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Come visit Metropolitan Manila, the
National Capital Region (NCR) or simply Manila is the
metropolitan region encompassing the City of Manila and its
surrounding areas in the Philippines. It is composed of 16
cities - namely Manila proper, Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati,
Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Pasay,
Pasig, Parañaque, Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuel
and the municipality of Pateros. Metro Manila the political,
economic, social, educational, cultural and recreational hub
of this vast archipelago of 7,107 islands. Nowhere else in
the country can the visitor acquire a greater dose of local
color, a better understanding of the country's multifaceted
culture, or as many glimpses of its contrasts as in this
pulsating, vibrant metropolis. The streets are alive with
colorful jeepneys, rumbling buses and sleek automobiles. In
old sections of Manila like Intramuros (the old walled city)
and Chinatown, clip-clopping horse-drawn carriages pick
their way through traffic. Glass and concrete towers rise
side-by-side with Spanish colonial houses and neo-classical
government buildings. Dragon arches, gold-domed mosques and
elaborately-styled mansions define the enclaves of the
Chinese, the Moslems, the rich and famous. Outside the
civilized bustle of air-conditioned shopping centers,
sidewalk vendors haggle and press with the sweaty, hurrying
crowds. The glare and gaiety of marketplaces are mere steps
away from the peaceful greenery of parks and the hushed
silences of churches. Premier gateway to the many islands
and tourist destinations north and south of the Philippines,
Metro Manila has its own share of attractions to suit every
interest. Here, churches, museums and theatres vie for the
attentions of history and culture buffs. Malls, boutiques,
flea markets and antique shops offer endless surprises for
shoppers and souvenir-hunters. Posh restaurants and sidewalk
eateries entice gastronomic adventurers. Snazzy discos and
cozy bars entertain the night owl. Golfing greens, country
clubs and accessible out-of-town resorts provide recreation
and relaxation for all. And everywhere, a friendly, festive
people who smile readily, adore music and love to welcome
visitors with their world-famous brand of hospitality, it is
the total urban area that is composed of different cities
and the surrounding urban fringe. Manila offers visitors
friendly people, vibrant nightlife and historic sights.
Manila is close to scenic countryside, providing a cheap and
attractive holiday destination. One thing no visitor should
miss is a famous Manila Bay sunset: a light show created out
of the high humidity conditions coupled with the effects of
cloud over the city's harbour. This remarkable sight allows
a short respite from the more unpleasant aspects of the
sprawling city. View the sunset from Rizal Park, Roxas
Boulevard or from a cruise boat that plies around Manila
Bay. Many who travel to Manila find it the most exciting
city in Asia, offering a blend of cultures, a good supply of
historic sights and places to see, and unforgettable
experiences. Another plus for a holiday in Manila is that
the city is as lively at night as it is during the day... |
