|
|
***
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Link Sponsorizzati |
| Asia |
| Letteratura Inglese | Chinese Literature |
Letteratura Giapponese |
Buddhismo |
| Islam | xx | xx | xx |
| Filippine |
| Mindoro Island | Negros Island | Samar Island | Tagum |
| Zambales | Iba | Manila | Masbate |
| Mindanao | Corregidor | Davao | Dumaguete |
| Gebneral Santos | Bohol | Baracay | Calbayog |
| Cebu |
|
| Thanks to
http://www.world66.com/ *********************The content is published under a creative commons licence : http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0 / ). |
| Manila Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Manila Harbor Manila Harbor Metropolitan Manila on the whole has officially 6 million inhabitants (unofficially 9 million) and it is one of the most exhausting cities in Southeast Asia. Don't expect to get any rest, for that kind of thing you need to take a plane or shuttle boat from manila Bay to one of the smaller islands. |
|
| Manila is the capital of the Philippines and was founded on June 24th, 1571
on the harbor now known as Manila Bay on the east coast of Luzon, the
Philippines largest and most northerly island. It is the second largest city
in the country with a population of 1,581,000 trailing second behind Quezon
City with 2,173,000. Manila started out as a humble village and has grown to
become the governmental, commercial and educational center of the nation. The heart of old Manila can be found inside Intramuros - meaning "within the walls," a well cared for 15th century original Spanish settlement. The fort and St. Augustine Church still are good examples of colonial architecture. Old ruins damaged by WWII still stand across the landscape while modern edifices dart the distant skyline. An outstanding example of colonial architecture is the Manila Cathedral, the third to be built on site and whose tower and dome can be seen miles away. Eateries specializing in savory local cuisine as well as international tastes are conveniently located within the walls. While a golf course encircles the entire ancient settlement. The Sunset at Manila Bay is also one of the most spectacular in the world. It can be enjoyed along Roxas Boulevard where one can take a leisurely stroll and arrive at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Here Fine Art, Western and Eastern music and dance meet in the likes of the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Ballet Philippines, and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. There are convenient trains called the LRT, LRT2 and MRT railways for people to get around the entirety of Metro Manila, or try your luck like a local and enjoy the adventure, history and thrill of a Jeepney - the quintessential Filipino transportation. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: spelling correction __________Sights Edit This i Display all or display just: Churches and Cathedrals Hotspots Memorial Sites Museums Palaces Parks & Gardens Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Sight] American Military Cemetery and Memorial Edit This i photo by: Elisabet Malansing Weides Located in the suburb of Makati, it has excellent World War II exhibits. type: Memorial Sites World66 rating: [rate it] Intramuros Edit This i Intramuros is the oldest part of Manila. The original Malay settlement was destroyed in 1574, and the Spaniards rebuilt it as a wooden fort, which was replaced by a stone complex in 1590. It slowly grew into the fortified city that is now known as Intramuros. The walls around the city were 3km (1.9 miles) long, 13m (43ft) thick and 6m (20ft) high. Seven main drawbridges across the surrounding moat provided access into the city. The moat was later filled in and today it is a golf course. Among the buildings in the walled city were 15 churches, six monasteries, a university, more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Coconut Palace Edit This The Coconut Palace in the Cultural Centre in Malate is actually a guesthouse that was built for the Pope's visit in 1981 (in which he refused to stay) by order of Imelda Marcos, and cost USD10 million to complete. Coconut Palace was built entirely of palm wood and coconut shells and therefore got its name from the materials used in the construction - more than 70% of the materials come from the coconut tree. Take a guided tour and see the 24-carat gold fixtures in the bathrooms. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] Ayala Museum Edit This Ayala has a very beautiufl botanical garden, a quiet place in the big city. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] Malacanang Palace Edit This The former residence of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos can now be visited. It is located on José P. Laurel Street is a graceful mansion, about 200 years old. Many Spanish and American governor-generals and later presidents used it as a residence. Because of its previous use, the palace is sometimes referred to as the Philippines White House. The mansion is still exactly as was when the Marcos family fled to Hawaii in 1986. type: Palaces World66 rating: [rate it] Manila Cathedral Edit This i photo by: Elisabet Malansing Weides Manila Cathedral is a magnificent architectural feat with its intricate stone carvings, stained glass mosaics, and rosette windows. type: Churches and Cathedrals World66 rating: [rate it] Fort Santiago Edit This i Fort Santiago is a ruined old Spanish fort, now used as a park. A collection of rusting cars which belonged to previous Presidents dot the park. The climb to the top of Fort Santiago is worth the view of the Pasig River. During World War II, the Japanese used the fort as a prison. The dungeons are below the high-tide level and sometimes prisoners drowned here. Right at the end of the war the Japanese started on a wholesale massacre of prisoners, and in one small cell the bodies of 600 people were later found. The Rizal Shrine Museum is probably the most interesting part of more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] Arts and Science Museum Edit This In the Santo Tomas university. One of the best in its kind in Asia. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] Rizal Park Edit This Get away from it all and take a stroll in Rizal park. The park is a meeting place for the whole city, with Sundays being particularly popular days for a stroll and an ice cream. The Rizal Memorial is situated at the end of the park, and the place where Rizal was executed late in the 19th century is not too far away. This site is marked by a series of statues, depicting Rizal before the execution squad. The hero's remains lie within the cornerstone of the memorial, where a lightshow centering on the story is shown every evening. The park end at Taft Avenue has a huge pond with a more.. type: Parks & Gardens World66 rating: [rate it] Museo Ng Makati Edit This This museum is located in Makati, the business area of Manila. The museum displays art works, paintings, sculptures. Phone: 8960722/896-2464 type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] address: J. P. Rizal cor. A. Mabini Chinese Cemetery Edit This A very impressive cemetary. Some gravesites are full-sized houses. type: Memorial Sites World66 rating: [rate it] Cultural Center Museum Edit This This museum is located in the bayside Cultural Center in Malate. type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] openinghours: 9 am - 6 pm, daily except mondays National Museum Edit This Has good contemporary art displays type: Museums World66 rating: [rate it] _________History Edit This COlleges/Universities [Add New] The City by the bay Edit This Manila! wow! World66 rating: [rate it] _______Practical Information Edit This Gymnasium [Add Practical address] ian roy Edit This research type: Tourist information World66 rating: [rate it] accessibility: ellow tel: 09213437666 url: drseew address: siniloan lagun email: acomular_ian ________Getting There Edit This [Add Global transport mode] By Air Edit This The metro-Manila area (which includes the cities of Manila-proper, Quezon City, Makati, Pasay, Pasig) contains the premier business, government and entertainment centers of the Philippines. Metro-Manila is in the island of Luzon; the easiest option for travel to Manila is by air. Metro-Manila is served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) which is 15 km/9-miles or less away from the business and/or government centers. The airport - MNL - has daily non-stop flights to and from Bangkok, Hongkong, Shanghai, Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, more.. type: By Road World66 rating: [rate it] ________Day Trips Edit This Enchanted Kingdom entrance Enchanted Kingdom entrance Nat Pagayonan [Add Day Trip] Enchanted Kingdom Edit This Enchanted Kingdom entrance Enchanted Kingdom entrance photo by: Nat Pagayonan The Enchanted Kingdom was the first true theme park to be developed in the Philippines. It is located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, about 26 kilometers (16.1 miles) from Manila. It has a land area of 17 hectares (41 acres). The park is managed and operated by Enchanted Kingdom Inc., formerly named Amtrust Leisure Corporation. Enchanted Kingdom is a member of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Park Zones are as follows: Spaceport, Portabello, Brooklyn Place, Victoria Park, Boulderville, Midway Boardwalk & Jungle more.. World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.enchantedkingdom.com.ph address: Enchanted Kingdom, San Lorenzo South Village, City of Santa Rosa, Laguna email: enchant@itextron.com Pagsanjan Falls Edit This photo A quick getaway from Manila, Pagsanjan Falls is a jewel off the beaten path. An early start is recommended if you want to enjoy the place at its best and quietest. Most people come to Pagsanjan for the waterfall and river. It may begin to stir your imagination if you hear that the river was used in the movie Apocalypse Now. A canoe (banca) ride paddled and pushed by 2 skillfull banqueros takes you from a slow meandering part of the river through a narrow, steep-sided canyon and over several rapids. They expertly jump from rock to rock pushing the boat up more.. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Tagaytay Edit This Tagaytay Highlands Tagaytay Highlands An hour or so ride away from Manila is Tagaytay, a picturesque city that surrounds (or almost surrounds) a lake that has a volcano that has a lake inside it. There are several ways to take advantage of this gift of nature. You can either have lunch or dinner (with a panoramic view of the volcano and lake) at one of the restaurants on the ridge and enjoy the view from there, or you can travel down the ridge to the lakeside, take a small boat to the volcano in the center. From there, you have two options, either hike up on foot (not recommended during the more.. World66 rating: [rate it] Lake Taal Edit This Beautiful lake in an extinct volcanic crater. Nice views over the lake from Tagaytay Ridge. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] ________Nightlife and Entertainment Edit This [Add Entertainment place] Caramba Edit This The Caramba bar is located in the Fort Bonifacio development outside the Makati business district. It's a Latin style club that features live music and a small dance floor. This area of the city is quite popular for the city's yuppies. type: Bars World66 rating: [rate it] El Cirkulo Edit This This place is located in the Milkyway Building at 900 Pasay Road, Corner Paseo de Roxas not far away from the New World Hotel. It is a rather fancy place. type: Bars World66 rating: [rate it] ________Bars and Cafes Edit This i Elisabet Malansing Weides Although many of the bars, cafes and restaurants are well-known chains, Greenbelt near Makati is a classy area to relax with a beer or coffee. A first rate shopping center and excellent cinema are other reasons for attending. Sit, stand or dance inside one of the many bars or preferably sit outside overlooking the pristine tropical orchid gardens while modern office blocks watch over you. Whether this sounds like heaven or just plain mundane to you, the area outside Cafe Havana is a happening place to be. For a very different experience try the Baywalk area, Roxas Boulevard along Manila Bay south of the USA Embassy. Makeshift bars put out tables and chairs in the evening. There is often entertainment and the beer is cheap. Not the classiest of venues but a pleasant atmosphere with a cool sea breeze. Some decent clubs and bars can also be found just inland around Adriatico Street, but beware that the numerous foreigners push up the prices. There are numerous other areas for bars and cafes. If you have the time have fun exploring. :::::::::Paranuaque Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see :::::::Roxas City Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see :::::San Jose City Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Cyber-cafe EasyAccess located at the heart of San Jose City, Nueva Ecija. Visit http://www.cyber-cafe-easyaccess.com/ Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: http://www.cyber-cafe-easyaccess.com/ |
| Grazie a www.travelpuppy.com |
| Manila
Travel Guide Manila Travel Guide and Manila Travel Information - TravelPuppy.com The capital is situated on the west coast of Luzon, the major island of the Philippines and encircled by fertile land. Manila straddles the delta of the Pasig River, a navigable stream that links the freshwater lake of Laguna de Bay with the large natural harbour of Manila Bay and the South China Sea. Manila is hot and muggy all year round, even though the climate is tempered by the sea breezes. Typhoons season is from May through November. Manila, a accumulation of 17 towns and villages, were brought together in 1976 by President Marcos. Metro Manila is the true urban centre and located around the colonial capital of Intramuros and the other regions of Binondo, Ermita, Malate, Paco, Quipao and San Nicolas. The 38.3 sq kilometres or 15 square miles of urban development stretches out to the remote areas including Quezon City, Pasay City, Pasig City. Makati City, the main business area, hosts the majority of nightlife activities. Manila Bay was a magnet for maritime traders in the past due to its strategic situation between the Old World’s silk and spices on the one side and the New World’s silver on the other. The 1st foreign group of people to trade on the islands in 98AD were the Chinese. By the late 15th century, the Europeans sent Ferdinand Magellan westward to the Philippines in 1521. He claimed the islands for Spain, which took control of Manila (called Maynilad by early Muslim pioneers) in 1571. Following the collapse of the Spanish Empire in 1898, the Philippines won independence after 327 years under Spanish rule. They were then controlled by the Americans from 1900-1942 and the Japanese from 1942-1945. The Philippines regained democracy as a Republic after the end of the Japanese occupation in 1946. In 1965 Ferdinand Marcos was elected President. In 1972 anti-government riots gave him the excuse to declare martial law. He was ably assisted by his wife Imelda Marcos, who was the then governor of Metro Manila. Real democracy was achieved by the Filipinos after the "People Power Revolution" in 1986 that led to the downfall of the Marcos dictatorship. It is still one of the strongest democracies in Asia and the current president is Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Manila is a lesson in contrasts. The disparity between the rich and poor is evident with the palatial neighbourhoods around Makati contrasting with squatter camps along the river where the needy scavenge to survive. A large section of Manila still remains caught up in the Third World and democracy has brought little change. More than one hundred of cultural minority groups live in the country which also reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Manila’s is an overwhelming city and can seem very chaotic if you are not prepared for it. The noise, traffic, pollution, poverty and often-shabby infrastructure makes the capital seem intimidating. Manila’s strength, the friendliness and good humour of its people can become infectious. ____________ Manila Business Profile Manila Business Overview - TravelPuppy.com Manila Economy The economy is basically divided into agriculture which contributes 20% of the GDP, industry (32%) and services (48%). However, the major export of the country is without doubt the people. Maids, musicians and other guest workers swarm Asia’s service sector, including the far more highly qualified professionals noted for their adaptability and English language skills. The unemployment rate of 13.9% does not factor the large numbers of underemployed or those on bare subsistence incomes. About 32% of the population live below the poverty line. Manila has the highest unemployment rate caused job seekers flooding into the capital from the provinces. Manufacturing is mainly concentrated in or near metro Manila, with firms employing more than 50% of the country’s manufacturing workers. This is due to a number of factors such as Manila’s role as the principal port of entry for imported raw materials and other goods; the city’s superb harbour, the large local market; plenty of skilled labour; and the presence of the country's major governmental, financial and cultural institutions. The leading exports include textiles, clothing and electronic goods. Iron and steel, food and beverages, watches, cigars and cigarettes, leather goods and shoes are also made here. Entrepreneurs, often with foreign financial partners process primary commodities for export that include plywood, refined sugar, copra and coconut oil. Some of the top companies are Ayala Corp, Ayala Land, Meralco and SM Prime. The primary business, financial and embassy district is Makati City. The Philippine Stock Exchange has trading floors here and in Pasig City. Manila has moved into the ‘new economy’ with many software businesses using cheap, highly educated English speaking employees to handle outsourcing work for the world’s computerised operations. The mobile-phone company SMART, is another testament to the importance of technology in Manila. The Jollibee fast-food franchise has even launched an international brand. Business Etiquette American English is spoken in business circles. The recommended way to make business contacts is through connections rather than by cold calling. Handshakes and exchanging business cards is the usual greeting. Because of Manila’s heat, dress codes are more relaxed. A shirt and tie is always the norm for formal meetings. Hospitality for clients can typically include drinks and a round of golf. Gifts should be wrapped in red or green for good luck. Filipinos are not usually punctual and delays do occur. It is necessary to make appointments. The best months to visit on business are October to November and January to May. Business trips during Christmas and Easter holidays are not recommended. Office hours are usually Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 12 noon and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm. Some offices open on Saturdays between 8.00 am to 12 noon. ______________Manila Cultural Guide Manila Culture Guide - TravelPuppy.com The Filipino personality is a little bit of many cultures put together. The spirit of camaraderie and friendship that Filipinos are known for is thought to be taken from their Malay ancestors. The close family units are thought to have been inherited from the Chinese. The devoutness comes from the Spaniards who introduced Christianity in the 16th century. But what all can agree on is their hospitality, and this is what distinguishes the Filipino. The Cultural Centre of the Philippines, CCP Building, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (telephone: (02) 832 1125), is the centre for a number of the high arts. The project of the former first lady Imelda Marcos was built in real Pharaonic style and presumably covers the bodies of labourers buried in cement as its constructors rushed to meet her deadlines. It is also the central ticketing agency for most of the arts. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts, 633 General Luna Street, Intramuros (telephone: (02) 527 2192; fax: (02) 527 2191 is the main centre that promotes Philippines culture and arts. Music The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (telephone: (02) 832 1120) and resident company of the Cultural Centre of the Philippines, CCP Building, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (telephone: (02) 832 1125), is the main classical ensemble. The Philippine Chamber Choir has grown into a choral force of substantial fame. Popular open-air recitals are held, in Paco Park or at Rizal Park Amphitheater, in Rizal Park (telephone: (02) 535 3353). Theatre Dulaang Talyer is one of the leading modern and avant-garde companies. The Cultural Centre of the Philippines (see Music above) plays host to the highest level of the repertoire, with Tanghalang Pilipino as its resident company. The Folk Arts Theatre (telephone: (02) 832 1120) is set in the same complex and preserves and interprets traditional dramas. The William Shaw Theatre, located on the 5th floor of the Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong (telephone: (02) 633 4821), hosts comedies and more serious events. Intramuros has its own theatre company at the Rajah Sulayman Theatre, Fort Santiago (telephone: (02) 410 0821). Open-air productions and recitals take place at the Rizal Park Ampitheater (see Music above). Dance Dance is prominent in varieties of the Philippines’ cultural traditions. Ballet and performance arts are one of the main cultural exports. Ballet Philippines (telephone: (02) 832 3675) is the foremost national company for modern and classical repertoire and interpretations of native traditions. The Ballet Philippines, the Philippine Ballet Theatre and the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company are all based at the Cultural Centre of the Philippines (see Music). The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, also resident, is a main promoter of traditional dance. AC DanzMove is the dance troupe, located at Assumption College, Makati City (telephone: (02) 894 2678). Film There is a busy film industry in the Philippines which produces mostly sentimental and violent subject matter. José Estrada, the former president, was a career actor before moving into politics. Movie fans always remember Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now (1979) was filmed in the Philippines. Then President Marcos furnished the helicopters for the famous ‘Ride of the Valkyries’ air cavalry charge. The famed director Peter Weir filmed The Year of Living Dangerously (1982) and used Manila for Jakarta, instead of Saigon. The Shangri-La Cinema is situated at the Shangri-La Plaza, on the corner of Shaw Boulevard and EDSA, Mandaluyong City (telephone: (02) 633 7851). The SM Megamall, EDSA, Ortigas Centre, Mandaluyong (telephone: (02) 633 1901 or 632 9408), is a main multiplex cinema venue. Additional cinemas are located in Santa Cruz, around the junction of CM Recto Avenue and Rizal Avenue, or in Paco on Pedro Gil Street. Cultural Events The National Arts Month is a popular yearly arts festival held in February at many venues in Manila. At the same time is the annual Bamboo Organ Festival, at Las Piñas Village, near Manila. This event occurs in the 2nd week of February, bringing the world’s most important organists to this enchanting small town. In June, The Manila Film Festival coincides with the independence celebrations on 24th June and gives celebrants an opportunity to see their favourite stars. Literary Notes José Rizal, a novelist who wrote Noli Me Tangere or Touch Me Not (1887). He created contemporary Philippine literature which is a main work in the evolution of the modern national consciousness. His other famous novel, El Filibusterismo or Subversion (1891) is even more definite in its dissection of Spanish colonialism. British authors have contributed some of the best descriptions of Manila. James Hamilton-Paterson wrote Ghosts of Manila (1994), a story of the horrible events in the twilight of the Marcos era and thinly fictionalised from true events. James Fenton authored the last act of the Marcos soap opera in his memoir, The Snap Revolution (1986). It captures the occasion, but from an arguably patronising and leftist perspective. Corazon Aquino and the Brushfire Revolution (1995), by Robert Reid and Eileen Guerrero, follow the events differently but also with a jaded eye. William Boyd used Manila as a backdrop in 1902 in The Blue Afternoon (1997), Brownout on Breadfruit Boulevard (1995) by Timothy Mo makes an excellent play of Manila’s once daily electricity outages, weaving them with more than a whiff of scatology. A Short History of the Philippines (1969) by Teodoro Agoncillo, is believably the best work in this genre. ___________Manila Cultural Guide Manila Culture Guide - TravelPuppy.com The Filipino personality is a little bit of many cultures put together. The spirit of camaraderie and friendship that Filipinos are known for is thought to be taken from their Malay ancestors. The close family units are thought to have been inherited from the Chinese. The devoutness comes from the Spaniards who introduced Christianity in the 16th century. But what all can agree on is their hospitality, and this is what distinguishes the Filipino. The Cultural Centre of the Philippines, CCP Building, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (telephone: (02) 832 1125), is the centre for a number of the high arts. The project of the former first lady Imelda Marcos was built in real Pharaonic style and presumably covers the bodies of labourers buried in cement as its constructors rushed to meet her deadlines. It is also the central ticketing agency for most of the arts. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts, 633 General Luna Street, Intramuros (telephone: (02) 527 2192; fax: (02) 527 2191 is the main centre that promotes Philippines culture and arts. Music The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (telephone: (02) 832 1120) and resident company of the Cultural Centre of the Philippines, CCP Building, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (telephone: (02) 832 1125), is the main classical ensemble. The Philippine Chamber Choir has grown into a choral force of substantial fame. Popular open-air recitals are held, in Paco Park or at Rizal Park Amphitheater, in Rizal Park (telephone: (02) 535 3353). Theatre Dulaang Talyer is one of the leading modern and avant-garde companies. The Cultural Centre of the Philippines (see Music above) plays host to the highest level of the repertoire, with Tanghalang Pilipino as its resident company. The Folk Arts Theatre (telephone: (02) 832 1120) is set in the same complex and preserves and interprets traditional dramas. The William Shaw Theatre, located on the 5th floor of the Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong (telephone: (02) 633 4821), hosts comedies and more serious events. Intramuros has its own theatre company at the Rajah Sulayman Theatre, Fort Santiago (telephone: (02) 410 0821). Open-air productions and recitals take place at the Rizal Park Ampitheater (see Music above). Dance Dance is prominent in varieties of the Philippines’ cultural traditions. Ballet and performance arts are one of the main cultural exports. Ballet Philippines (telephone: (02) 832 3675) is the foremost national company for modern and classical repertoire and interpretations of native traditions. The Ballet Philippines, the Philippine Ballet Theatre and the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company are all based at the Cultural Centre of the Philippines (see Music). The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, also resident, is a main promoter of traditional dance. AC DanzMove is the dance troupe, located at Assumption College, Makati City (telephone: (02) 894 2678). Film There is a busy film industry in the Philippines which produces mostly sentimental and violent subject matter. José Estrada, the former president, was a career actor before moving into politics. Movie fans always remember Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now (1979) was filmed in the Philippines. Then President Marcos furnished the helicopters for the famous ‘Ride of the Valkyries’ air cavalry charge. The famed director Peter Weir filmed The Year of Living Dangerously (1982) and used Manila for Jakarta, instead of Saigon. The Shangri-La Cinema is situated at the Shangri-La Plaza, on the corner of Shaw Boulevard and EDSA, Mandaluyong City (telephone: (02) 633 7851). The SM Megamall, EDSA, Ortigas Centre, Mandaluyong (telephone: (02) 633 1901 or 632 9408), is a main multiplex cinema venue. Additional cinemas are located in Santa Cruz, around the junction of CM Recto Avenue and Rizal Avenue, or in Paco on Pedro Gil Street. Cultural Events The National Arts Month is a popular yearly arts festival held in February at many venues in Manila. At the same time is the annual Bamboo Organ Festival, at Las Piñas Village, near Manila. This event occurs in the 2nd week of February, bringing the world’s most important organists to this enchanting small town. In June, The Manila Film Festival coincides with the independence celebrations on 24th June and gives celebrants an opportunity to see their favourite stars. Literary Notes José Rizal, a novelist who wrote Noli Me Tangere or Touch Me Not (1887). He created contemporary Philippine literature which is a main work in the evolution of the modern national consciousness. His other famous novel, El Filibusterismo or Subversion (1891) is even more definite in its dissection of Spanish colonialism. British authors have contributed some of the best descriptions of Manila. James Hamilton-Paterson wrote Ghosts of Manila (1994), a story of the horrible events in the twilight of the Marcos era and thinly fictionalised from true events. James Fenton authored the last act of the Marcos soap opera in his memoir, The Snap Revolution (1986). It captures the occasion, but from an arguably patronising and leftist perspective. Corazon Aquino and the Brushfire Revolution (1995), by Robert Reid and Eileen Guerrero, follow the events differently but also with a jaded eye. William Boyd used Manila as a backdrop in 1902 in The Blue Afternoon (1997), Brownout on Breadfruit Boulevard (1995) by Timothy Mo makes an excellent play of Manila’s once daily electricity outages, weaving them with more than a whiff of scatology. A Short History of the Philippines (1969) by Teodoro Agoncillo, is believably the best work in this genre. ___________ Manila Getting Around Getting Around Manila - TravelPuppy.com Public Transport Manila’s public transport system is managed by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), EDSA corner of Orense Street, Guadalupe Makati (telephone: (02) 882 4150/77; e-mail: info@mmda.gov.ph). There is no centralised transport pass or ticket schemes. The public transport situation is more like a free-for-all. The elevated Mass Rail Transit (MRT) or Metrorail, is under construction and has two lines at present. The Light Rail Transit (LRT), finished in 1985, runs from Baclaran to Monumento from 4.30 am to 10.45 pm, along Taft Avenue in the south and Rizal Avenue in the north, covering 16 stations. The MRT3 line, or Metrostar operates from 6.00 am to 9.30 pm between from EDSA/Taft Avenue in the south and the North station. The LRT uses magnetic-strip swipe cards for tickets that can be purchased at ticket booths in each station. The fare is P12. There is a reduced fare of P3 when boarding the Baclaran bound trains at Quirino station or later, or Monumento-bound trains at Tayuman station or later. LRT tickets are single tickets for single journeys and only valid on the date of purchase. Stored value tickets sold for P120 can be used for numerous journeys, relying on the value stored and are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. During peak hours, pickpockets are active. There are a number of privately-owned bus operators that service Manila but they do not provide standard bus passes. Main companies include DMTC (telephone: (02) 373 2981) and JD Transit (telephone: (02) 911 0161). Local buses use the main roads, such as the EDSA, but are not permitted into most streets in Manila's centre. The bus fares range from P4 to P15, depending on distance and if buses are air-conditioned. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, stations and some shops. Buses operate daily from 5.00 am until 11.30 pm. Taxis Taxis accommodate everywhere from seven to ten people and can be caught anywhere throughout the city. It is advisable to make sure the taxi meters are on to avoid being over-charged. A couple of the better known and reputable companies are EMP, white taxis with yellow stripes; and R&E, yellow taxis with green stripes. Starting rate is P25 and P2 for every kilometre. Avis Taxi (telephone: (02) 532 5758 or 844 4884) is a trustworthy radio-cab company and P35 is added to the meter rate as a pick-up fee. Tipping is at your discretion. Jeepneys They are everywhere in the city and available 24 hours a day. These brightly coloured jeeps are decorated with tassels, decorative horns and mirrors. They are chaotic, garish, exuberant and totally insecure. However, a ride on one is a must and an educational experience. The inexpensive jeepneys transport about one-third of the city’s commuters. You can flag these vehicles anywhere and the destination is shown either in the window or on the side of the vehicle. The cost can be between P4 and P10. Limousines Limousines can be hired from all the major hotels. Avis offers a limousine service with information at the airport (telephone: (02) 832 2088). The cost for a limousine with driver is usually P2,500 per day and P12,500 per month for those who want to employ a driver on a regular basis. Driving in Manila Driving conditions are considered disreputable with heavy traffic jams and haze. The Filipino drivers are aggressive and ignore all traffic official rules, particularly the lane discipline, one-way streets and giving ways to others. Horn honking is used all the time. There are car parks at large shopping centres and the main business and financial areas, such as Makati and Ortigas, but it is recommended you leave your car at the hotel as parking is just as chaotic as driving. A congestion programme controlling cars from driving into Manila to reduce pollution is in effect between 7.00 am to 7.00 pm. Number plates ending in 1 or 2 on Mondays, 3 or 4 on Tuesdays and so on, with 9 or 0 banned on Fridays. Tourists are not advised to drive in the capital as there is a high risk of accident. Jeepneys provide a cheaper and more colourful way of travelling around. Car Hire The most reliable are Avis (telephone: (02) 742 2871), Budget (telephone: (02) 816 6682) and Hertz (telephone: (02) 897 5151). Minimum age is 25 years for these major chains. Many local operators do not demand this. An international driving licence is the only requirement. Ask agencies to furnish photocopies of the car registration papers and tax receipts. Rates vary though are typically P2,500 per day for an air-conditioned vehicle from the international chains. Local companies, such as JB Rent-A-Car (telephone: (02) 526 6288) or KEI Transport (telephone: (02) 524 6834), provide similar cars for P1,200-1,300 per day. Cash payments require deposits and is usually 150% of the estimated hire fee. Bicycle and Scooter Hire There are bicycles and scooters for rent, but their use is not recommended owing to a high risk of accident. ____________ Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport Manila International Airport - TravelPuppy.com Address Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Pascay City 1300, Manila, Philippines Location The airport is located 7 kilometres or 4 miles south of the city centre (Metro Manila) Country code 63 Airport code MNL Telephone (02) 833 5998 Fax (0)2 833 1180 Time Zone GMT + 8 Hours Number of Terminals 2 Airport News Close to the old terminal is the new Centennial Terminal II, serving as the international and domestic hub for the national carrier, Philippine Airlines. It also serves a number of major airlines and charter flights from Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other regional centres. Philippine Airlines flies to 26 cities in 19 countries and has flights to and from 43 domestic destinations. Other domestic carriers are Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific. International airlines serving the Philippines include Canadian Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Gulf Air, Kuwait Airways, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Qantas, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways. Transfer Between Terminals A Jeepney operates between the terminals for a small fare. All Philippine Airline flights operate from Centennial Terminal 2. Driving Directions From Metro Manila take the South Superhighway to the airport. Car Parking Car parks are available in front of the International Passenger Terminal (parking A, B and C) and in front of Centennial Terminal 2. Car Hire Avis, Budget and Hertz have car hire services at the airport. Public Transport Air: Charter flights can be arranged at the airport for travel to the islands within the country. Road: Drive time to the city centre, Metro Manila, can vary subject to the time of day. This could probably range from 30 minutes (at best) up to 2 hours during peak times. Taxi: There are yellow metered taxis which should be booked at one of the taxi stands prior to leaving the airport. Complimentary hotel transportation can be arranged at the airport's hotel reservations desks. Flagging a taxi on the roadside outside the airport can be very expensive and dangerous. Only take a taxi with a Department of Tourism (DOT) accreditation. Bus: An airport bus operates to the city centre (Metro Manila) and takes approximately 45 minutes. An inexpensive and regular Metrobus which takes about 60 to 90 minutes, also operates to the city centre. For transportation to Cubao, Makati, Quezon City or any other destinations along Manila's ring road, buses can be caught outside the airport on the main road. They depart every 15 minutes between 5.00 am and 11.00 pm. These buses are behind the car park and under the flyover to the right. They also make stops outside the Domestic Terminal. Jeepney: Are privately-owned and operate from and to Baclaran where there is a metro rail terminal along Quirino Avenue to complete the journey to the city. The metro rail runs to Pedro Gil station in Malate or United Nations Avenue in Ermita between 5.30 am and 10.30 pm daily. Information and Help Desks Information desks are open 24 hours and tourist counters can be found in the Arrivals hall. Airport Facilities Airport facilities include a post office (open Monday to Sunday 8.00 am to 11.00 pm) and banks. All banks provide a bureau de change service during flight operations. They are located in both the Arrivals and Departures halls. Eating and drinking There are numerous bars and restaurants. Shopping Duty-free shops are available. Other facilities A left-luggage room, porters, massage, baby-changing facilities, 24-hour medical centre and pharmacy. Conference and Business Facilities A business centre, Internet access, computer rental, fax service, telephone and executive lounge can all be found at the airport. Handicapped Facilities The airport is wheelchair-accessible. Wheelchairs can be requested from the airline ground staff. The airport is improving its facilities for those passengers with hearing disabilities and those visually-impaired. Airport Hotels The only airport hotel is located 2 kilometres or 1 mile from the terminal. Hotels in Manila include the Best Western La Corona, Hyatt Regency Manila, and Heritage Hotel Manila. Discounted reservations can be made through DirectRooms.com ______________Manila Nightlife Manila Nightlife - TravelPuppy.com All the energy of the Filipino life appears in Manila at night. Bars and entertainment centres will keep you well fed, and in the festive mood for months on end. Clean-up campaigns have reduced the infamous sex tourism sleaze, though it can still be found. Those in search of genuine native entertainment should visit JM Nakpil Street, Makati Avenue or Pasay Road in Makati, or anywhere in Malate and Ermita areas. Most bars and clubs have live music and most places close at 2.00 am or 3.00 am during the weekdays and at 5.00 am at weekends. Dress codes vary with the venue but are very casual. The legal drinking age limit is 18 years old. A night of drinks at a normal bar will probably cost from P150 to P300 and much more for those at girlie bars. The Manila Bulletin City Guide and ClickTheCity are good sources for listings in Manila. Bars More upscale bars include the Orchid Bar and the Café Vogue, both of which can be found at the Manila Midtown Hotel, on the corner of Pedro Gil Street and M Adriatico Street; the Lobby Lounge, at the Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park; the Sky Lounge, at the Manila Diamond Hotel, corner of Roxas boulevard and Dr J Quintos Street; and Top of the Century, at the Century Park Sheraton Hotel, 599 P Ocampo Street. For Westerners who have lived in Manila head for the San Mig Pub, Legaspi Street; and the Prince of Wales Pub and Grill, New Plaza Building, Greenbelt Mall Ayala Centre, Makati. An ideal place for East-meets-West is the Hard Rock Café on 1786 M Adriatico Street, Malate. For those looking for lively atmosphere, the Streetlife, on the 4th floor of Quad III, Ayala Centre is a great place for it. Casinos Within the Holiday Inn Manila Hotel, on United Nations Avenue, Ermita, the Casino Filipino Pavilion is open 24 hours a day. Dress code is smart, and the minimum age for entering is 21 years with an entry fee of P100. A passport is required. The Casino Filipino Heritage also offers gambling. It is located in the Heritage Hotel Manila, at the intersection of Roxas Boulevard and EDSA, in Pasay City. Clubs Ballroom dancing is held from Monday through Saturday evenings at Remedios Circle, with In the Mood. Upscale venues include the Infinity Club, 1712 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City; and La Legende Entertainment Complex, 718 Quezon Avenue, Quezon City. For house, trance, raves, and club culture, there are Laser Planet, at Star City, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay; Synergy, on the 3rd floor, Glorietta II, Ayala Centre, Makati; and The Verve Room, on the 2nd floor, 607 J Nakpil Street, Malate. For more information on these types of venues, get any flyer named ‘Groove Nation’ or ‘Consortium’. For more unconventional options, there is the Hobbit House on Mabini Street. A folk club is staffed mainly by dwarfs. Live Music There are many Philippine live bands which range from the impressive to the ludicrous. The Cowboy Grill, on the corner of Mabini Street and Arquiza Street, Ermita, plays rock favourites. Popular with Filipinos is karaoke and English singers can even compete with the local talent. Zu, in the Shangri-La Hotel, on Makati Avenue is an ex pat joint. For a wide selection of local venues, try the EDSA International Entertainment Complex, in Pasay City. ________Manila Shopping Manila Shopping Guide - TravelPuppy.com There are a wide variety of high quality shopping malls to explore. The intersection of EDSA and Ortigas Avenue in Quezon City is a main area, and all the shopping malls of – Robinson’s Galleria, Shangri-La Plaza and the Shoemart (SM) Megamall, with Greenhills, are nearby. Another Robinson’s Mall is at Adriatico Street, in Ermita, located right in the main tourist and entertainment area. The Ayala Centre super-mall in Makati also houses the Glorietta Centre and the Greenbelt Square Mall. All shopping malls sell designer goods and Western products far cheaper than back home. Makati is known for being the most classy. The malls are open from 10.00 am to 10.00 pm or 11.00 pm. The local markets are a totally opposite world, selling unique products from many of the Philippines’ islands. Popular buys include carved wooden plates, bowls and utensils and the crafts of the tribal villages in the more isolated regions of the archipelago. Some favourite items are souvenirs made from seashells like the hanging lamps glazed with shell panels and butterfly knives. Buyers should remember the environmental and legal issues attached to these products. High quality paintings are also provided. Divisoria Market, near Ilalim ng Tulay near Quiapo, has many handicrafts in stock. Chinatown is one of the most best known markets, specialising in fabrics and clothing bargains. It is located at the Central Market in Santa Cruz. Opening hours are from dawn until well into the evening. For those that don't like to bargain for souvenirs, try the Museum of The Pilipino People or the handicrafts section of the main shopping malls. Sales Tax: None ____________ Manila Sightseeing Manila Sightseeing Guide - TravelPuppy.com Overview The capital follows the curve of Manila Bay approximately from north to south. It is the largest city in Southeast Asia with approximately 10 million people. Its relentless bustle and notorious nightlife are both exciting and draining, but if it's action you're looking prepare yourself for non-stop action. Malate and Ermita are the main tourist destinations and far more salubrious. The greenbelt of Rizal Park and the old walled Spanish town of Intramuros just to the north. Across the Pasig River are Quiapo, a number of colourful markets, and Binondo, with Chinatown. The major shopping and commercial centre is Makati along with the large shopping malls of Greenhills to its north. Quezon City to the north and Pasay City to the south, also have tourist attractions. Tourist Information Philippine Tourism Authority (DOT) 5th Floor, DOT Building, TM Kalaw Street, Teodoro Valencia Circle Telephone: (02)524 2502. Fax: (02) 525 6490. Email: deptour@info.com.ph Web site: www.tourism.gov.ph Opening Hours: 7.00 am to 6.00 pm daily. Passes Manila does not have a systematic programme of visitor passes. Chinese Cemetery Founded in the 1850s by Lim Ong and Tan Quien Sien (Don Carlos Palanca), the Chinese Cemetery was designated as the resting-place for the Chinese citizens who were denied burial in Catholic cemeteries. Manila’s Chinese Cemetery hosts complete sets of grave goods. These are tombs outfitted with air conditioning, plumbing, flushing toilets, chandeliers and all other modern conveniences for the well to do corpse. To honour the dead and the status of their survivors, entire streets are laid out. The poor are laid to rest in the terraces to the left of the Buddhist Temple. Guided tours for the more Baroque excesses are available. South Gate on Aurora Avenue, Blumentritt Transport: Jeepney Monumento. Opening Hours: 7.30 am to 7.00 pm daily. Admission: Free. Cockfighting The word "cockpit" has nothing to do with a jet airplane. Cockpits are part of the local scene though not all travellers enjoy this bloodthirsty spectacle. Cockfighting fills the same place in the national psyche as bullfighting does for the former Spanish rulers. Prize gamecocks are pampered and groomed, then sent into battle with blades on their feet. Betting for each round can be hectic. Poorer Filipinos in the provinces stage fights between cheap native birds. Major cockpit venues include the Libertad cockpit, with fights every day except Thursday. Dolores Street, Pasay City Transport: Metrorail or jeepney to Libertad station, then Evangelista-Libertad jeepney. Opening Hours: Friday to Wednesday; local newspapers lists fight times Admission: P30. Fort Santiago Dating back 1571, Fort Santiago is one of the oldest and most impressive colonial buildings in the country. The entrance is on the northwestern trip to Intramuros. It looks out on the sea with its canons trained to ward off pirates and invaders. The most renowned prisoner held here was national hero, José Rizal, who spent his last days here before his death at the hands of the Spanish in 1896. Freedom fighters died here during the Japanese occupation. In some cell blocks American POWs were left to be drowned by the rising tide. This was one of the rumoured resting places for the legendary wartime treasure of Yamashita’s Gold and the victims’ last resting place has been disturbed by treasure searchers. The fort suffered major damage when the Japanese used it as their last attack against the Americans. It is now a park, with its own resident theatre company that performs traditional and modern plays. At its centre is the Rizal Shrine, containing relics of the hero including one of his vertebrae, the 1st draft of his novel Noli Me Tangere or Touch Me Not (1887) and the original of his death poem. Entrance is at the end of General Luna Street, Intramuros Telephone: (02) 527 2889 Transport: Jeepney to Bonifacio Drive, Metrorail Central. Opening Hours: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm daily (fort); Tuesday to Sunday 8.00 am to 12 noon and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm (museum). Admission: P40; concessions available. Intramuros Founded in 1571 by the Spanish, Intramuros is located on the southern banks of the Pasig River. Sections of the encircling wall, which was begun in 1590, remain, including a number of gates. A poorly defensible site, Intramuros was the site for most major conflicts and invasions to befall the pre-independence Philippines. It culminated with the devastating Battle for Manila between the Japanese and Americans in 1945 in which 100,000 locals died. Renovations are taking place and many attractive historic buildings still remain. A walk beneath their ramparts gives a colonial experience hard to match in modern Asia. Intramuros Telephone: (02) 527 4084. Fax: 527 3084. Transport: Jeepney to Bonifacio Drive, Metrorail Central. Opening Hours: 24 hours daily. Admission: Free. Malacañang Palace and Museum This palace was the former summer residence of the Spanish Governor General and is now the seat of government and the official residence of the head of state. Collections of each successive president of the Philippines are on display in the museum, including at one time, Imelda Marcos’ famous shoe collection, though they have now been removed. Gate Six, JP Laurel Street, San Miguel Telephone: (02) 733 3721. Transport: Jeepney San Miguel/Malacañang from Ilalim ng Tulay Market in Quiapo. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 3.00 pm. Admission: P200 (Monday to Wednesday); P40 (Thursday and Friday). Manila Bay Sunset Cruise Cloud effects over the capital’s natural harbour occur as a result of the high humidity. This in turn creates wonderful sunsets over the Manila Bay. Some skeptics say that the light show allows spectators to turn their backs on the squalor and chaos of the city itself. Ideal places to watch the sunset include Rizal Park, Roxas Boulevard or the cultural complex around San Isidro. The SV Carina, that sails around Manila Bay from Rizal Park is also a good way to see the sunset. The cruise lasts between 45-60 minutes. SV Carina Departures from Rizal Park Sailing time: An hour before sunset. Admission: P160. National Museum of the Philippines Established in 1901, the National Museum of the Philippines boasts the official national baseline collections in the sciences and humanities, in relation to the environment and history of the country. Its collections are separated into 2 main parts: the National Museum itself, sheltered in the main building (formerly known as the Old Congress Building of the Philippines), features the arts, natural sciences and other support divisions; and the National Museum of the Filipino People, located in the former Finance Building, boasts the preserved timbers and treasures of the San Diego, a Spanish galleon that sunk in off the Philippine waters after a collision in 1600. It also has numerous archaeological exhibits of the Philippines’ prehistory, as well as the skull of ‘Tabon Man’, the oldest human retains in the archipelago. The museum has 5 divisions, namely: Art, Botany, Zoology, Geology, Geology and Anthropology. Padre Burgos Street, Rizal Park Telephone: (02) 527 1215 Fax: (02) 527 0306. Email: nmuseum@i-next.net Transport: Jeepney to Taft Avenue; jeepney from Quiapo to TM Kalaw Street via Taft Avenue. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. Admission: Free (National Museum); P100, concessions available (Museum of the Filipino People). Rizal Park Rizal Park, which is also known as Luneta, is one of the largest parks in South East Asia. With over 58 hectares, it is named after Dr. Jose Rizal, the great anti-colonial fighter and thinker. He is memorialised in the Diorama of the Martyrdom of Dr. José Rizal, and his remains were interred in the Rizal Monument in 1912. The many gardens include a recreation of the entire Philippines archipelago in the eastern ponds. There are also a Chinese Garden, a Japanese Garden, an Orchidarium, a chess plaza and an area for roller-skaters. The Museum of the Pilipino People is also located here (see below). In the morning, residents assemble to practise tai chi, stick-fighting and other varied forms of martial arts. Free Concert are held on most Sundays in an open-air auditorium and there are also impressive dinosaurs at the Children's Amusement Park. Taft Avenue to Manila Bay Transport: Jeepney to Taft Avenue; jeepney from Quiapo to TM Kalaw Street via Taft Avenue. Opening Hours: 7.00 am to 7.00 pm daily (ornamental gardens). Admission: Free. San Agustin Church and Museum Built in the centre of Intramuros, San Agustin was the mother church. It was the first Spanish stone church to be built in the country and was completed in 1606. The interior murals post date earthquakes in 1863 and 1889, which brought down one of its towers. The adjoining Augustinian monastery is home to the San Agustin Museum. It contains colonial religious art, altarpieces and screens salvaged whole from other churches in 1945. General Luna Street, Intramuros Telephone: (02) 527 4061 Transport: Jeepney to Bonifacio Drive, Metrorail Central. Opening Hours: 9.00 am to 12 noon and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm daily. Admission: P45; concessions available. ___________ Manila Sightseeing Manila Sightseeing Guide - TravelPuppy.com Overview The capital follows the curve of Manila Bay approximately from north to south. It is the largest city in Southeast Asia with approximately 10 million people. Its relentless bustle and notorious nightlife are both exciting and draining, but if it's action you're looking prepare yourself for non-stop action. Malate and Ermita are the main tourist destinations and far more salubrious. The greenbelt of Rizal Park and the old walled Spanish town of Intramuros just to the north. Across the Pasig River are Quiapo, a number of colourful markets, and Binondo, with Chinatown. The major shopping and commercial centre is Makati along with the large shopping malls of Greenhills to its north. Quezon City to the north and Pasay City to the south, also have tourist attractions. Tourist Information Philippine Tourism Authority (DOT) 5th Floor, DOT Building, TM Kalaw Street, Teodoro Valencia Circle Telephone: (02)524 2502. Fax: (02) 525 6490. Email: deptour@info.com.ph Web site: www.tourism.gov.ph Opening Hours: 7.00 am to 6.00 pm daily. Passes Manila does not have a systematic programme of visitor passes. Chinese Cemetery Founded in the 1850s by Lim Ong and Tan Quien Sien (Don Carlos Palanca), the Chinese Cemetery was designated as the resting-place for the Chinese citizens who were denied burial in Catholic cemeteries. Manila’s Chinese Cemetery hosts complete sets of grave goods. These are tombs outfitted with air conditioning, plumbing, flushing toilets, chandeliers and all other modern conveniences for the well to do corpse. To honour the dead and the status of their survivors, entire streets are laid out. The poor are laid to rest in the terraces to the left of the Buddhist Temple. Guided tours for the more Baroque excesses are available. South Gate on Aurora Avenue, Blumentritt Transport: Jeepney Monumento. Opening Hours: 7.30 am to 7.00 pm daily. Admission: Free. Cockfighting The word "cockpit" has nothing to do with a jet airplane. Cockpits are part of the local scene though not all travellers enjoy this bloodthirsty spectacle. Cockfighting fills the same place in the national psyche as bullfighting does for the former Spanish rulers. Prize gamecocks are pampered and groomed, then sent into battle with blades on their feet. Betting for each round can be hectic. Poorer Filipinos in the provinces stage fights between cheap native birds. Major cockpit venues include the Libertad cockpit, with fights every day except Thursday. Dolores Street, Pasay City Transport: Metrorail or jeepney to Libertad station, then Evangelista-Libertad jeepney. Opening Hours: Friday to Wednesday; local newspapers lists fight times Admission: P30. Fort Santiago Dating back 1571, Fort Santiago is one of the oldest and most impressive colonial buildings in the country. The entrance is on the northwestern trip to Intramuros. It looks out on the sea with its canons trained to ward off pirates and invaders. The most renowned prisoner held here was national hero, José Rizal, who spent his last days here before his death at the hands of the Spanish in 1896. Freedom fighters died here during the Japanese occupation. In some cell blocks American POWs were left to be drowned by the rising tide. This was one of the rumoured resting places for the legendary wartime treasure of Yamashita’s Gold and the victims’ last resting place has been disturbed by treasure searchers. The fort suffered major damage when the Japanese used it as their last attack against the Americans. It is now a park, with its own resident theatre company that performs traditional and modern plays. At its centre is the Rizal Shrine, containing relics of the hero including one of his vertebrae, the 1st draft of his novel Noli Me Tangere or Touch Me Not (1887) and the original of his death poem. Entrance is at the end of General Luna Street, Intramuros Telephone: (02) 527 2889 Transport: Jeepney to Bonifacio Drive, Metrorail Central. Opening Hours: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm daily (fort); Tuesday to Sunday 8.00 am to 12 noon and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm (museum). Admission: P40; concessions available. Intramuros Founded in 1571 by the Spanish, Intramuros is located on the southern banks of the Pasig River. Sections of the encircling wall, which was begun in 1590, remain, including a number of gates. A poorly defensible site, Intramuros was the site for most major conflicts and invasions to befall the pre-independence Philippines. It culminated with the devastating Battle for Manila between the Japanese and Americans in 1945 in which 100,000 locals died. Renovations are taking place and many attractive historic buildings still remain. A walk beneath their ramparts gives a colonial experience hard to match in modern Asia. Intramuros Telephone: (02) 527 4084. Fax: 527 3084. Transport: Jeepney to Bonifacio Drive, Metrorail Central. Opening Hours: 24 hours daily. Admission: Free. Malacañang Palace and Museum This palace was the former summer residence of the Spanish Governor General and is now the seat of government and the official residence of the head of state. Collections of each successive president of the Philippines are on display in the museum, including at one time, Imelda Marcos’ famous shoe collection, though they have now been removed. Gate Six, JP Laurel Street, San Miguel Telephone: (02) 733 3721. Transport: Jeepney San Miguel/Malacañang from Ilalim ng Tulay Market in Quiapo. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 3.00 pm. Admission: P200 (Monday to Wednesday); P40 (Thursday and Friday). Manila Bay Sunset Cruise Cloud effects over the capital’s natural harbour occur as a result of the high humidity. This in turn creates wonderful sunsets over the Manila Bay. Some skeptics say that the light show allows spectators to turn their backs on the squalor and chaos of the city itself. Ideal places to watch the sunset include Rizal Park, Roxas Boulevard or the cultural complex around San Isidro. The SV Carina, that sails around Manila Bay from Rizal Park is also a good way to see the sunset. The cruise lasts between 45-60 minutes. SV Carina Departures from Rizal Park Sailing time: An hour before sunset. Admission: P160. National Museum of the Philippines Established in 1901, the National Museum of the Philippines boasts the official national baseline collections in the sciences and humanities, in relation to the environment and history of the country. Its collections are separated into 2 main parts: the National Museum itself, sheltered in the main building (formerly known as the Old Congress Building of the Philippines), features the arts, natural sciences and other support divisions; and the National Museum of the Filipino People, located in the former Finance Building, boasts the preserved timbers and treasures of the San Diego, a Spanish galleon that sunk in off the Philippine waters after a collision in 1600. It also has numerous archaeological exhibits of the Philippines’ prehistory, as well as the skull of ‘Tabon Man’, the oldest human retains in the archipelago. The museum has 5 divisions, namely: Art, Botany, Zoology, Geology, Geology and Anthropology. Padre Burgos Street, Rizal Park Telephone: (02) 527 1215 Fax: (02) 527 0306. Email: nmuseum@i-next.net Transport: Jeepney to Taft Avenue; jeepney from Quiapo to TM Kalaw Street via Taft Avenue. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. Admission: Free (National Museum); P100, concessions available (Museum of the Filipino People). Rizal Park Rizal Park, which is also known as Luneta, is one of the largest parks in South East Asia. With over 58 hectares, it is named after Dr. Jose Rizal, the great anti-colonial fighter and thinker. He is memorialised in the Diorama of the Martyrdom of Dr. José Rizal, and his remains were interred in the Rizal Monument in 1912. The many gardens include a recreation of the entire Philippines archipelago in the eastern ponds. There are also a Chinese Garden, a Japanese Garden, an Orchidarium, a chess plaza and an area for roller-skaters. The Museum of the Pilipino People is also located here (see below). In the morning, residents assemble to practise tai chi, stick-fighting and other varied forms of martial arts. Free Concert are held on most Sundays in an open-air auditorium and there are also impressive dinosaurs at the Children's Amusement Park. Taft Avenue to Manila Bay Transport: Jeepney to Taft Avenue; jeepney from Quiapo to TM Kalaw Street via Taft Avenue. Opening Hours: 7.00 am to 7.00 pm daily (ornamental gardens). Admission: Free. San Agustin Church and Museum Built in the centre of Intramuros, San Agustin was the mother church. It was the first Spanish stone church to be built in the country and was completed in 1606. The interior murals post date earthquakes in 1863 and 1889, which brought down one of its towers. The adjoining Augustinian monastery is home to the San Agustin Museum. It contains colonial religious art, altarpieces and screens salvaged whole from other churches in 1945. General Luna Street, Intramuros Telephone: (02) 527 4061 Transport: Jeepney to Bonifacio Drive, Metrorail Central. Opening Hours: 9.00 am to 12 noon and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm daily. Admission: P45; concessions available. |
| Questo articolo è rilasciato sotto i termini della
GNU Free Documentation License Esso utilizza materiale tratto da http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila Cronologia/Autori: http://it.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Manila&action=history ManilaDa Wikipedia, l'enciclopedia libera.
Manila (Maynila in filippino) è la capitale delle Filippine. È situata sulla costa est della baia di Manila sulla più grande delle isole delle Filippine, Luzon. Nonostante le sacche di povertà presenti, è una delle città più cosmopolite del mondo e la sua area metropolitana è il centro economico, culturale ed industriale del paese. Manila è il centro di una prospera area metropolitana con oltre 10 milioni di abitanti. L'area di Metro Manila, alla quale la città di Manila appartiene, è un'enorme metropoli costituita da 17 città e municipalità. La città stessa, con il suo milione e mezzo di abitanti, è la seconda città più popolosa delle Filippine. Soltanto Quezon City, un'area suburbana della precedente capitale, è più popolosa. Manila nacque nel XVI secolo da una colonia mussulmana chiamata May Nilad sulle rive del fiume Pasig nella sede del governo coloniale spagnolo che controllò le Filippine per 333 anni. Nel 1898 gli Stati Uniti occuparono e presero il controllo dell'arcipelago fino al 1935 e Manila divenne una delle più note città dell'oriente. Durante la Seconda guerra mondiale, gran parte della città venne distrutta ma in seguito venne ricostruita. Nel 1975, per gestire meglio quanto avveniva nella regione in rapido sviluppo, la città di Manila e i paesi e città nei dintorni vennero incorporati in un'entità indipendente, Manila Metropolitana. Questo venne stabilito l'8 novembre 1975 mediante il decreto presidenziale numero 824 dal precedente presidente Ferdinand Marcos che creava la Metropolitan Manila Commission, diventata poi la Metro Manila Development Authority. Oggi la città e l'area metropolitana costituiscono un importante centro economico e culturale ma esistono grossi problemi legati alla sovrappopolazione, traffico, inquinamento e criminalità.
[modifica] Lo stemmaLo stemma di Manila riporta le parole Lungsod ng Maynila e Pilipinas, le parole in filippino per città di Manila e Filippine, in un cerchio attorno allo stemma. Il cerchio contiene inoltre sei stelle gialle cre rappresentano le sei città che costituiscono il distretto. Lo stemma, nella forma dello stemma precoloniale, riporta il soprannome di perla d'oriente in alto; un leone di mare al centro, in riferimento all'influenza spagnola ed infine le onde del fiume Pasig e della baia di Manila in basso. I colori dello stemma richiamano quelli della bandiera delle Filippine. [modifica] La cittàManila è costruita lungo la foce del fiume Pasig, sulla costa orientale della baia di Manila posta sul lato occidentale di Luzon. È a circa 950 km a sud-est di Hong Kong e 2.400 km a nord-est di Singapore. Il fiume divide la città in due. La città è costruita quasi totalmente sopra secoli di depositi alluvionali portati da fiume Pasig e su alcune zone di terreno contese all baia di Manila. Lo schema della città risale grosso modo al periodo della dominazione spagnola quando vi erano una serie di villaggi attorno l'Intramuros. L'Intramuros è la città circondata da mura originaria. Durante il periodo dell'occupazione statunitense, è stato tentato un riassetto urbanistico utilizzando i progetti di Daniel Burnham della parte della città a sud del fiume Pasig. Manila confina con altre città e comuni del dipartimento di Metro Manila: Navotas e Caloocan City a nord, Quezon City a nord-est, San Juan e Mandaluyong City ad est, Makati City a sud-est e Pasay City a sud. La città è divisa in 16 distretti geografici. Solo un distretto non esisteva ai tempi della città originaria. Gli otto distretti della parte a nord del fiume Pasig sono: Binondo, Quiapo, Sampaloc, San Miguel, San Nicolas, Santa Cruz, Santa Mesa e Tondo. Gli altri otto sono: Ermita, Intramuros, Malate, Paco, Pandacan, Port Area, San Andres e Santa Ana. San Andres era precedentemente parte di Santa Ana e Santa Mesa parte di Sampaloc. Ognuno dei distretti, eccetto la Port Area, ha la propria chiesa e molti di questi distretti hanno ottenuto il riconoscimento dei propri diritti. Il distretto di Binondo è abitato suprattutto dalla popolazione di origine cinese. Tondo è il distretto più povero mentre Ermita e Malate sono ben conosciuti dai turisti in quanto vi sono presenti numerosi bar, ristoranti, hotel di lusso e centri commerciali. Il fiume Pasig è attraversato da numerosi ponti. A partire da est si incontrano i seguenti ponti: Roxas (conosciuto anche come ponte Del Pan), Jones, McArthur, Quezon, Ayala, Nagtahan (conosciuto anche come ponte Mabini), Pandacan e Lambingan.
[modifica] La città con la più alta densità abitativa del mondoCon una popolazione di 1.654.761 abitanti registrata nel 1995 ed una superficie di 38,52 km², Manila ha la più alta densità abitativa del mondo con 43.258 abitanti/km² (il distretto 6 è quello con la densità più alta con 68.266 abitanti//km² seguito dai primi due distretti (Tondo) con 64.936 e 64.710, il distretto 5 è il meno densamente popolato con 19.235 abitanti/km²). Ogni giorno si aggiungono agli abitanti circa un milione di persone fra lavoratori e studenti. La densità di popolazione di Manila surclassa quelle di Parigi (20.164 abitanti/km²), Shanghai (16.364 abitanti/km², con il distretto di Nanshi con una densità di 56.785 abitanti/km²), Portici (13.246 abitanti/km²), Buenos Aires (2.179 abitanti/km², con una densità massima di 10.444), Tokyo (10.087 abitanti/km²), Città del Messico (11.700 abitanti/km²) ed Istanbul (1.878 abitanti/km², con il distretto di Fatih che raggiunge 48.173 abitanti/km²).
[modifica] Parchi e spazi apertiImmediatamente a sud di Intramuros si trova il Rizal Park, il parco più importante del paese. Noto anche come Luneta (termine spagnolo per "luna crescente") e precedentemente conosciuto come Bagumbayan. Il Rizal park misura 60 ettari e si trova dove José Rizal, eroe nazionale, fu giustiziato dagli Spagnoli con l'accusa di sovversivo. Nel parco si trova un monumento sul luogo dove avvenne l'esecuzione. Il monumento a Rizal è il punto da cui si misurano le distanze delle strade sull'isola di Luzon. Tra le attrazioni del parco si trovano giardini cinesi e giapponesi, il dipartimento del turismo, il Museo nazionale del popolo filippino, la Biblioteca nazionale delle Filippine, il planetario, un auditorium all'aria aperta, una mappa in rilievo delle Filippine, l'area delle fontane, un laghetto per i bambini, una piazza con il gioco degli scacchi, una presentazione sonora e luminosa e il Quirino Grandstand. Un altro famoso spazio aperto presente a manila è il Baywalk. Questa passeggiata si trova di fronte alla baia di Manila dove è possibile ammirare uno dei più bei tramonti del mondo. Le palme da cocco, un caleidoscopio gigante, caffè e ristoranti all'aperto e complessi musicali punteggiano questi due chilometri di spazio accanto alla Roxas Boulevard, Accanto al Rizal park, Manila possiede numerosi altri spazi aperti. Rajah Sulayman Park, Manila Boardwalk, Liwasang Bonifacio, Plaza Miranda, Paco Park, Adriatico Circle, Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden e il Malacañang Garden sono alcuni degli altri parchi della città. Nella parte più a nord di Manila si trovano i cimiteri di Loyola, cinese e il Manila North Green Park. [modifica] Centri commerciali e mercati pubblici[modifica] Luoghi d'interesse
Mappa di Manila
[modifica] StoriaLa storia di Manila inizia da una colonia mussulmana posta sulla foce del fiume Pasig sulle coste della baia di Manila. Il nome deriva dalla parola maynilad che significa "qui si trova il nilad". Il nilad è una mangrovia dai fiori bianchi che cresce abbondantemente nella zona. Intorno alla metà del XVI secolo l'area dove attualmente si trova Manila era governata da tre rajà (capi della comunità mussulmana. Essi erano Rajah Sulayman e Rajah Matanda che governavano le comunità a sude del Pasig e Rajah Lakandula che governava la comunità a nord del fiume. Manila era il sultanato mussumano più a nord fra le isole. Era legato ai sultanati del Brunei, Sulu e Ternate.
[modifica] L'arrivo degli SpagnoliNel 1570 una spedizione spagnola inviata dal conquistatore Miguel López de Legazpi richiese la conquista di Manila. Il suo comandante in seconda Martín de Goiti partì da Cebu e giunse a Manila. I mussulmani li accolsero ma Goiti aveva altri piani. I 300 soldati spagnoli marciarono su Manila e la battaglia fu combattuta da truppe spagnole pesantemente armate che sconfissero i mussulmani e rasero al suolo la colona. Legazpi ed i suoi uomini giunsero l'anno successivo e stipularono un trattato di pace con i tre rajà ed infine organizzarono un consiglio cittadino composto da due sindaci, dodici consiglieri e un segretario. Fu costruita una città fortificata nota come Itramuros sulla riva sud del fiume Pasig per proteggere i colonizzatori spagnoli. Il 10 giugno 1574 Filippo II di Spagna diede a Manila il titolo di Insigne y Siempre Leal Ciudad (Città insigne e sempre leale). Nel 1595 Manila fu proclamata capitale delle isole Filippine. [modifica] La rivoluzione delle Filippine[modifica] L'occupazione statunitense
Escolta Street a Manila. Vista
stereoscopica, 1899
Il quartier generale delle USAFFE era localizzato a Manila come il U.S. 31st Infantry Regiment e la U.S. 808th Military Police Company. I quartier generali e le caserme della divisione Filippine erano posti a sud presso il Fort William McKinley. I quartier generali delle USAFFE erano nella periferia della citta, presso il Nielson Field. Nei paraggi, al Nichols Field era di stanza lo U.S. 20th Air Base Group. Un battaglione del U.S. 12th Quartermaster Regiment era presente nell'area portuale e gli addestramenti per i furieri dell'esercito filippino si svolgevano qui. In un raggio di 130 km da Manila si trovavano anche sei campi volo della U.S. Far East Air Force tra cui Clark Field, Nichols Field e Nielson Field. [modifica] La Seconda guerra mondialeDopo che alle truppe statunitensi fu ordinato di ritirarsi dalla città il 31 dicembre 1941 Manila fu dichiarata città aperta dal presidente Manuel Quezon e fu occupata dalle forze giapponesi il 2 gennaio 1942 ma il 5 febbraio 1945 il generale statunitense Douglas MacArthur mantenne la promessa di tornare nelle Filippine (vedi la voce battaglia di Leyte). Dal 3 febbraio al 3 marzo, dopo il termine della battaglia a Intramuros, la città di Manila completamente devastata fu ufficialmente liberata. Le truppe alleate non raggiunsero la città in tempo per prevenire il massacro di Manila. [modifica] Manila e la sicurezzaManila ha subito diversi attacchi da parte di militanti. La metropoli è stata l'obiettivo di due gruppi: Moro Islamic Liberation Front e Abu Sayyaf, inoltre nella città sono state scoperte due cellule di Al Qaida. Il progetto Bojinka, un attacco su grande scala pianificato fra la fine del 1994 e l'inizio del 1995, aveva tra gli obiettivi anche Manila. Il progetto fu abbandonato dopo la notte fra il 6 e il 7 gennaio 1995 quando un incendio in un appartamento portò alla scoperta da parte degli investigatori di un computer portatile contenente i piani. [modifica] TrasportiL'area di Manila è servita dal Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), oltre 30 linee aeree forniscono collegamenti con 26 città di 19 paesi di tutto il mondo. Circa quattordici milioni di viaggiatori utilizzano ogni anno il NAIA, quello che negli anni '30 era un aeroporto interno. Nell'ottobre 1999 è stato aperto un secondo aeroporto, il Philippines International Airport (PIA) o NAIA 2 ribattezzato Centennial Airport, costruito con investimenti statunitensi, coreani, giapponesi e tedeschi. Il Centennial Airport è utilizzato esclusivamente dalla compagnia di bandiera Philippine Airlines sia per voli interni che internazionali mentre le altre compagnie utilizzano il NAIA. Esiste un piccolo aeroporto per voli interni a 1,5 miglia dal NAIA che è lo scalo principale per Asian Spirit, Cebu Pacific, South East Asian Airlines e Air Philippines. Queste compagnie locali utilizzano Boeing 737 e 757 ed ancora piccoli aeroplani bimotore. L'aeroporto locale serve tutte le principali città delle Filippine fra le 5 e le 17 di ogni giorno. [modifica] GemellaggiManila è gemellata con:
[modifica] Altri progetti[modifica] Collegamenti esterni |
|||||||||||||||||||
