This is Manila:
I am trying to research on the different places in the Philippines that may be possible for me and my husband. I prefer to check city living first. I want to see if we are better off living in the city for our retirement in the Philippines. That’s why I will start with the most popular city of Manila.
Where is Manila in the Philippines?
Photo from: http://www.keywordsuggests.com/LHVIkMqEPyiZgaA9TyQ5lifKPRZu9qQGPaasfYoCfuE/
Manila is the capital of the Philippines. It is on Luzon Island’s western side along the shores of Manila Bay.
It is a vibrant metropolis, one of the liveliest cities on the planet. The influences of the Spanish, the Chinese and North Americans have contributed greatly to the city, together with its unique identity and atmosphere. There are interesting architectural structures all across Manila, serving as evidence of its multicultural past.
It is a cosmopolitan city, a hodgepodge of old and new buildings, the country’s economic, cultural, educational and industrial center. It is a city of great diversity where luxury and tourist attractions are mixed with signs of poverty. All these diversities make Manila such a fascinating tourist destination, and a city where things are rarely quiet and attractions are plentiful!
Manila Daytime
Manila Nighttime
Photo from: wikitravel.org
History
Manila was known for trading since the 13th century. Later it became the center of Spanish activity in the Far East linking Latin America and Asia. This caused Manila to be called the “Pearl of the Orient”.
The city was severely devastated in World War II. Manila was the site of the bloodiest battle in the Pacific theater during the war. It was the second most devastated city in the world after Warsaw during the Second World War. Before this, Manila was one of the most beautiful cities in the world, having been compared with London, Paris and other European cities. Manila was the capital of the Spanish East Indies for 3 centuries and Intramuros, the ruins of the original city founded by the Spaniards in 1571, still stand today despite bombings during WWII.
Climate
The Philippines has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet and dry. Rains usually occur from late May till early November. From March to May, temperatures heat up but as Manila is by the coast, it rarely goes beyond 99°F. Dry season starts from late November until late April. December to February is a pleasant time to visit the Philippines. Temperatures during this time range from 75-86°F at its peak.
Other Important Things to Know About Manila
What was referred to as Manila (the city), is now considered as the metropolitan region encompassing the City of Manila and its surrounding areas in the Philippines. It is composed of 16 cities namely City of Manila, Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Pasay, Pasig, Parañaque, Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela and the Municipality of Pateros. It is now collectively called METROPOLITAN MANILA or METRO MANILA in short.
English and Filipino (Philippine National language) are the common languages in the northern mainland of Luzon, including Manila. English is widely used in educational and business institutions. Street signs, posters, marks, etc. are usually in English.
Buses and taxicabs are the cheapest way of transportation. Private vehicles can also be rented on a daily or weekly basis at very reasonable rates.
Payphones are very common in the city center. The use of mobile phones is also very extensive. Lines of communications are always open.
Internet cafes have become a common sight in Metro Manila. Most malls would have at least one internet cafe. Most internet cafes provide broadband speeds. You can use these cafes to communicate with your friends and relatives back home. Internet use is charged on a per hour basis.
Map of Metro Manila
Photo from: islandsweb.net
Metro Manila is much bigger, which means we have more choices for city living! Stay tuned… it’s getting more exciting!
Posted in Philippines - the Best Place to Retire
