Bright Lights, Big City

Manila, starting point for any Philippines trip is an adventure in itself.

Most adventure travelers enter Manila with the sole intention of leaving as soon as possible. Its traffic, drift and chaos are all very real- but can be avoided with care and attention. Given that most travel itineraries dictate that you will spend at least a little time here, keep in mind that you can use this time to find people and information to make your excursion more worthwhile, or to take advantage of some surprisingly good outdoors action in the environs: all around manila, about one to two hours away lies a wealth of adventure destinations that are easily accessible in a day trip.


The first rule to enjoying Manila is to use your common sense. It can be atough city for tourists, and there are people to be wary of, especially in the airport, shopping malls and major tourist areas. Think basics, like don't take rides or drinks from strangers and don't ride in unmarked taxis= and don't let the driver let anyone else into the vehicle.

The second rule to enjoying manila is, "do not be paranoid". Most Filipinos are friendl, hospitable and honest. Con artists are confined almost entirely to the tourists zones; people in normal social situations off the beaten track are no threat at all.