Budget Travel Guide: How to Feel at Home with Manila and its Hotels

The Philippines is generally one of the most hospitable and friendly countries in Asia. With Manila being its capital and as an urban melting pot of different traditions and people, one cannot help but wonder if one is capable of feeling at home in this city given the differences of culture and character most especially for tourists or visitors. However, if people are given a chance to stay in a place where it seems strangely similar to their taste or their native land, then they will definitely feel at home.

To begin your journey to a new place, the first thing to consider would be finding a hotel to stay in Manila depending on the nature of your trip. Whether for business or leisure, there are surely a lot of good lodging options that will suit your requirements, budget/financial aspects and environment included. Below is a run-down of 3 major cities or places in Manila with an overview of what kind of hotels and lodges to expect.

Manila

With Manila Bay as a common view for most hotels in this area, it is a come-on for most tourists who are fond of seascape sights. But if you're into the old Espana, then the Intramuros area would be a perfect place for anyone who enjoys old Spanish architecture and ambience. It is considered as one of the most famous tourist spots in the area and so it influences most of the design and style of the hotels and lodges there. To feel at home in this part of the country, one should always remember that this is a place where history is treasured a lot. Surrounding the area are museums, parks, and schools that dates back to as early as 1600s which only proves that this city definitely gives homage to the country's rich Spanish background.

Another one of the most remembered sights in Manila would be its famous bay sunset, so never leave home without taking a glimpse of it; it will definitely complete your journey to this country's famous capital.

Makati

If you miss the urban lifestyle of the city, then Makati is a perfect place to visit. With the high-rise office buildings, it seems a city-dweller like you have never left home. High-rise buildings here spell out high lifestyle and so are the hotels in the area that range from three (3)-stars to five (5)-stars. Modern structures are not unusual in this part of Manila. It is bold and even futuristic, obviously displaying its fondness for progress. However, whichever hotel you choose, you can never feel left out in such a place most especially if you're looking at the Makati skyline from your hotel terrace, a common view if you want to experience how the future is going in this leading business district of Manila.

Ortigas

Not to be intimidated by Makati, Ortigas as another financial district in Manila has its own personality. Most dwellings found here are a fusion of hotels and condominiums, giving one the option to feel like a tourist or a resident. Malls surround your favorite hotels here, it can only mean that shopping is a way of life in this city. Spending your travel money on shopping items has never been this much fun since malls and department stores are practically located not far from each other. Thus, making shops more accessible if you're hit with a shopping bug. Ortigas is also a place where night life is part of the young urban class' life. Bars and restaurants are a common place in this location and it only means that people here knows how to appreciate good food and entertainment.

Final Word

Manila may be a strange place for most tourists, maybe because it is where you will find a strange mix of the old and the new. If you're the kind of person who is uneasy with the past while working your way to the future, then Manila would be a place hard to interpret. You may blame its sentimental attachment to its history but it's basically a place where you can switch on and off from past to present and even the future. Ah, whichever you feel most at home with.

Recommended Resources

Manila Hotels provides excellent reviews of the hotels and accommodation available in Manila, Philippines. Check out the best offers, and also the excellent reviews of each of the available hotels at this fantastic site.

If you are looking for a more affordable Manila Hotel to spend your nights, do checkout our fabulous recommendations at Budget Manila Hotels and Cheap Manila Hotels for more affordable accommodation.