Manila is a chaotic, congested, polluted, crowded and dirty city. There is even a large rubbish dump in the middle of the city where children will play in it and scavage for stuff, but conditions have largely improved over the years and there is a strong sense of community among the people living there. Contrast it to the tall skyscrapers in Makati city, this makes Manila a city of contrasts, a city of widening inequality, which is evident in many Asian developping cities.

However, I do not want to sound like a pessimistic here, after an angsty post about the public transport in Manila. I would like to say that there are indeed peaceful, green areas in the city for you to escape, away from the hustle and bustle. One of the green spaces is Rizal Park, a place with wide boulevards for strolling or walking your dog, as well as water fountains and an orchidarium (entrance fees apply). Situated nearby are two national museum buildings which is a good place to visit for the history buff or someone who just wants to know more about the development of the Philippines from former colonial Spanish times.

beautiful fountains set amidst tall skyscapers of Manila

random statue at Rizal park

My favourite part of the city is Intramuros, which is like the old town in many European cities. You can see the walled city of Intramuros with many buildings still preserving their Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the Manila Cathedral which is modern and its high ceilings offer a new perspective from the ground. On the other hand, San Agustin Church and convent has many years of history and it has since been converted into a museum. You can easily spend the whole afternoon exploring the Intramuros, from quirky art galleries to souvenir shops to old cathedrals filled with history, as well as Fort Santiago and Casa Manila.

San Agustin church and convent

the interior of Manila cathedral

outside of Manila cathedral

Located just outside of Intramuros to the west, the Pasig river passes through Manila. Its waters are covered with a layer of oil slick and I noticed a group of children swimming in the river, without a care for its unhygienic conditions while their mothers look on. These families live in slums shabbily set up along the river, away from the usual tourist track. I pity their poor living conditions, but feel helpless to lend them a helping hand.

Pasig river

Overall, I have experienced the traffic, shopping paradise as well as the historical side of Manila. Two days is definitely enough for me as I can’t wait to get home. If you have more time, you can even do a day trip to Taal volcano which is situated about 2 hours away from the city. You can go there on your own by jeepney or sign up with one of the tour companies for an added peace of mind.