Even though I have already moved to Norway, Philippines has always a huge place in my heart. That is why I never forget to  include Philippines in my travel plans. Two months ago I spent four weeks in the Philippines. Wherein the first week was spent in the metro, the second and third week at Liloan Southern Leyte and four days in the metro again before we head back to Norway. This year is my very first time to spend only four weeks in the Philippines. During the past years, I took at least  ten weeks there. But time changes and so as my plans. I have work and obligations to think about now.

Anyway, it is rainy season in the Philippines. So it was raining when we landed in Manila and then two days after that a typhoon came and that resulted to some changes in our plans. The original plan was to go to Tagaytay but due to the typhoon, we had to cancel it. It really sucks but the malls were opened the following day so it was not so bad after all and besides there are lots to see in Manila too.

Aside from the malls, we went to see the beautiful architectures and parks in Manila. Our first stop was Rizal Park but due to the damage made by the typhoon Glenda, they closed the park. So we moved on to the next stop which is Fort Santiago. Unfortunately it was also close. Some parts of Intramuros had to be cleaned up from fallen trees. However, the churches and museums were open so our Manila trip didn’t go to waste after all.

We’ve only visited the two of the most famous churches in Manila (we’ll make sure to visit all next timego!)

 St. Augustine church and museum. St. Augustine is the oldest church (400 years old) in the Philippines and is located in Intramuros, Manila.

 

 

 

Just a couple of blocks away is the Manila Cathedral Basilica. 

 

 

The best way to explore Manila is by car. It is safer and hassle free. We rented a van with a driver for a one day for 2000 pesos.