Metro Manila – family friendly, hospitable, warm and welcoming – is the principal gateway of the Philippines to its major destinations throughout its archipelago of 7,107 islands. The region is made up of 14 cities and 3 municipalities, and it is bounded by the Manila Bay and the provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite and Laguna. It is considered as the heart and soul of the Philippines and the central nerve of all activities in the country.

Metro Manila combines different elements that define its character as a megacity with a huge appetite for fun. It is a blend of both ancient and modern edifices like skyscrapers and state-of-the art shopping malls, of concrete and greenery, of stark settings and pockets of beautiful scenery, all surrounded by the cacophony of sounds of people of varied tongues, cultures and of everything else moving around the cities. For families in search of fun things to do in the Philippines, Metro Manila has abundance of family friendly fun activities for kids as well as their parents. Here are a few things to do for families in Metro Manila.

Manila Ocean Park

The Manila Ocean Park is a magical treat for every kid. It’s a wonder world of water, light, unique treats and surprises that will take one’s breath away. A place where the best of both worlds, oversea and undersea, mingle in one spectacular site dubbed as an “Integrated Resort”. It features some of the exciting and newest water-themed park like the Oceanarium, Musical Fountain Show, Glass Bottom Boatride, Aquanaut Voyage, etc.

Baywalk at Manila Bay

Take your kid for a bay-walk and enjoy a whiff of sea breeze between the Manila Bay seawall and numerous al fresco restaurants. It is a strategic spot to view the world famous Manila Bay sunset and its vibrant colors that continue to be accentuated in the evening by the colorful streetlights all along.

Museo Pambata

Museo Pambata- the first hands-on interactive children’s museum in the Philippines is a must visit for kids. It is an exciting learning center with six theme areas namely: Kalikasan (Environment), Maynila Noon (Old Manila), Tuklas (Science), Paglaki Ko (Career Option), Katawan Ko (Body Works) and Bata sa Mundo (Children in the Global Village), a reading resource center and children’s playground. The museum is also a venue for programs and activities for the public especially for underserved children such as storytelling, puppet shows, workshops on visual arts, health etc.

Treat your taste buds with Chinese delights

There are countless Chinese fast-food chains and restaurants around Manila, but if you want to taste authentic Chinese food, go to Binondo – the world’s first Chinatown. There are a number of good places to get these savoury treats. Dong Bei Dumplings is most famous for its namesake dumpling. The pork dumplings contain a simple but delicious combination of meat, vegetables and chives. Its accompanying sauce adds a tangy flavor that complements them well. Ying Ying Tea House offers a wide selection of fresh and steaming hot dim sum with full of flavour— both vegetable dumplings and non-veg. Masuki is known for their selection of noodles.

Shop, bargain then sleep

Shopping and bargaining is more fun in Metro Manila. Malls like SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, and The Podium carry a wide range of local and international labels. Hotels are walking distance so you can easily check in when you get tired. You can also bargain your way through Manila’s favourite bargain shopping center, Greenhills in San Juan and come home with a set of gorgeous South Sea pearls. When you’re famished, just go to nearby Wilson Street for a food trip.

It’s more fun in the Philippines

Crescent-shaped beaches dusted with talcum powder-like sand; uninhabited tropical islands, lush impenetrable jungles bristling with unique wildlife, the thrusting soaring capital of Manila, historic cities, a diverse local cuisine and culture …the Philippines has all this and more. Go there and discover some of the 7,107 islands of this vibrant archipelago where English is widely spoken, the people are fun loving and life moves to a lilting beat.

Source : Bidyananda