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<B>MANILA</B> is actually composed of 11 major cities. There is an actual Manila but it is one of the 11. However, we all tend to lump all cities under Manila to represent the most urban spot in the country. Besides, these cities flow into each other that before you realize it, you have crossed three cities in 30 minutes of driving.
The 11 cities are as follows: <FONT FACE="TIMES NEW ROMAN"><I>Caloocan, Las Pinas, Makati</I></FONT> (the main financial and business district --- this is also where I work), <FONT FACE="TIMES NEW ROMAN"><I>Mandaluyong</I></FONT> (which has become the mall district), <FONT FACE="TIMES NEW ROMAN"><I>Manila</I></FONT> (where many of the good bars and night places are), <FONT FACE="TIMES NEW ROMAN"><I>Marikina, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig</I></FONT> (where I live) and <FONT FACE="TIMES NEW ROMAN"><I>Quezon City</I></FONT>.
I will be posting stuff about these cities soon...
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Manila is very westernized. Things that are very "native" or Filipino can usually be found in special stores and museums. Starbucks is mushrooming. McDonald's and Burger King are everywhere, fighting it out with the local <A HREF="http://www.jollibee.com.ph"><FONT COLOR="RED">Jollibee</FONT></A>. The streets at this very moment are under transformation. The Metro Railway Transit is currently both under construction and operational. I think it will be our version of the subway.
We have developed a malling culture. Our malls are like mini-cities and when people go there, it's usually not just to shop, but to eat, watch a movie, play at the arcade, whatever --- including simply sitting on the mall benches and relax as if sitting in a park.
However, if you want a soul-enriching experience of the Philippines, I suggest that you go outside Manila. Check my <A HREF="http://www.virtualtourist.com/m/.16191/article/841/4/?s=656716191">travelogue</A> pages for updates because I plan to explore my own country as well and discover its own magic.
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<SMALL><I>For general info on Metro Manila popular spots, visit <A HREF="http://www.getasia.com.ph">getasia</A>.</I></SMALL>
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