My dear readers, oh how I’ve missed writing to you! It’s been a long month since I’ve last updated my blog, and judging from my social media, you can tell it’s because I finally returned back to my motherland, the Philippines, last month.
To give you insight in my feelings about the Philippines, I believe that it is my tropical safe haven from the rest of the world. My best and most wonderful memories came from my childhood visits in the Philippines. Now that I’m not an amateur blogger anymore, I’m so happy to share this beautiful country with you since I last visited 3 years ago.
With every visit, I have seen the massive improvements made in the country. This time around, I was able to fully explore and see spots in Manila that would be perfect for photographing and sharing on social media! While I love sharing spots that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world, I believe that you will also enjoy the culture and local artwork of the country as well.
Instagram Worthy Spots in Manila
Intramuros:
Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Intramuros is the most iconic historic site in Manila! While it may be considered “touristy” for people to visit, you will find yourself having chills over the place. I find that the area is structured like an outdoor park when you enter inside Fort Santiago. However, “Intramuros,” also referred to as the “Walled City,” is pleasant to stroll around for a creative landmark shot. You can also learn about the significance of Intramuros and the colonial lifestyle during the Spanish Empire. When I was visiting, I ended up getting free admission because it was National Women’s Day (for those who are female and are traveling during the month of March).
“Intramuros,” also referred to as the “Walled City,” is pleasant to stroll around for a creative landmark shot.
Okada Manila:
New Seaside Dr, Parañaque, 1701 Metro Manila, Philippines
Prefer to see something more luxurious? Then, check out the latest resort, Okada Manila! Although there is no admission required to enter inside, you will quickly notice the high security of the place when you go through bag check and metal detectors. The grandness of the place will hit you the moment you enter inside! The overall color scheme of the resort is pink, but each room has a different theme and design. Some rooms have garden/floral decor while others have classy over-the-top chandeliers with metallic hand-painted walls. As I was walking around the walkways, I noticed the court building surrounded with cherry blossom trees! It was a moment I knew I had to capture! Depending on the season, you will always find new art installations displayed in Okada Manila. Best part? You can also have overnight stays, too!
Ayala Triangle Gardens:
Paseo De Roxas St Cor Makati Ave, Cor Ayala Ave, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines
Even in the most crowded areas of the Makati Central Business District, you can still find a tranquil spot at the Ayala Triangle Gardens. This park is located in between Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue and Paseo de Roxas. While Ayala Triangle Garden’s design is inspired by London’s Hyde Park, you can discover so many art installations created by local Filipino artists. My personal favorite one is the art installation above, which symbolizes peace and unity. After taking a few photos here, I was able to rest a bit and enjoy the views before heading back to my hotel.
Mall of Asia:
Seaside Blvd, 123, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines
What if you want to kill 2 birds with one stone? Mall of Asia, one of the biggest malls in the country, has a little but of everything for everyone. Malls are such a big part of the Philippine’s culture, mainly because the design and the businesses inside the malls make it convenient for people to visit every day for a variety of errands, such as getting groceries, having a hair salon, getting a dentist check-up, watching a movie, etc. The Mall of Asia also has a carnival park that faces the Seaside Blvd area, which looks very romantic during the sunset hours! You can also find pretty murals and retro cafes around the outdoor floors as well.
Manila Bay:
Roxas Blvd, Manila, Luzon, Philippines
If you want a sunset photo with an ocean backdrop, look no further than Manila Bay. As I’m writing this post, Manila Bay is currently under clean-up renovation, so 2019 may not be the best time to visit. However, the walk area by Manila Bay is truly beautiful during the morning and evening time since there’s no blockage of the sun. I took a spontaneous stroll by Manila Bay during the morning, and the only regret I had from that experience is not having my camera with me to take photos of the colored sky!
Got a favorite location based on my picks? Let me know in the comments below! If you’re familiar with Manila, feel free to share any other Instagram worthy spots you’d recommend! As always, please follow my other social media channels for more of my adventures. Until next time!
Looks like a beautiful place to visit! You take some really beautiful photos.
I totally agree, they are Instagram worthy. Especially Okada, its so colorful and Spring like with the light blue on the building and the pink flowers.
These pics are so beautiful! I’d love to visit Manila soon 🙂
Those are some really Instagram worthy places to visit! All beautiful pictures, but I have to say that Okada Manila and Intramuros are my favorite pictures of yours.