Have you ever been to Manila? It’s a vibrant city full of energy and life, with plenty of things to do. From historical sites to natural wonders, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want some rest and relaxation, I guarantee that you won’t be disappointed!
Manila Muslim travel
What to do in Manila as Muslim travellers?
Here are some things to do in Manila as Muslim travellers:
- Visit the Golden Mosque and Cultural Centre: Located in Quiapo, this mosque is the largest in the city and can accommodate up to 22,000 worshipers. It is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and is open to all visitors.
- Enjoy Halal Food: Manila has a good number of restaurants that serve halal food. Some of them are Arab Asian Cafe, Halal Kabab Express, and Al Dimashqi.
- Visit the Islamic Center of the Philippines: This educational and cultural center provides information about the history and culture of Islam in the Philippines.
- Explore Intramuros: This historic walled city is home to several historic sites, including Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
- Shop at Greenhills Shopping Center: This shopping center offers a wide range of goods, from clothes and accessories to electronics and home decor. It also has a prayer room for Muslim shoppers.
- Visit the National Museum of the Philippines: The museum houses a vast collection of artworks, artifacts, and historical objects from the Philippines and around the world.
- Enjoy the Rizal Park: This park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It also has a monument dedicated to Jose Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines.
- Visit the Manila Ocean Park: This oceanarium is home to a wide variety of marine life and offers several interactive exhibits.
- Explore the Manila Baywalk: This promenade offers stunning views of the sunset over Manila Bay. It’s also lined with restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine.
- Visit Quiapo Market: This bustling market is a great place to shop for local products and souvenirs.
Remember, as a Muslim traveller, it’s important to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
Mosques
Exploring the mosques of Manila is a great way to experience its culture and history. I was astonished by the beautiful architecture when visiting the Golden Mosque in Quiapo, one of the city’s oldest Islamic places of worship. The intricate gold-plated facade glimmered in the sun – it was truly breathtaking! It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for an inspiring cultural experience.
A little further away from downtown, there’s also Masjid Al-Dahab, an impressive modern mosque that stands proudly against the skyline. Its marbled grand entrance leads into an airy atrium with tall ceilings and bright white walls adorned with colorful stained glass windows. Inside, visitors can admire the intricately painted domes and listen to traditional Muslim sermons delivered on Fridays.
Not far away is Masjid Darul Ehsan – another stunningly designed place of worship set amidst lush gardens where people come together to enjoy picnics or go birdwatching.
There are plenty of activities here like prayer services, educational classes and community events that make this spot even more special. So whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or just taking a break from your busy day, consider visiting these magnificent mosques in Manila – they’ll surely leave you feeling refreshed and inspired!
Historical Sites
Transitioning from the places of worship, let’s now explore some amazing historical sites in Manila. There are plenty of them around and they’re worth visiting!
For starters, there’s Intramuros – a stunning walled city located right at the heart of Metro Manila. This once-fortified citadel was built by Spanish colonizers centuries ago to protect their settlements from foreign threats. Today, it stands as one of the country’s most iconic landmarks and is home to many cultural attractions like San Agustin Church, Baluarte de Santa Barbara, Plaza Roma, Fort Santiago and more. It’s definitely worth exploring if you want to learn about Philippine history.
Another place that should be on your list is Rizal Park or Luneta Park – an urban park dedicated to Philippine national hero Jose Rizal. Apart from its beautiful gardens and picturesque views, this historic site also houses monuments such as Dr Jose P. Rizal Monument and Chinese Garden Pavilion which commemorate several important figures throughout Philippines’ history.
So whether you’re looking for educational activities or just simply wanting to take a stroll through time immemorial – these two historical spots in Manila are sure to give you an unforgettable experience!
Shopping Destinations
Manila offers a plethora of shopping destinations for any budget. Whether you’re looking for the latest trends or unique local finds, there’s something to suit every taste and style. Here are my top picks:
- Upscale Shopping
- SM Aura Premier – Located in Bonifacio Global City, this high-end mall is home to plenty of designer shops and trendy cafes. From luxury watch boutiques to beauty salons, it’s the perfect place to find great deals on exclusive items.
- Glorietta Mall – This premium mall located in Makati features several international labels such as Zara, H&M and Topshop along with numerous restaurants. It also has an array of upscale stores like Louis Vuitton and Hermes if you’re looking for some serious splurging!
- Budget Friendly Options
- Divisoria Market – For bargain hunters who don’t mind navigating through crowded alleys and haggling over prices, Divisoria is a great option. You can find everything from clothes to electronics at very low prices here!
- Greenhills Shopping Center – Also known as “Shoppesville” by locals, this open air market boasts hundreds of stalls selling all kinds of goods ranging from apparel to souvenirs. With its wide selection of wares at discounted rates, it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re on a tight budget.
No matter your shopping preference, Manila has something for everyone! Its vibrant streets offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery; go forth and experience the wonders that await you!
Outdoor Activities
The hustle and bustle of the city can be a bit overwhelming for some, so if you’re looking to get away from it all we’ve got plenty of outdoor activities in Manila that will help you relax. From nature reserves to beaches and even mountains, there’s something here for everyone who loves being close to nature. Here’s a look at some of our top picks:
| Activity | Location |
|---|---|
| Hiking | Rizal Park |
| Kayaking | Laguna de Bay |
| Camping | Tagaytay Ridge |
One great way to enjoy the outdoors is by taking a hike around Rizal park. The lush green spaces are perfect for an afternoon stroll or jog along with spectacular views of Intramuros and Fort Santiago – definitely worth checking out! For those more adventurous types, kayaking in Laguna de Bay provides an incredible experience as you paddle through its vast expanse while enjoying stunning views of Metro Manila skyline. And lastly, why not take a camping trip up to Tagaytay ridge? It’s one of the most popular spots among locals due to its breathtaking overlooking view of Taal lake and volcano – just don’t forget your tent!
You’ll find yourself feeling refreshed after spending time outside in this beautiful city. You get rewarded for stepping away from your everyday routine with new experiences that let you soak up the sun and fresh air. Get ready to explore what else Manila has in store for those seeking adventure!
Cultural Attractions
If you’re looking for a cultural experience in Manila, there’s plenty to do! Start by visiting the National Museum of the Philippines. Here, you’ll be able to explore a vast array of artifacts that tell the story of Filipino history and culture. From ancient sculptures to traditional clothing, this museum is an absolute must-see for any visitor.
Another great way to learn about local culture is to visit one of Manila’s many art galleries or museums. These places showcase some incredible works from Filipino artists, both modern and classical. Plus, it’s always fascinating to see how different cultures interpret similar subjects like love or beauty!
Finally, don’t miss out on experiencing the vibrant nightlife scene in Manila. You can find live music performances at bars and clubs all over town—from jazz quartets playing in cozy pubs to cover bands rocking crowded dance floors. No matter what your taste in music is, you’re sure to have a good time exploring Manila after dark!
Halal Dining Options
If you’re looking for some delicious halal options in Manila, you won’t be disappointed. The city is full of restaurants and cafes that cater to Muslim dietary requirements, so there’s sure to be something to suit everyone’s tastes. From traditional Filipino cuisine to international food choices, here are some of the best halal dining options in Manila.
One of the most popular places for halal meals is Salaam Café. Located inside a mosque near Intramuros, this café serves up delicious Middle Eastern dishes like shawarma and kebabs as well as other favorites like beef rendang and stir-fried noodles. There’s also an extensive drinks menu featuring both hot and cold beverages including bubble tea, juices, and milkshakes.
For those who prefer their meals with a side of shopping, Al-Fresco at Robinsons Place Ermita has it all – from Pakistani curries to grilled meats served alongside stalls selling everything from clothes to jewelry. This bustling street market also features live music performances on select nights making it a great spot for dinner and entertainment!
Whether you choose one of these recommended spots or find your own favorite place, eating halal food in Manila is easy enough if you know where to look. With something for everyone from quick takeouts to sit-down dinners with friends – there’s no reason not to indulge in some tasty treats while visiting the city!
Water Parks And Resorts
If you’re looking for a fun-filled getaway in Manila that the whole family can enjoy, why not take a trip to one of the city’s exciting water parks and resorts? There are several great places where you can have a blast cooling off from the heat.
The first option is Splash Island, located close to Metro Manila. This park has plenty of attractions like waterslides, lazy rivers, and wave pools – perfect for people who love thrill rides! The resort also offers activities such as ziplining and rock climbing if you’re feeling adventurous. And don’t forget about their nightly fireworks show — it’s truly something special.
Another great place to check out is Aqua Planet Water Park in Clark Freeport Zone. With its huge selection of slides, splash pads, and swimming pools, this is sure to be an unforgettable experience for everyone. They even feature several interactive games and movie nights that make your visit extra memorable. Plus, they have amazing restaurants so you won’t go hungry during your stay!
These two spots offer some excellent options for a day or weekend filled with aquatic thrills and relaxation. Whether you just want to soak up some sun or race down slippery slopes into cool waters below — there’s no end to what these renowned destinations can provide! So start planning your next adventure today — let loose and explore the many wonders Manila has to offer!
Nature Trails And Parks
Moving from the thrill and excitement of Manila’s water parks, let’s journey to its lush green spaces. To truly appreciate nature in all her glory, head over to some of the city’s amazing trails and parks.
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, try trekking or camping at La Mesa Eco Park. Located on an old reservoir site near Novaliches, this park has several hiking routes that lead up to breathtaking views of Metro Manila as well as fishing spots with carp, tilapia and mudfish. Plus, it also houses art installations by local street artists! Here are some other great places to explore:
- Rizal Park – This is one of the oldest public parks in the Philippines and home to many historical landmarks such as The Luneta Hotel, Jose Rizal monument, Orchidarium & Butterfly Pavilion and Quirino Grandstand.
- Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center – Spanning across 55 hectares, this wildlife center offers educational tours about various plants and animals found in the area where visitors can take part in interactive activities like birdwatching.
- Quezon Memorial Circle – This recreational park plays host to numerous events throughout the year including concerts and carnivals while providing plenty of space for jogging or walking around its circular track.
- UP Diliman Campus – Home to a few hundred species of trees native to different parts of Southeast Asia, visiting University of the Philippines-Diliman campus allows us to escape into natural beauty without leaving metropolitan Manila. Not only does it make for a perfect picnic spot but you can also find interesting architectural features scattered around like sculptures made out of recycled materials.
- La Mesa Ecopark – A sprawling 32 hectare paradise located beside La Mesa Dam which provides refuge for over 270 bird species along with mammals such as monkeys and civets; making it a must visit place for animal lovers!
No matter what your interests may be – history buffs, nature enthusiasts or just a casual walker—there’s something here for everyone in these trails and parks. Whether you want meditation time away from bustling streets or simply enjoy spending quality time outdoors with loved ones; come discover all that Manila has to offer!
Art Galleries And Museums
Manila is an incredible city that’s full of art galleries and museums. From historical to contemporary, there are plenty of places in the city where you can enjoy some amazing artwork. The National Museum of the Philippines offers a great selection of traditional and modern pieces from all over the country, while the Metropolitan Museum Manila showcases works from various Filipino artists and international masters. If you’re looking for something more interactive, then head to the Ayala Museum which features a range of interactive exhibits as well as educational programs. For those who want to explore cutting-edge contemporary art, then check out Silverlens Gallery or Finale Art File – both have regular exhibitions featuring up-and-coming local talent, plus they often host talks with leading creative figures from around the world. And if you really want to get your creative juices flowing, why not visit one of the many open studios scattered throughout Manila? Here you’ll find workshops run by talented local artists who will help you express yourself through painting, pottery making or sculpture – it’s sure to be a memorable experience!
Conclusion
It’s no secret that Manila is bursting with things to do, and it can be hard to narrow down your choices. From historical sites to outdoor activities, there are countless ways to explore the city and its many attractions. But whatever you decide to do on a trip here, one thing’s for sure: you won’t regret it!
From exploring ancient mosques and archaeological sites to shopping at bustling bazaars or unwinding in luxurious water parks and resorts, Manila has something for everyone. You’ll also find plenty of cultural attractions, halal dining options, art galleries, museums and nature trails – all of which make for an unforgettable experience.
So if you’re looking for a unique holiday destination full of culture and adventure, then look no further than Manila – the perfect place to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Has anyone actually traveled to Manila, Cebu or Davao? What’s your narrative.