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Tour of
the Philippines-Manila |
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By Alison Kroulek
Sunday, December 23, 2007
The Philippines are divided into 3 island groups: the Luzon group, the Visayas, and the Mindanao group. Naturally, the Luzon group contains the island of Luzon, as well as the islands surrounding it. Since the Luzon group contains the capital city of Manila, one of the main entry points into the Philippines, it seems like a natural place to start a tour of the islands. After arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you can start your Philippine trip by sightseeing in Manila. Attractions include various churches and cathedrals, museums, nightlife, and shopping. One highlight is the Chinese cemetery, located on Rizal Ave Extension and Aurora Blvd. The families of the deceased have spared no expense to ensure the comfort of the dearly departed-including such modern conveniences as crystal chandeliers and indoor plumbing. Yes, these tombs actually have flush toilets! However, one measure of the amount of inequality in Filipino society is that many citizens, including children, lack even basic necessities like adequate food and shelter, but others have enough money to shower luxuries on their dead family members. Another attraction in Manila itself is the Intramuros, a restoration of the historic fortified city that housed Manila’s government offices when Spanish colonists ruled the island. Most of the original fortress was destroyed when Manila was bombed in World War II. The Intramuros also contains the historic baroque cathedral of San Agustin. Baroque cathedrals are amazing-soaring, ornate expressions of religious devotion. San Agustin was named as a Unesco World Heritage site along with 3 other Baroque cathedrals, because “their unique architectural style is a reinterpretation of European Baroque by Chinese and Philippine craftsmen” . For tourists interested in learning more about Philippine culture, a visit to the National Museum may be in order. The museum houses a permanent display called “The Journey of the Philippine People,” as well as exhibits on various indigenous cultures. The museum also has an art gallery, and an exhibit that showcases the shipwrecked remains of the San Diego, a 17th century Dutch ship. The Malacanang Palace is also an interesting place to visit. This handsome Spanish Colonial building was constructed in 1815, and is basically the Philippine equivalent of our White House. The Malacanang Palace has been the seat of the Philippine government and the permanent residence of the governor-general of Manila since 1863. Some feel the palace’s original architectural merit has been dimmed by 150 years worth of modifications but the imposing structure still warrants a visit. If jet lag is not too severe, Manila also has plenty of night life to sample. For example, fashion-conscious Filipinos flock to Nakpil Street to see and be seen. Nakpil Street offers food, drinks and entertainment. The perfect night to go and view this street-level fashion show would be Saturday, when the street is closed to traffic. Last but not least, J.R.R Tolkien fans should definitely make plans to visit the Hobbit House. This wonderfully quirky folk music club is owned and operated by a group of dwarfs . |
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