There are a lot of ways to spend your spare time in Manila. With so many malls, bookstores, parks, and restaurants out there; there isn’t a shortage of leisure activities that you can enjoy. If you’re tired of ‘gramming the same old spots that you usually hang out in with your buddies, a change of scene could be a refreshing move for you to take.
Why not just walk around for a change? You see, a stroll can take you to places you’ve never been – discovering streets you might have overlooked, hole-in-the-wall cafes that serve the best coffee in town, or bits and pieces of our heritage that’s been blatantly displayed yet people have failed to notice. Just take a few hours of your time to give yourself a tour. To make it more educational, we suggest you take this tour called ManiLakad that takes you to history-laden spots in Manila with cool trivia to boot.
One weekend, we were able to check out the Ermita and Malate areas, and we’re sharing some of the spots we’ve visited for a quick guide!
First up, Padre Faura Street! Of course, we all know this: UP Manila, Supreme Court, DOJ, PGH and of course, Robinsons Ermita!
There is history in every landmark, this area being the original University belt.
The Philam Life Theater used to be a really famous spot for catching theater arts performances.
Along UN Ave., you’ll pass by art galleries where you can view awesome paintings by local artists. One of these is Hiraya Gallery.
There are old pension houses that stand along Engracia St. with beautifully aged home designs (with Machucca tiles flooring!) that will remind you of your lola‘s home back in the province.
One food stop you mustn’t miss: Hizon’s Cakes and Pastries! You can sit down for a quite meal or pack their bestselling ensaymada in your bag as you continue your walk.
Bookworms, take delight! You’ll find your perfect spot here in Solidaridad bookstore. They’re housing lots of titles (some of them exclusive only here!!!), so go ahead and browse through historical and political books, fiction and non-fiction, travel (yes, they have guidebooks here!) and a whole lot more.
Here’s their display before you enter this book heaven! More reads inside. 🙂
Read on for more!
