I’m going to Manila this November to attend some functions, have a few meetings, and for a little bit of vacation. I want this trip to be a bit different. Instead of coffee shops, malls, and the usual places I go to, I want to go to unique places.

Binondo

The first time I went to Binondo was sometime 2005 or 2006 with my cousin. We had joined a walking tour. I was fascinated by the temples, old houses, and old buildings. I also enjoyed the food and the other sights that I saw.

Kuya Andrew, several friends and I went to Binondo for another walking tour in 2008. Aside from the yummy food we ate, I found walking through Binondo to be an interesting experience. I’m not really Chinese but I found the culture, the sights, and sounds to be very homey. And I do want to go back for another walking tour.

Philippine National Museum

People suggested that I visit museums. Silly me. I have never been to the Philippine National Museum. Not even when our History professor asked us to go there. But I do want to go. It’s embarrassing to be almost 30 and never having set foot on the Philippine National Museum. Anybody want to go with me? 🙂

Or maybe you want to suggest other museums I should visit?

Mercato Centrale

I am a foodie. And I found Mercato Centrale to be a haven for foodies. I want to go back for the bagnet, the cupcakes, the quiches and pies, the homemade ice cream, the sugar-free cereal bars for Daddy, and other delicious food treats for me and for pasalubong.

Ride the MRT

I used to ride the MRT all the time and I enjoyed it. However, my last few trips to Manila I was not able to do so due to time-constraints and health reasons. This time, I want to ride the MRT as often as I can. I’m bad with directions though so I think I’m gonna get lost a few times.

I want to do more this trip. And I need your suggestions. I’m thinking maybe the zoo? What else do you think I should do in Metro Manila? I want a bit of an adventure in the urban jungle.

AirPhil Express flies to Manila from Davao and vice versa daily.

Binondo 2008 photo courtesy of Batang Yagit.