When to Visit Manila? Avoid the flooded streets...
by jumpingnorman
Well, for me, you can visit anytime (I grew up there!)! But for non-Filipinos, remember that the rainy season in Manila lasts June to October - and when we mean the streets are flooded, they literally are. Unfortunately, even just a small tropical rain causes so much traffic! The water drainage system is not so good in this very old city...and once I had to brave the flooded waters --- carrying my wife in my arms (we were still in college). It was awful (but a bit romantic for my wife), not to mention the risk of getting the disease called "leptospirosis" if you walk on rat-infested flooded waters...
But then enough of that, I did not want to scare you out of my Motherland! Of course, Manila is exotic - what did you expect? Very exciting...And the true traveller will experience everything.
But the best time is still December to March with sunny coooler days, and lower humidity. As for April and May, be prepared for the HEAT!
Of course, the world is experiencing such weather changes now, so always check with the Weather Channel! This is just an overview....
Luneta Park, also Known as ' Rizal Park '
by kylian74
'Jose Rizal' the Philippine national hero is burried here with it's monument located at the center of these park.
These park has a childrens playground, japanese garden, chinese garden, planetarium, roller skating rink and the 'relief map of the Philippines in water'.
Rizal park or Luneta Park is also using for some Philippine events like big concerts, political and social gatherings of the country.
Facial Expressions!
by machomikemd
Filipinos often use their eyes, lips, and hands to convey a wide range of messages. Raised eyebrows and a smile indicate a silent "hello" or a "yes" in answer to a question. Fixed eye contact between men is considered an aggressive gesture (you can get stabbed or gunned down). The proper method to summon somebody is with a downward wave then shout "boss" .
Hanging Out With Friends Is A Great Day
by AKtravelers
In Manila, the most common leisure time activity seems to be to hang around outside with one's friends. Everywhere you go -- the Lunta, the Baywalk, Intromuros, Makaiti -- people are relaxed, socializing with their friends, maybe sharing a little food and drink. Shade trees are almost always surrounded by smiling, chatting people enjoying each other's company. After dark, the hanging out increases, as it starts to get somewhat comfortable to be outdoors.
Pili Nut Candy, Comparable to Macadamia Nut
by machomikemd
The Pili nut (Canarium ovatum), is one of 600 species in the family Burseraceae, is native to the Philippines and is abundant and wild in southern Luzon (bicol region), and in parts of Visayas and Mindanao. The most important product from pili is the kernel. When raw, it resembles the flavor of roasted pumpkin seed, and when roasted, its mild, nutty flavor and tender-crispy texture is superior to that of the almond. Pili kernel is also used in chocolate, ice cream, and baked goods. The largest buyers of pili nuts are in Hong Kong and Taiwan, the kernel is one of the major ingredients in one type of the famous Chinese festive desserts known as the "moon cake".
It is a famous "pasalubong"(souvenir) and is available locally as plain dried nut, as Ice Crea, as caramelized candy, as a nougat and my favorite, as a candy.