Descubre Manila en Jeepney

Información

Colorful jeepneys snake through Metro Manila’s major roads and by-ways, making them an essential part of contemporary Philippine culture. These flamboyantly painted public transportation vehicles are progenies of US Army-issued surplus jeeps from World War II which were reconstructed by ingenious Filipinos into passenger vehicles. Enjoy an extraordinary experience that is uniquely Filipino by riding in an air-conditioned jeepney whilst taking in the sights of Manila.

Travel through the financial district of Makati, passing down Ayala Avenue where gleaming skyscrapers stand cheek by jowl with less than distinguished-looking structures. As we approach the bustling metropolis of Manila, drive past the Cultural Center of the Philippines and on to Roxas Boulevard. Stop at Rizal Park, named after the country’s nationalist hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Then proceed to the Walled City of Intramuros which was the nucleus of the old Spanish town. Venture into Fort Santiago in its strategic location overlooking the Pasig River and Manila Bay and stroll along its ramparts where once stood the bamboo-palisaded stockade of its chieftain, Rajah Sulayman. Continue on to San Agustin Church, the only church built within Intramuros that has survived the collective onslaught of numerous calamities including fire and war. Beside the church is a museum that houses a collection of manuscripts, rare books, and religious arts and artifacts.

Not far from San Agustin Church is Casa Manila, a reproduction of a 19th century house equipped with oriental and European decor, as well as Philippine antique furniture. Crossing the Pasig River, we move on to the Chinese Cemetery, a virtual “town for the dead” complete with streets and houses. Be awed by its ostentatious mausoleums, some of which are two-story high, equipped with air-conditioning units, kitchens, furniture, stained-glass windows, running water and electricity. Winding our way through traffic, end up in a small side street in La Loma, Quezon City, where rows of native food stalls selling lechon line up the street. Here pig sucklings of every size and shape can be observed roasting in charcoal pits - a mouth-watering feast for the hearty gourmand and every cardiologist’s worst nightmare. End the tour with a drive by the narrow, flower-bedecked street of Dimasalang and the busy highway along Quiapo which houses the Shrine of the Black Nazarene, a 17th century miraculous life-size statue of Christ bearing the cross.

Meeting/pick-up point: Pick up from hotel.
Duration: Four hours.
Start/opening time: At 9am.
Languages: English and Japanese.