Cuisine in Manila

If you’re visiting the Philippines, it is recommended that you explore the varied cuisines of its’ different regions. But if you’re particularly in the northern part of Philippines in Luzon, try the cuisine of the Ilocos region where the most popular dish is a plate of mixed vegetables that are flavored with the addition of bagoong or fermented fish instead of salt. This Ilocano delicacy is famously called pinakbet.

The Kapampangan cuisine is quite popular in central Luzon, particularly the Sisig dish. It is cooked using various portions of the liver and head of a pig. It is put in vinegar before being seasoned with calamansi and chili.

A very popular Manila dish is the fresh variety of lumpia which is a little similar to a spring roll with some elements of a burrito. It is huge and packed with meat, peanuts, lettuce and a bit of coconut. You get the option of a sweet sauce or vinegar on the side!

Explore Manila

Even though you can find plenty of interesting things to do in Manila, absolutely nothing beats the experience of being inside the same waters which are home to the whale sharks. The locals call these beautiful creatures ‘Butanding’ and they can be found in the Donsol Bay from November till June. Snorkeling is the maximum you could do as scuba diving is prohibited in this area. The whale sharks are so huge, there is no way you could miss them!

Apart from this, you could visit some of the most spectacular sights in Northern Luzon, particularly in Banaue. These include the Banana Rice Terraces, constructed by the people of Ifugao using simple primitive tools. They are nearly 2,000 years old!

The entry of the beautiful Pasig River is where you will find the primary tourist attraction of Manila-Fort Santiago. It is surrounded by a delicate lily pond as well as the Intramuros Visitors Center. Another must visit in Manila is the National Museum of the Filipino People which is built inside a stunning neoclassical building. This brilliant museum is home to a huge collection which includes Tabon Man’s skullcap. He was the first known inhabitant of the Philippines.