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| Christmas Party along Roxas Boulevard |
When our call center office in Legazpi City, Albay decided to transfer back to Manila after operating for over two years IN 2007, I had no choice but move to the metro as well. I used to be a full-blooded “probinsyana” that who only knew two places to go during my rest days: the malls and the nearby church.
As the years go by with the help of friends, I have learned to explore the metro and able to memorize the different prominent landmarks and used the public transportation especially the MRT which is very near from where I stay. More than being familiar of the city which I now call my second home, I have learned to appreciate Manila’s rich history.
Now living in Manila for over six years, I would like to share the best places to visit in the metro. Just a reminder my list is a bit biased because I am a culture and heritage buff so expect more of this as you read below:
1. Binondo for an Authentic Chinese Food Dishes
Do you know that our very own Binondo is said to be the oldest Chinatown outside China in the world? It was established in 15th century so the recipe of the food you are going to eat there is as old as that! Go to Dong Bei for dumplings, Ling Nam for lumpias, Sincerity for cha misua, Antigua Toho for fried kikiam, Ambos Mundos for pork asado, Maki place for raddish cake and La Resureccion for powdered cacao. For pasalubong you can go to Eng Bee Tin for tikoy and Holand for hopia.
2. Greenbelt, Makati
There are a lot of malls around the metro and often crowded. Greenbelt in Makati stands out from the rest because of its landscape design. You can also drop by to the nearby chapel, the Ayala museum, a playground to stroll, a movie theater, coffee shops etc. This place is not only a shopping mecca but a place where anyone can find a spot whatever his/her preference.
3. Intramuros, National Museum and Rizal Park
It is a shame for someone living in Manila who has never been to Intramuros, National Museum and Rizal Park. I think every locals of Manila should come and visit this place to learn about the city’s past.
4. Watch Manila’s skyscrapers
Stroll along Ayala Ave and see two of the tallest buildings in the country. Check your Google map and find the PBCom Tower and GT International. Also visit friends who live in any condos located in the metro particularly in The Fort and Ortigas. If they stay in the much upper floors you’ll be lucky to get a greater glimpse of Manila’s skyscrapers
5. Bar-hopping tour in Manila
Who does not want a bit of nightlife in the city? Visiting one bar for a night is a thing of the past. You can join Manila Pubcrawl, a bar-hopping tour. For the whole night you get to ride an airconditioned bus, you are not allowed to sit with someone you know and visit 7 or more bars for the night in Makati, The Fort, Malate etc! Don’t worry you will be given your own shot glass.
There you go, I actually have a dozen in my list but the ones I listed above are a good start to not to stay in your couch during your off.
Note: This is an entry to Sykes E-Recruitment Blog Giveaway.
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