The City of Manila was adjudged as one of the 53 best cities in the world, landing on the 34th spot, according to the data of the Time Out Index 2022.
Despite the chaos caused by overpopulation and its irritating traffic traffic jams, Time Out said Manila boasts of rich art and culture. “The legacy of Chinese, Spanish, and American influences makes Manila an underrated hub for art and culture, with unique customs and cuisine to boot,” Time Out’s description of Manila reads.
Among Manila’s “must-see and visit” places are Intramuros, also known as the Walled City, with its cobblestoned streets, towering churches, and colonial-style villas that make visitors feel and appreciate its European-like atmosphere.
The San Agustin church and museum, also found in Intramuros, is one of the most important religious sites in the country with its adjoined museum that has impressive halls, decorative ceilings, courtyard gardens, and a treasure trove of ornate religious objects and paintings.
A visit to the historic Fort Santiago, built in the 14th century by the Spanish “conquistadors” and occupied by British, American and Japanese military forces at different times, strongly focused on the country’s national hero Jose Rizal, who was incarcerated there before he was executed.
Other must-see places in the city are the Manila Ocean Park, the Baywalk, and the dolomite beach. Time Out noted that the city’s strong vaccination drive has helped Manila stay afloat amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Manila was voted the third most resilient city in this year’s survey, and not a single respondent described the city as rude. It was instead admired by many for the welcoming and infectious smiles of its people,” Time Out noted.
“One hundred percent of the suevey respondents didn’t describe Mania’s foks as rude, making it the least rude city in this year’s index. Sixty percent said the city is resilient, while 78% raved about its nightlife and party scene,” Time Out added.
With the economy slowly opening up in most countries, Time Out suggests a quick visit to Manila before heading out to the country’s other famous tourist destinations.
Time Out’s top 10 best cities are Edinburgh in Scotland, Chicago in the US, Medellin in Colombia, Glasgow also in Scotland, Amsterdam in the Netherlands, Prague in the Czech Republic, Marrakech in Morocco, Berlin in Germany, Montreal in Canada, and Copenhagen in Denmark.