A distinctive southeast Asian megapolis, Manila attracts
heaps of visitors ever year for its battle-hardened past and colonial
architecture. The city has emerged as the frontrunner of national center of
politics and commerce. City’s skyline is a clinical show of 16th
century Spanish architectural enchantments and modern high-rise building.
The same can be said about its synthesis of Spanish and Southeast Asian
street foods.
Things to do in Manila
San Agustin Church
A moniker of 17th century Spanish colonial construction, the San
Agustin Church is one of the most noteworthy monuments in Manila and the
Philippines. It was constructed in Baroque architecture and is the most
acclaimed and popular Roman Catholic Church in the city. It interiors are
hallmarked by near-perfect equilibrium, and quite a lot of 3-D carvings.
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park is a privately-owned oceanarium in the city. The park is
home to over 14000 marine organisms, large and small, that together recount
to over 275 species. It is the first marine park in the country to host a
penguin park facility- Trails to Antarctica. The park presents a separated
view of these animals in several theme-based sections across 3000 cubic
meters of sea water.
Rizal Park
Dedicated to the national hero and the iconic figure of Filipino resistance
against the Spanish colonial regime- Dr. Jose Rizal, the Rizal Park is a
state-of-the-art garden in Manila. Tourists should visit this park to see
its many statues and monuments related to the country’s violent past. The
most famous monument here a 100-year old memorial named Monument of Rizal
that implies the place where Rizal was executed.
Best Time to Visit Manila
The best time to book flights from Phoenix to Manila is from December to
March. Visitors can book flights from PHX to MNL during winter season to
enjoy Christmas and New Year celebrations. It is advised to book Manila
flights in advance to avoid paying more during peak season.