The Philippine motto in Tagalog is Mahal ang Pilipinas, and it doesn’t take long for travelers to acquiesce. Reasons to “Love the Philippines” include its wide range of experiences, cultures, cuisines, customs, artistry and wildlife. Considered one of the most densely populated city centers in the world, Manila, the capital, remains central to this popular destination. Created by the colonial Spanish government in the 16th century and boasting skyscrapers, trendy restaurants and pulsing nightlife, Manila showcases the old and the new.

Visitors can journey to the past in the historic walled city of Intramuros. Make San Augustin Church your first stop to learn about its astounding history, a symbol of Philippine survival. This Roman Catholic church, completed in 1607, endured damage from fires, earthquakes and wars. Currently, visitors can peruse San Augustin Museum or marvel at the majesty of the church, except during masses.

Halo-halo ice cream © Voyageviewmedia | Dreamstime.com

Fort Santiago also endured the rigors of history and stands now as a memorial to the victims of World War II. Built by the Spaniards in 1571, this fort served as a strategic location during battles, a headquarters during occupations, and is now a shrine.

Step back in time while wandering through Casa Manila, a living museum displaying the lifestyle of a wealthy Filipino family
during the Spanish colonial period. Décor and furnishings sourced from China and Europe evoke styles of those cultures in the structure, paintings, gilded furniture and ceramics.

Step out of the past and start with Filipino street food, such as kwek-kwek (batter-fried quail eggs served with vinegar or onions and chili flakes) or the popular adobo chicken dish. Indulge in banana slices fried in brown caramelized sugar, or halo-halo, the national dessert, serving up a smorgasbord of tastes and culinary diversity. Alternately, in case the street food did not fill you up, seven-story Robinsons Place Mall, covering 25,000 square feet of commercial space, offers a huge food court. A stay at the luxurious The Peninsula Manila or a wellness retreat at The Farm at San Benito prove ideal spots to relax after enjoying Manila’s old and new experiences.