The capital city of the Philippines, Manila, known as “Maynila” to Filipinos, is home to more than 14 million people. Situated on the shore of Manila Bay on the island of Luzon, the city is one of 17 that make up the metropolitan area known as Metro Manila, or the National Capital Region.
While World War II destroyed much of the older portions of the city, the remains of the Spanish ruling class from the 16th century can still be viewed in Intramuros, the walled city near the mouth of the Pasig River.
If ridiculousness is more your style, visit the Coconut Palace. Erected on the orders of Imelda Marcos, she of the extensive shoe collection and wife of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, the palace was meant for Pope John Paul II, but when he refused to stay there during his visit, citing the many millions spent could have gone to more worthy causes, Brooke Shields and George Hamilton became the guests of honor at the grand opening. Tour guides will provide details of their stay.
Other attractions in Manila include the National Museum, housing most of the country’s historic and cultural works; Manila Ocean Park, with an Oceanarium and open water marine habitat; and Corregidor Island, about 30 miles west of the city, also known as “The Rock,” site of Allied headquarters during the Battle of the Philippines, surrendered to the Japanese after the Battle of Corregidor and regained three years later. Today, the island and the remains of military installations stand as a memorial to Filipino and American soldiers who fought and died there.
