MANILA

Manila is the expansive capital of the Philippines. It is comprised of 16 separate cities with a population totaling nearly 13 million people. However, metro Manila, where the cruise ships dock, has a much more manageable 1.8 million people. 

While the city is incredibly large, the key points of interest are relatively close to the cruise port. The historic Intramuros district is a 1 mi/ 1.6 km walk away, and there you will be able to travel by foot between historic sites such as Fort Santiago and Casa Manila. Be sure to check out the religious architecture in the Manila Cathedral and San Augustine Church. Or perhaps cross the river to see Binondo, which is said to be the world’s oldest Chinatown. 

Taxi drivers at the port will tell you that the walk is too far, but your own two legs might end up being quicker than four wheels given the fact that traffic in Manila is horrendous. If traveling by taxi, allow ample travel time to ensure you make it back by all aboard. A seemingly short trip can take hours.

TIP: Be sure to have the local currency, the Peso, if traveling by taxi. Drivers will offer set rates in USD that will often be 10 times the price of a metered rate in local currency. 

While Manila has sites to see, consider spending some time onboard. Many cruise ships have a high percentage of Filipino crew, and seeing happy staff showing their kids and families off is heartwarming and an experience in of itself.