Manila, Philippines

An evocative blend of history & culture

Manila was the jewel of the Spanish empire in the Pacific, and a colony of the US after the Spanish-American War. Intramuros, the remnants of the walled settlement the Spanish founded in 1571, is today an evocative mix of ruins and churches, and contains the city’s most interesting museums. The famous Manila Hotel is a legacy of the American era, and was the residence of General MacArthur prior to the WWII.

Be sure to take a ride in the unofficial symbol of the city, the Jeepney, originally created by enterprising Filipinos out of surplus Jeeps the US left behind. Decorated in bright colors with shiny hood ornaments, it is public transportation with attitude.