The Philippines has recently gained itself a bad estimation due to all the political on-goings in the country. Clashes between rebel forces and the government, rumors of coup, status of emergency declarations, and even suspected links to the al Quaeda – no wonder some Western governments cannot help but release travel advisories against visiting this country.

Before you decide against a trip to Manila, you should assume in mind that the newspapers do not always provide an accurate picture of a situation. Sensationalism is their business, and sensationalized news is what you usually get.

Manila is located in the northern island of Luzon. The terrorist stronghold is located in the southernmost part of the Philippines – two big islands away – in Mindanao. The status of emergency was indeed declared but civilians basically continued to live their normal lives even as it was in place.

It is very easy to get around in Manila. The jeepney is the Philippines’ most ordinary form of transportation. It is actually based on the US Army jeep but is longer and fits about 16-20 people. You crapper also get on buses, the Metro Rail Transit, and hire cabs. Language is not a major problem as even the people on the streets crapper speak rudimentary English.

Manila is well-known for its nightlife. You crapper find bars open until 3 or 4 in the morning. The Makati and Malate areas are where you crapper find the hottest clubs and bars. Makati is a bit more expensive but safer as well.

Malls abound in the metro. You crapper find anything from specializer brands to nondescript but very cheap brands. Food is not a problem. Filipino food, American fast food, Japanese food – you crapper find anything there.

Filipinos are very hospitable by nature. You module be surprised at how friendly and helpful most of them are. It’s actually a different form of racism – they seem to treat Caucasians in a much better way.

Cost of living and traveling is so much lower than in western countries. So if you hit dollars or euros, chances are you module hit no problems availing services that meet your standards. Hotels and another accommodations are abundant and easy to find.

If it is the beach you want, then you crapper opt to go out of the city. The nearest beach crapper be reached in about 4 hours from the city. You crapper take a plane to another parts of the country if you want to see more.

Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, Manila is a beatific place to visit. It module be a rich cultural experience for you.