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| Manila
Travel Information |
The Philippines is a vast archipelago consisting of 7,1017 islands. Manila is the economic, political, social, educational, recreational and cultural center of the Philippines. It is here where visitors can experience the country’s multifaceted culture in the form of a ever-evolving metropolis. Colorful jeepneys, the traditional mode of Philippine transportation, are everywhere on the streets. History is evident through the old sections of Manila, notably the old walled city Intramuros, where one can find historic Spanish colonial houses and cobblestone streets dating back to the 17th and 18th century. Horse-drawn carriages can be found here.
The modern face of Manila is also evident through the glass and concrete towers that stand together with the Spanish colonial houses and neo-classical government buildings. Picturesque churches, mosques and temples can be found throughout the city. Modern shopping centers, flea markets and antique shops are also numerous throughout Manila. Classy restaurants, sidewalk eateries, lively discos and relaxing bars all make the nightlife in Manila one of the most vibrant in all of Asia.
Manila is the country’s international gateway. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport lies seven kilometers from the city center, it services 26 major international airlines along with charter flights from Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan and other countries. It has adequate facilities including hotel and travel agency representatives, tourist information centers, duty-free shops, car rentals, banks, a medical clinic, chartered flight services and a baggage deposit area. Philippine Airlines is the official national airline, it connects Manila to 26 cities in 19 countries and provides daily service to and from 42 major destinations within the Philippines. Manila’s passenger ports are active for many local and international shipping transits. Cruise ships, chartered and private vessels, also make their way through Manila’s bay.
There are four modes of public transport in Metro Manila: 1.) Buses; 2.) Jeepneys; 3.) The Light Railway Transit (LRT-1) and Metro Railway Transit (MRT-3); and 4.) Taxis.
Buses travel regularly through all the major routes in Metro Manila except Roxas Boulevard. Air-conditioning buses cost PhP10.00 adding PhP2.00 for every succeeding kilometer. The regular bus’ minimum fare is PhP3.00, with an additional PhP1.00 for every succeeding kilometer. Just inform the bus conductor where you are going and he will tell you how much the fare costs. Keep your ticket receipt as proof of payment.
The Light Railway Transit (LRT-1) is a fully-elevated north-south route which runs along Rizal and Taft Avenues (15 km, 18 stations). The line runs on a concrete structure 7 meters above the street, it is designed to withstand earthquakes. The trains operate in 2-4 car units (one unit 29.3 meters long, 2.5 meters wide), all of which have roof ventilation.
The MRT-3 (METROSTAR) runs along Epifanio de los Santos Ave. (EDSA) and it extends all the way to North Avenue in Quezon City. The total length of the line is approximately 24 km. All MRT trains are air-conditioned.
Taxis cost PhP30.00 on the meter and PhP2.50 is added for every succeeding 200 meters to the final cost. Most taxis are air-conditioned. Taxis are always lined up at all major hotels and tourist centers and can be hailed on the street. When boarding a taxi, ensure that the driver turns on the meter. If the driver will try to make an excuse that the meter is broken, get out and just hail another taxi. Unless your taxi ride is very long or traffic is extremely congested, your fare shouldn’t exceed PhP100. Pay the driver at least 10% tip.
All the major car rental agencies have offices in Metro Manila, such as Budget, Hertz and AVIS, offering a selection of vehicles from jeeps to limousines. If you desire to drive on your own, you must have a valid international or foreign license. Travelling between islands can be done through airplane or ferry.
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