Visit Manila Philippines

A more offbeat attraction is Imelda Marcos’ infamous shoe collection at the Marikina Shoe Museum, where some 800 pairs of her shoes are displayed. Or check out the ultra-modern Ayala Museum, with four floors showcasing a superb collection of gleaming pre-Hispanic gold artefacts, quality art shows, and impressive dioramas detailing the country’s history.

Walking and cycling tours

A great way to get some locals insights is to join a Manila walking tour. Most well known is Walk This Way, run by local identity Carlos Celdran. These theatrical tours tell it like it is, mixing in history, comedy and a healthy dose of cynicism while exploring Intramuros. Another stalwart on Manila’s walking-tour scene is Ivan Man Dy, who runs Old Manila Walks (oldmanilawalks.com), known for his foodie tours of Chinatown – these are worth loosening your belt for. For something different, jump on a bamboo bike designed by local entrepreneur Bryan McClelland, who’ll take you to less visited parts of Intramuros with his Bambike tours.