Experience Manila in a Layover!
Got a long layover in Manila, but no idea what to do? Don’t click that return to Google button because you are precisely on the right page to learn more about that! So, you decided to skip staying in Manila for a few days because you heard terrible things about it, but you are very curious what the Philippines’ capital has to offer? Maximize that layover! Check these things you should remember, see and do when you got a layover in Manila!
Things to Remember
Luggage Storage
For the convenience of comfortably going around Manila without carrying your heavy luggage/backpacks, you can go over to Luggage&More. Luggage&More can be found at the NAIA Terminal 3, and it operates 24/7 daily. Its facilities are covered by a 24-hour CCTV system to ensure all your bags and luggage’ safety and protection whether for short or long periods of time.Getting Around
There is a metered taxi lane at the airport that you can go to transport you to your desired destination. The flag down rate for taxis in the Philippines remains at P40, but the distance rate is now at P13.50 per kilometer, under the new fare scheme. Make sure your taxi is metered to avoid paying a sky-high fare. You can also use the app Grab for the convenience of getting around. There, you can already see the fare price that you will pay prior to loading the car.Be Vigilant
Like anywhere else in the world being attentive to your surroundings and valuables is always necessary. Being vigilant does not mean that the place is dangerous or what but it is a must do for every traveler. The Philippines has friendly, accommodating, very warm and always smiling people that you will love. See it for yourself.Places to Check Out
Mall of Asia
Metro Manila is a haven for shopping malls. Filipino families usually spend their weekends’ bonding inside malls. Mall of Asia is said to be one of the biggest malls in Asia. You can either shop, watch a movie, dine, go ice skating, enjoy resto-bars, go on rides like the MOA Eye which is a Ferris wheel overlooking the City, grab a bottle of local beers by the bay just outside the mall while enjoying a beautiful sunset!
Sunset by the bay, outside Mall of Asia.
- Resorts World Manila
- Greenbelt
- Glorietta Malls
Seaside Dampa
For seafood lovers like me, I would recommend Seaside Dampa located in Macapagal Boulevard in Pasay City. A little trivia, “Dampa” basically means “hut.” It is a Filipino word that means more of a nipa hut for exact terms. Usually, we use the term “Dampa” also to connote a row of restaurants that cook fresh seafood according to the customers’ preference.
Live Giant Lobsters

Seaside Dampa Macapagal Stall

Baked Clams

Buttered Garlic Crabs and Shrimp Sinigang (Soup)
Luneta Park
Understanding a place and its culture means learning about its history as well. Manila is full of the hustle and bustle, but it is also filled with worth knowing bits of history that would inspire you more to get to see the country. Luneta Park was built to honor the Philippines’ National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal. He is a doctor and a novelist who was shot by firing squad at this exact site on December 30, 1896, on charges of inciting local rebellion against the Spanish government. Rizal is one of the most important individuals who encouraged and helped the motherland gained its Independence.
Luneta Park with Friends
Intramuros: A City Within the Walls

Intramuros with Friends



Filipina Nomad
My name is Yvette, from the Philippines! I am a Film and TV Production Professional, a blogger and a solo traveler. Gypsy, free-spirited Filipina juggling my time with career, traveling, family and social life. My ultimate dream is to travel the world! And I’m starting it off by exploring my beloved country– Philippines, to promote its magnificent beauty, rich culture, awesome people to each and everyone through my contents.