I arrived in the Philippines after exploring various countries in mainland Southeast Asia like Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Although I hadn’t initially planned to visit the Philippines, the glowing reviews from fellow travelers along the backpacker trail convinced me to spontaneously book a flight to Manila. However, my first impressions of Manila were not as enchanting as I had hoped. Manila turned out to be a bustling, congested, and somewhat chaotic city. Unlike the captivating hustle and bustle of cities like Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, where the streets are alive with scooters buzzing around, Manila felt more like a city stuck in traffic with modern but unexciting neighborhoods.
One thing that struck me was the abundance of cockroaches in the streets around my hostel, surpassing anything I had seen in Southeast Asia before. Additionally, the sight of armed guards with shotguns or rifles scattered throughout the city was a bit unsettling, as it’s not a common sight in Southeast Asia. Despite my initial discomfort, I eventually acclimated to the city, especially after exploring during the daytime.
My visit to Intramuros, a historic fortress area, left me underwhelmed, with its crumbling walls lacking the appeal I had anticipated. Even the popular "Mall of Asia" failed to impress me, resembling a typical American-style mall with modern stores, albeit situated along the bay.
Although Manila didn’t quite win me over, my overall love for the Philippines remained strong. The capital city might not have captured my heart, but I found solace in exploring other parts of the country. On subsequent visits to Manila, under different circumstances, I discovered hidden gems like local hangouts, diverse dining experiences, and vibrant neighborhoods that offered a more enjoyable experience.
While Manila may require a deeper dive to truly appreciate its charm, for a brief visit, I recommend using it as a layover before venturing out to explore the more captivating rural and island destinations the Philippines has to offer. It seems that Manila’s true beauty lies in its local spots and connections, making it a city worth exploring beyond its surface.
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