MANILA 6th International Conference on Research in Civil & Architectural Engineering: RCAE-28

Introduction to Manila

Manila is the capital of the Philippines and forms part of Metro Manila, one of Southeast Asia's largest urban metropolitan areas. It is an important centre for tourism, business, shopping, education, entertainment, and cultural heritage. Visitors can experience historical Spanish colonial architecture, modern shopping centres, lively markets, Filipino cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. English is widely spoken, making communication relatively easy for international tourists.

Mandatory eTravel Registration

International visitors arriving in the Philippines must complete the official eTravel registration within 72 hours before arrival. Registration is free, and travellers should keep their confirmation QR code accessible on their phone. The only official website is etravel.gov.ph. Be cautious of fraudulent websites charging unnecessary registration fees.

Manila is served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), airport code MNL, with several passenger terminals. Tourists should confirm their airline's arrival terminal, particularly when arranging transfers or connecting flights. Immigration procedures may involve checking passports, accommodation details, onward tickets, and financial capacity. Allow sufficient time for immigration, luggage collection, and airport transportation, especially during busy periods.

Airport Transfers and Transportation

Grab is one of the most convenient transportation services for tourists in Manila, particularly for airport transfers and hotel journeys. Official airport transport providers and hotel transfers are other suitable options. Avoid accepting unsolicited rides and always verify the vehicle and driver details. Manila is known for heavy traffic congestion, so a relatively short journey can take considerably longer during peak hours.

The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP ). Tourists should carry some Philippine pesos for small restaurants, local transport, markets, and street vendors. International debit and credit cards are commonly accepted in major hotels, shopping centres, and established restaurants. Exchange money at licensed exchange offices or banks, check exchange rates and transaction charges, and use ATMs in secure locations. Avoid exchanging money with unidentified street dealers.

Local Transportation and Getting Around Manila

Tourists can travel around Manila using Grab, licensed taxis, buses, jeepneys, LRT trains, MRT trains, and motorcycle taxis. Grab is generally recommended for comfortable and convenient journeys, while LRT and MRT trains can help avoid road congestion. Jeepneys offer an inexpensive and traditional Filipino transportation experience, although routes may be confusing for first-time visitors. The rechargeable beep card can be used on LRT and MRT services.

Manila welcomes international visitors, but tourists should exercise caution, particularly in crowded markets, transport terminals, and unfamiliar neighbourhoods at night. Pickpocketing, taxi overcharging, ATM fraud, and tourist scams are potential concerns. Avoid displaying expensive jewellery or carrying large amounts of cash. Do not accept food, drinks, or unsolicited transport offers from strangers, and use reputable transportation providers. The September 2026 US travel advisory recommends increased caution in the Philippines.

Manila experiences a tropical climate with generally warm temperatures and high humidity. The dry season normally extends from December to May, while the rainy season runs from June to November. December to February is often more comfortable for sightseeing because of relatively cooler conditions. March to May can be particularly hot. Visitors travelling between June and November should prepare for heavy rainfall, flooding, and possible typhoon-related disruptions.

Popular accommodation areas include Ermita, Malate, Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), and Pasay. Ermita and Malate are convenient for tourists interested in historical attractions and Manila Bay, while Makati and BGC offer modern hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Pasay is convenient for airport access and large shopping centres. Bayview Park Hotel Manila, situated on Roxas Boulevard in Ermita, is a practical choice for exploring central Manila and nearby tourist attractions.

Tourist Attractions and Cultural Experiences

Manila offers a mixture of historical, cultural, recreational, and modern attractions. Intramuros, the historic walled city, provides insights into Spanish colonial history, while Rizal Park is an important national landmark. Tourists can also experience museums, churches, waterfront views, local markets, and large shopping centres. Guided historical tours are useful for visitors who want to understand Philippine culture, colonial history, and national heritage.

Food, Restaurants and Drinking Water

Filipino cuisine includes popular dishes such as adobo, sinigang, pancit, lechon, lumpia, and halo-halo. Manila offers everything from affordable local eateries to international restaurants and fine dining. Tourists should choose clean, reputable food establishments, particularly when trying street food. Drink bottled or properly filtered water rather than untreated tap water, and exercise appropriate food hygiene precautions. Vegetarian and international food options are available, especially in major commercial districts.

Mobile Internet, SIM Cards and Communication

The major mobile network providers include Globe and Smart. Visitors can purchase prepaid SIM cards or eligible eSIM packages for internet access, communication, navigation, and booking transportation. Local SIM cards must be registered, and foreign tourists may need their passports, accommodation details, and return or onward tickets. Tourist SIM registrations are generally subject to a 30-day validity rule. Hotel Wi-Fi is widely available, but having mobile data is particularly useful for Grab and Google Maps.

Filipino and English are the official languages of the Philippines, while Tagalog is commonly spoken in Manila. English is used extensively in hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, and tourist services. Filipinos are generally known for their hospitality and polite social interactions. Visitors should respect local traditions, religious customs, and dress expectations when visiting churches. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and hospitality services, although some establishments already include a service charge.

Shopping, Markets and Entertainment

Manila is an important shopping destination, offering traditional markets, modern shopping centres, department stores, and entertainment venues. Tourists can purchase clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs, electronics, and local products. Prices in shopping malls are generally fixed, whereas bargaining may be possible in traditional markets. Check product authenticity and warranty conditions before buying expensive electronics or branded merchandise. Modern commercial districts also offer cinemas, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

 

The participants may choose a Hotel of their own choice and budget from popular booking sites, such as:

• www.expedia.com
• www.booking.com
• www.agoda.com
• www.airbnb.com

 Hotels near the conference venue:

1. Red Planet Manila Bay

• Category: Budget hotel

• Address: Arquiza St. Corner, 0930 Alhambra St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 300–500 metres

• Walking time: 5–8 minutes

A modern, affordable hotel with Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms and convenient access to the US Embassy, Manila Bay and Rizal Park. It is one of the better options for visitors prioritizing proximity and value.

2. Rosas Garden Hotel

• Category: Budget hotel

• Address: 1140 Del Pilar St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 300–500 metres

• Walking time: 5–8 minutes

A relatively simple hotel offering economical accommodation in Ermita. Suitable for budget-conscious tourists who need to attend activities or meetings around Bayview Park Hotel.

3. The Luneta Hotel Manila

• Category: Heritage boutique hotel

• Address: 414 Kalaw Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1045 Metro Manila, 414 Kalaw Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 400–600 metres

• Walking time: 6–10 minutes

A distinctive heritage-style hotel near Rizal Park, featuring historic architecture and a more traditional atmosphere. Suitable for visitors who prefer character and history over a conventional modern hotel.

4. City Garden Suites Manila

• Category: Mid-range hotel

• Address: 1158 A. Mabini St, Ermita, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 500–700 metres

• Walking time: 7–12 minutes

A practical choice for tourists, business visitors and families. It offers different room categories, dining facilities and convenient access to local restaurants and shopping areas.

5. Rizal Park Hotel

• Category: Upscale heritage hotel

• Address: South Road Drive, Kalaw Ave, Ext, Manila, 1000, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 600–900 metres

• Walking time: 9–15 minutes

An attractive heritage hotel housed in the historic Manila Army and Navy Club building. It features elegant interiors, a rooftop swimming pool, dining facilities and views towards Manila Bay and Rizal Park.

6. Casa Bocobo Hotel

• Category: Budget to mid-range hotel

• Address: Bocobo St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 600–900 metres

• Walking time: 9–15 minutes

A straightforward and economical accommodation option on Bocobo Street. Appropriate for short tourist stays and visitors looking for easy access to central Manila.

Additional Hotels Within Approximately 2 km

7. Manila Lotus Hotel

• Star rating: 3-star hotel

• Address: 1227 A. Mabini St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 700–900 metres

An affordable hotel with dining facilities, an exercise room and convenient access to Robinsons Place Manila. Suitable for short visits and tourists on a moderate budget.

8. Hotel H2O

• Category: Upscale themed hotel

• Address: Manila Ocean Park, Behind the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 1–1.5 km

A distinctive hotel within Manila Ocean Park, offering selected rooms with aquarium walls and others with views over Manila Bay. Particularly suitable for families and leisure tourists.

9. Diamond Hotel Philippines

• Star rating: 5-star hotel

• Address: Roxas Boulevard, Corner Dr. J. Quintos Street, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

• Approximate distance: 1.5–2 km

A luxury hotel on Roxas Boulevard, featuring upscale dining, spacious accommodation, event facilities and Manila Bay views. A good choice for business visitors and tourists seeking premium accommodation.