One of the oldest capital cities in Southeast Asia, Manila has been in the news since June of 1571 when a Spanish viceroy set up shop in the fortified, walled area still known as Intramuros (“inside the walls”). Since that time, Manila and its surrounding metro area has been the seat of government, first for a succession of occupying powers and ultimately for the independent nation that emerged following World War II. While the actual city of Manila is but one of the entities that comprise Metro Manila, most visitors remain unaware of the geographic fine points and simply call it all Manila.

But even to the first-time visitor, some distinctions are readily apparent. Manila was established on the shores of Manila Bay and grew because of the sheltered anchorage the Bay provides. However, in the 1960s, the new area of Makati, just southeast of Manila, emerged as the financial and business center of the nation. And while Manila holds the charm of a colonial capital, Makati — a true “skyscraper city” — looks freshly unpacked and ready to go.

Nonetheless, both exhibit the mabuhay (warm welcome) of the Philippines.

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