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About Manila
The Philippine capital is Asia's best-kept secret. The capital of the Orient's only Catholic country seems somehow out of place, vibrant with Latin American or Caribbean undertones. Music and dancing are everywhere, and the smiles and laughter rival Bangkok's in their warmth and enthusiasm. Manila's intense historical influences -Spanish religion and American consumerism - have led to the saying that the capital has spent "400 years in a convent and 50 in Hollywood". The result is a city of extremes ready to delight the unsuspecting traveler.
Metro Manila is an urban sprawl that has swallowed up 11 cities and five towns in the past two centuries. It's a place of opposites: old and new; wealth and poverty; and grandiosity and squalor. Smog, traffic jams and a general air of decay make a less than favourable first impression but just beneath the surface lies a fascinating and pulsating place to enjoy. Filipinos call it "The City of Our Affections" where the people's love affairs with fashion, music, entertainment and sheer fun are on bright and beautiful display.
By day, the original, medieval walled city of Intramuros delights with its history and elegant Latin architecture.
By night, and it can be a very long night, the bright lights of Ermita and Makati beckon with jazz pubs, clubs, karaoke lounges, 24-hour diners and trendy bars. The Filipino people's zest for life, natural friendliness and ease with the English language make them the perfect hosts, always ready to invite you to their daily party. This is a fun city where your shoulders loosen in relaxation and only the muscles you use to smile are seriously stressed.
Few would claim Philippine food was among Asia's best. But Filipinos love food, especially a long lunch, eaten with their hands off a banana leaf. (A popular venue for traditional Philippine cuisine is Kamayan at 47 Pasay Road, Makati. Tel. +63 (0)2 815 1463.) Manila is one of the most affordable places to enjoy Thai, Chinese, Japanese, French and Italian food to international standard. Excellent service and beautiful settings make Manila a happy place to wine and dine.
Filipinos take fun seriously and Manila's bars are among Asia's liveliest. Happy hour is everyone's favourite time of day - and lasts long into the night at certain hangouts. Great service, ice cold drinks and music nearly everywhere…cheers! Manila is Asia's party central. Venues stay open to 05.00 at weekends and 03.00 midweek. The action centres are on JM Nakpil Street, Makati Avenue or Pasay Road in Makati, and throughout the Malate.
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