If you’re stuck in Manila for some reason, don’t fret.
Below we have compiled a list of 10 great beach alternatives.
1. Ice Skating Rink at the Mall of Asia.
The Mall of Asia, or “Moa” as it is called by the locals, houses an olympic-sized ice skating rink. In a tropical country where only a few could afford to go abroad to experience sub-zero temperatures, the ice skating rink is a popular hangout especially in the humid and hot months from March to May.
2. Ace Water Spa.
Located at Quezon City, the facility houses pools specialized for “water therapy” Each pool at ace water spa was built uniquely, some with pressurized water pouring into platforms wherein visitors could lie down for a “water massage.” The management of the facility is strict about hygiene, such that each visitor is checked for skin ailments. Proper attire is also strictly observed, form-fitting swim attire is required, board shorts are not allowed.
3. QC Circle.
The “Circle”, actually an elliptical patch, is a park situated at the center of a huge roundabout right at the heart of Quezon City. A marble monument was built at the southern part of the park to house the remains of Manuel L. Quezon, the president of the philippines before the 2nd world war from which the city was named after.
A museum was likewise setup at the foot of the monument to honor the former president. Several other attractions were built by the city government on the park grounds. These include a small theme park, musical fountains, greenhouse and a kids’ jungle gym.
4. Intramuros.
Called as “Asia’s medieval city,” the Spanish walled city houses several churches and structures built during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines from the 16th to 19th centuries. Several tours in Intramuros are organized by different groups, most notable of which are headed by Carlos Celdran and the Intramuros segway tour, which lasts from 30 minutes to an hour.
5. Manila Restaurants.
Food tours in manila are popular among tourists and locals alike. The most frequented tours are the Binondo Food Walk, organized by Ivan Dy, while another tours the pre-war houses of Manila’s elite, where they are served period recipes.
Check out our list of Top 10 Restaurants in Manila for some tasty dinner options.
6. La Mesa Eco Park.
A popular family destination, the La Mesa Eco Park is located at the fringe of the metropolis. The park is actually the last remaining forest cover in the city, circling around the La Mesa Water Reservoir. Visitors to the park can be treated to a host of activities such as biking, trekking and zip line.
7. Manila Ocean Park.
The largest indoor aquarium in Southeast Asia, the Manila Ocean Park is meant to showcase the marine diversity of the Philippines. Main attractions of the aquarium include the glass tunnel, jelly fish tanks, fish spa, and water and lights show.
8. The Mind Museum.
Opened this March (2012), the Mind Museum is the first world-class Science Museum in the Philippines. Currently the museum houses more than 250 interactive exhibits in eight pavilions designed to pique the interest of old and young visitors. The museum is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 9AM to 9PM.
9. University of the Philippines – Diliman.
The tree-lined roads of the University make it an ideal place to jog, bike or simply hang-out. For art and history buffs, there are several museums located inside the campus, such as the Vargas Museum and the UP Centennial Museum. The University is also known as a foodie’s destination, offering classic Filipino street food such as fishballs, Isaw, Kwek Kwek, Taho and Sorbetes.
10. Luneta Park.
A classic destination, no trip to Manila is complete without taking a souvenir photo with the country’s adored hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Although the park has seen better days, the city government has recently spruced up the place with the 150th birth anniversary of the national hero.
Metro Manila may be chaotic, noisy and humid, especially in the summer months but take a look more closely and you’ll find places that will make the city seem much more bearable, interesting and fun!
Manilenio.com
VN:F [1.9.17_1161]
Rating: 9.5/10 (2 votes cast)
…