CRAZY DAY IN MANILA!! My FIRST Impressions of the Philippines! 🇵🇭

Summary

In this video, the traveler defies warnings about Manila's crime and traffic to explore the city's hidden gems. They marvel at the skyscrapers, parks, and American Cemetery, then visit Rizal Park, a tribute to a national hero. They enjoy local cuisine at Jollybee, explore the historic Spanish Quarter, and immerse in Manila's oldest Chinatown. The day ends at the SM Mall of Asia, touted as one of the world's largest malls, where they experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse food options.

Takeaways

• 🚫 **Avoiding Manila**: The traveler was advised to skip Manila due to high crime rates, bad traffic, and a perceived lack of attractions.
• 🌆 **First Impressions**: Upon arrival, they were pleasantly surprised by Manila's skyscrapers, natural parks, and beautiful weather.
• 🏢 **Modern Cityscape**: The city's modern and metropolitan vibe, with a mix of rugged rural and urban elements, was appreciated.
• 🌳 **Rizal Park**: Visited Rizal Park, a peaceful haven away from city chaos, and learned about Dr. Jose Rizal, a Filipino national hero.
• 🍔 **Jollibee Experience**: Tried the national fast-food chain, Jollibee, and filmed a separate video about their first impressions of the food.
• 🏰 **Spanish Influence**: Explored the old Spanish Town, known as Intramuros, with its unique architecture reflecting Spanish, Mexican, Chinese, and Filipino influences.
• ☕ **Local Coffee**: Enjoyed local coffee at a shop overlooking a Filipino wedding, noting the refreshing drink and the prevalence of singing talent among locals.
• 🥧 **Egg Tarts from Lord Stow's Bakery**: Found and enjoyed egg tarts from a bakery famous for its unique, not overly sweet desserts.
• 🌆 **Chinatown Exploration**: Visited Manila's Chinatown but found it mostly closed, except for the acquisition of Lord Stow's Bakery egg tarts.
• 🛍 **SM Mall of Asia**: Concluded the day at the SM Mall of Asia, one of the largest malls in Asia, with a focus on cleanliness and a wide variety of shopping and dining options.

Q & A

What was the initial advice given to the traveler about Manila?

The traveler was advised to avoid Manila due to its high crime rate, bad traffic, and the belief that it is unsafe, dirty, and has nothing to do.

Why did the traveler decide to visit Manila despite the warnings?

The traveler decided to visit Manila because they were intrigued by cities that are an assault on the senses, similar to their experiences in Naples and Bangkok.

What were the traveler's first impressions of Manila?

The traveler was impressed by the skyscrapers, natural parks, and the mix of modern and rural vibes in Manila, contrary to what they had been told.

What historical site did the traveler visit in Manila?

The traveler visited the American cemetery, which commemorates American soldiers who were heroes in World War II.

Which Filipino fast-food chain did the traveler try?

The traveler tried Jollibee, a popular Filipino fast-food chain, and made a video about their experience.

What is the significance of Rizal Park in Manila?

Rizal Park, formerly known as Lunetta Park, is a commemoration of Dr. Jose Rizal, a Filipino national hero who fought against Spanish colonialism.

What is the Old Spanish Town in Manila known for?

The Old Spanish Town, also known as Intramuros, is known for its thick stone walls, Spanish, Mexican, Chinese, and Filipino architectural influences, and as a filming location for TV and film.

What did the traveler think of the children they met in Manila?

The traveler found the children they met in Manila to be extremely friendly and polite, making them feel very welcome.

What is the Mall of Asia known for?

The Mall of Asia is known for being one of the largest malls in Asia, featuring a wide variety of shopping and dining options, and is known for its cleanliness and modern amenities.

What was the traveler's experience with the local food in Manila?

The traveler enjoyed trying local food like Jollibee and Lord Stow's Bakery's egg tarts, and they were impressed with the flavors and quality of the dishes.