Traveling to a busy city like Manila calls for a good night’s rest at a comfortable and convenient location. Here at ZEN Rooms, we believe that a holiday doesn’t always have to be costly. Check out our range of budget hotels that will allow you to spend more on activities, food and entertainment!
Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Manila is a big city where a lot can happen. As a thriving mega-city, Manila is one of the most fast-paced cities in Asia, with shopping centers, high-rises and modern attractions in abundance. Don’t let this draw you away from its deep-rooted history, however, one which can be both exciting and educational to explore.
One of the best places to explore Manila’s history is in the Intramuros old town. What was once a Spanish fort has now become home to the San Agustín Church and a great collection of art. If you’re looking for more art and history then make sure to visit the university of Santo Tomas, the oldest university in the far east and the second to be founded in the Philippines. Apart from its incredible architecture, you’ll find a history museum with relics dating back to 1682. If you’re more interested in modern attractions, then visit Quiapo, Manila’s version of Trafalgar square. Here you’ll find the Plaza Miranda and a huge range of local handicrafts on sale. If you’re interested in seeing a more modern form of art, Quezon city is home to the Philippine’s entertainment industry. You can also drop in on the Skyscraper Gazing Tour if you want to take a closer look at the Philippine stock exchange. Don’t forget to check out the Manila Ocean Park for a look some oceanic wonders, or the Greenbelt (Ayala Center), one of the premier shopping centers based in Manila.
Ermita is one of the two main tourist neighbourhoods and offers a range of souvenir shops and artistry which come from cultures all over Asia. Malate is another of these tourist locations, offering less trinkets and more hotels, clubs and bars. Definitely one of the best areas to stay for most visitors. If you’re interested in getting more involved in Manila’s history and culture, then make a note of Intramuros, or visit Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown district, to see one of Manila’s original centers for business, finance and trade. There are also some nice, more cultural places to stay in Binondo. Tondo should also fit in on any cultural bill, and is one of the poorest neighbourhoods in the Philippines. whilst it’s advisable to be careful here, there is a lot of local and native culture on display. One the other end of the spectrum, you can check out Makati, a very high class area, where you can see how the Philippine stock exchange runs.