Join us as we recount our first day in Manila, Philippines, from navigating the airport to indulging in local cuisine at Jollibee and enjoying a stunning sunset at a rooftop bar. Discover our experiences with transportation, food, and the vibrant city life that exceeded our expectations.
Welcome to our adventure in the Philippines! This is our first time visiting this beautiful country, and we are excited to share our experiences in Manila. From the moment we landed, we were eager to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer.
We arrived at Manila Airport at 7:00 AM, filled with anticipation. After navigating through the bustling crowd, we made our way to the ATMs to withdraw some cash and purchase a SIM card. The airport was well-organized, with clear signage directing us to the necessary services.
After a bit of confusion at the ATM, we managed to withdraw 1,000 pesos (approximately £13) and purchased a SIM card for our stay. The process was straightforward, and we appreciated the friendly assistance from the staff. With our phones connected, we were ready to explore the city.
As we stepped outside the airport, we were greeted by the warm sun and the lively atmosphere of Manila. The traffic was intense, but the ride-hailing service Grab made it easy for us to book a ride to our hotel. Our driver was friendly and shared insights about the city, including the notorious traffic conditions.
On our way to the hotel, we noticed the unique jeepneys, a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines. We were excited to try one later! The streets were bustling with vendors selling drinks and snacks, and we couldn't wait to dive into the local culture.
Upon arriving at our hotel, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of our accommodation for just $30 a night. The check-in process was smooth, and we were eager to drop off our bags and start exploring.
Before heading out, we took a moment to freshen up. We were thrilled to have found a great deal on our hotel through Planning, a site that helps travelers find affordable accommodations. With our bags settled, we were ready to hit the streets of Manila.
Our first stop was a charming coffee shop where we enjoyed refreshing drinks. The atmosphere was cozy, and we were delighted to find such cute cafes in the city. The coffee was delicious and provided the much-needed energy boost after our long travel day.
Next on our agenda was trying the famous Jollibee, a beloved fast-food chain in the Philippines. We were excited to experience the local flavors and ordered a variety of dishes, including Chicken Joy, spaghetti, and a peach mango pie. The food was surprisingly good, and we were impressed by the quality and taste.
The Chicken Joy was crispy and flavorful, and the spaghetti had a unique sweetness that we enjoyed. The peach mango pie was a delightful dessert that topped off our meal perfectly. We were thrilled to have our first authentic Filipino meal at Jollibee, and it did not disappoint.
After our meal, we stumbled upon a coconut vendor and decided to indulge in fresh coconut water. The vendor skillfully opened the coconut for us, and we enjoyed sipping the refreshing drink while walking through the city. It was a perfect way to cool down in the warm weather.
We had heard that the Philippines is known for its shopping malls, so we headed to the Power Plant Mall. The mall was beautifully designed, having been converted from an old power station. It was a pleasant surprise to find such a clean and modern shopping environment.
Inside, we found a mix of high-end and affordable shops, as well as a variety of dining options. The atmosphere was calm and inviting, making it a great place to relax and explore. We enjoyed wandering through the mall, taking in the unique architecture and vibrant ambiance.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to a rooftop bar at the Raffles Hotel. The view was breathtaking, and we were treated to a stunning sunset over the city. The ambiance was luxurious, and we felt grateful to be experiencing such a beautiful moment on our first day in Manila.
Our first day in Manila exceeded all expectations. From the warm hospitality of the locals to the delicious food and stunning sights, we fell in love with the city. We can't wait to share more of our adventures in the Philippines, so stay tuned for our next updates!
