Mind-Blowing Facts and Secrets about Manila That You Never Knew

The capital city of Philippines - Manila has stood the test of time as we all know. What was once a marshy land dotted with mangroves, saw the dawn of light when different communities came and made their settlement at the banks of the Pasig River. Since then, it was a 'no turning back' for the Pilipino gem.

Several tourists have claimed of how spectacular the city is. From historic moments and beaches to the surrounding islands, Manila offers much more grandeur than imagined that invites several flights to Manila. Under various shopping malls, prodigious structures and walls, Manila unparalleled secrets and facts are still obscured. After knowing what scars, secrets and surprises Manila has in store, you’ll surely fall for Manila over and over again. So, are you curious? Let's take you to Manila's Oldest Chinatown.

A Peek into World's Oldest Chinatown

Established in 1594 in the Binondo district, Manila's very own Chinatown is the oldest in the world; an important hub where several Chinese and Filipino settlers operate business. Thereafter, Chinatown has become a leading neighbourhood for lip-smacking food, merchandise and trade.

Secret Tunnels

Among the modernity of towering buildings, swanky shopping centres and iconic landmarks lies an interesting tunnel. This tunnel can be traced back to the World War II era. Being 4 meters below the streets, it is expanded enough for trucks to enter. Among other tunnels, Fort Bonifacio is 2.5 km long and 4.5 metres wide. It has 32 chambers and 2 exits towards Makati City. History tells these tunnels were built to transport food, supplies and medicines to the Philippine army.

See the 'First' of Everything

First movie theatre; first ice-cream store; first elevator; first cable car;  first American-style department store - it's all here in Manila's Escolta Street. Apart from the striking sights and buildings, the fond memories will take you to another era. Make sure you get a taste of the ice cream there. There's much more to discover and lots to appreciate. This will be an amazing trip on a budget. Grab a cheap flight to Manila, search up a low-cost stay option and make this holiday memorable.

A Coffin from the Sky

Get a bird's eye-view of Manila's City Hall and you'll be startled to see a coffin shaped building with a cross. Originally, the building was designed in the shape of a shield to represent Catholicism in the country.

The Name - Manila

We all love folk-tales, don't we? That's what the people of Manila love too. It is believed, the name Manila came from a beautiful flower that grew in the Intramuros walls, and it was called 'Nilad' by the natives. Once, legend says, a woman was unable to explain where these wonderful flowers came from, so she said, 'Sa mga may Nilad.' Gradually, this name got transformed into 'Sa Maynila' or ‘Manila.’

That's not all. Despite being one of the bewitching cities for sightseeing and culture, Manila tends to be overpopulated with hideous traffic jams. The dry season between November and April is the best time to visit Manila. The entire country of Philippines is accessible, including its spectacular islands. Temperatures are mostly high in March and April; hence, it's advisable to travel anytime between December to February.

Manila flights usually take 11 hours 30 minutes from the UK. For enjoying and exploring a broad perspective of a destination, one must be completely prepared to travel. With Crystal Travel, all your travel itinerary and worry is easily taken care of. The online facility allows customers to book cheap flights to Manila from London along with several other benefits, adding bliss to your journey.