Manila Travel Guide Manila is the capital of the Philippines, a beautiful country in Southeast Asia which consists of about 7100 islands. Manila, popularly known as 'Maynila' in Filipino is situated on the eastern shore of Manila Bay. Manila is often called as 'the pearl of the orient' and is one of the most cosmopolitan city in Southeast Asia. With more than million in population, Manila is vibrant, pulsating metropolis of Philippines. The City of Manila belongs to Metro Manila which consist of 17 cities and municipalities. With enchanting picturesque view from Pasig river, one can be easily fooled into thinking it as a painted backdrop. The river is crossed by a number of bridges in Manila. You can experience exotic views of sunset, majestic beauties in Baywalk which lies in front of Manila bay. With its world-class shopping malls, luxury hotels, public markets, sky scrapers, Manila could look like any other metropolitan city you have ever visited. Geography Manila is situated at the mouth of Pasig river on the eastern shores of Manila Bay, which is on the western side of Luzon. Manila lies about 950 km northeast of Hongkong and 2400 km northeast of Singapore. Manila is bordered by several cities like Navotas, Caloocan city, Quezon city, San Juan, Mandaluyong city etc. The city is divided into 16 geographical district. Climate The best time to visit Manila is between November to February which is regarded as the cool season and is characterised by cooler temperature, low humidity, clear skies and little rainfall. Language: Filipino and English is widely spoken and the common languages of Manila. Many Filipino have a keen interest in Western cultures, music, movies... when they speak English you will have no problems understanding them. Local Transportation: Despite traffic, local transportation in Manila is quite good. You can easily get Jeepneys (highly decorated colorful buses), Jeeps, Taxis, FX (minivans), Tricycles (motorcycles with modified side cars),MRT or rent a car from one of the hotels in Manila. Beside these, you can also find private rented cars, bikes etc. at leading hotels. History Manila got it's name from Maynilad which means 'There is nilad' and Nilad is white flowered mangrove plant that grew abundance in the area. From small fishing village on the bank of Pasig River, Manila grew into the seat of the colonial government of Spain over the last centuries. The layout of the city was planned during Spanish rule as a set of communities surrounding Intramuros which is original walled city of Manila. First Spanish, then the American's controlled the islands of the Philippines. During the American rule, Manila became a very known city in the orient. The city was destroyed during World War II but was eventually re-built. Manila was captured on January 2 1942 by Japanese forces but later on February 5, 1945 American general Douglas Mac Arthur returned it to the Philippines. On February 23, Manila was liberated. On November 8, 1975, former president Ferdinand Marcos enacted the city of Manila and surrounding towns and cities into an independent entity, Metropolitan Manila for the better management of the affair of fastest growing region. Now its function is carried out by the Metro Manila Development Authority. Place of attraction Pasig River It is located nearby Manila. Pasig river has been considered as 'Cradle of Civilization' in Manila. You can experience the spectacular view around Pasig river. Manila Bay Manila bay is the historic point where famous 'mock battle' occured between American and Spaniards in 1898. It is the wonderful location where you get a chance to experience a beauty blended with historical value. Intramuros Intramuros, located on the bank of the Pasig river was founded and re-built in 1517 by Spanish. In Intramuros you will see many attractive historic buildings, surviving walls despite being destroyed partially during Second World War II era. Rizal Park Spreading over 60 hectares Rizal park is fully decorated with acres of open lawns, ornamental gardens, green areas. You will see many people jogging, relaxing, strolling around, practising tai chi, stick fighting or kung fu in the park giving themself a break from crowd. There is a planetarium, chinese and japanese garden, fountains, floral clock and roller skating area. Rizal park is one of the largest park in Southeast asia. This park is named after Dr. Jose Rizal, The great Phillipine anti colonial fighter and thinker. Museum of Phillipine people It is located in Rizal park where you will find lots of information about Philippines and it's people. Do not forget to see the skull of oldest known native Filipino dating back around 24000 BC. Corrgidor A small beautiful island located in the mouth of Manila bay where US-Filipino fought against invading Japanese. Now the island has turn into a nation shrine. Olongapo It is the place where huge naval base, Subic used to stationed. It is a great area for divers. Now it is open to sightseers. Pagsanjan It is the popular place to shoot the rapids in canoes. Rizal shrine It is a historical place where Philippines' national here Joseph Rizal spend his last few days before he was executed on December 30, 1896. There you will find lots of thing associated with the Philippines' national hero. San Agustin Church It is one of the oldest church which survived 2 fires and 7 earthquakes. Chinese cemetery In order to burn many Chinese, who were not allowed on the Spanish cemetery, Lim Ong and Tam Quien Sien founded this cemetery in mid 1850.