Book a trip from Chicago to Manila with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD807

Manila, known for its stunning bayside views, is a vibrant city that seamlessly combines Spanish colonial history, intriguing art galleries, and verdant urban parks.

As you embark on your journey, delve into the rich history of Manila by visiting its numerous historical attractions, such as the iconic Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and Manila Cathedral. These sites offer a captivating glimpse into the city's past. Continue your exploration by visiting the walled city of Intramuros, established in 1571 as a stronghold for Spanish governance. This expansive 64-hectare stone fortress once protected a variety of structures, including churches, monasteries, residences, and plazas.

Manila's art scene is alive with a plethora of museums, boutique galleries, and warehouse spaces dedicated to showcasing remarkable masterpieces. One noteworthy destination is Manila Contemporary, the city's only international art museum, known for its diverse range of exhibitions that provide insight into the vibrant local art scene and support the works of Filipino artists. We also suggest visiting Silverlens and 1335 Mabini, well-known among the city's growing artscape.

Be sure to witness the architectural splendors of Manila by visiting the famed Coconut Palace. This grand edifice, commissioned by former First Lady Imelda Marcos to impress Pope John Paul II during his visit to the Philippines, stands as a testament to lavishness and visionary design with its staggering cost of $37 million. The palace's unique allure comes from its predominant use of coconut shells in construction, making it one of the city's most remarkable architectural gems.

If you’re looking to explore outside the city, look no further than Rizal Park, a peaceful oasis named after the national hero José Rizal. This park is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering picturesque picnic areas and an open-air concert hall. You can also enjoy delicious food at charming restaurants and admire enchanting fountains, making this park an idyllic spot for rest and relaxation.

For an adventurous day trip, make your way to the magnificent Minalungao National Park, located just a two-hour taxi or private car ride away. This natural paradise boasts pristine river streams with crystal clear waters, breathtaking karst peaks that will leave you in awe, and intriguing cave systems, all surrounded by lush forests. While there, take a refreshing dip in the river or try exhilarating cliff diving from the massive boulders. Don't miss the chance to relax and enjoy a peaceful picnic at the charming wooden cottages, offering a scenic backdrop for your day trip.

Cathay Pacific makes it easy to find the best hotels for your stay. In Manila, consider booking a luxurious stay at the renowned Shangri-La at The Fort. This 61-story hotel, located in the heart of the city, offers unmatched sophistication and serves as a vibrant entertainment hub with a range of amenities and programming for all types of travelers. If you prefer a touch of nostalgia, The Henry Hotel is a great choice as it was transformed from a collection of postwar buildings dating back to the 1950s. Conveniently located just a few blocks from bustling Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), one of the city's main thoroughfares, this hotel offers easy access to many of Manila's most famous areas.

Manila's dining scene offers a delightful mixture of flavors and cuisines that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. For a taste of Filipino comfort food, head to Aristocrat, a national chain that has been serving up classics since 1936 and has gained a loyal following for their succulent chicken barbecue with java rice and java sauce. For an authentic culinary experience, try Sarsa, a local chain known for their mastery of traditional dishes like 'milkfish sinigang' (a tangy soup with tamarind broth) and 'palabok' (rice noodles with a delicious golden sauce). Don't miss out on local delicacies like Asado pork and 'kare-kare' (oxtail stew with peanut sauce), and top off your meal with a slice of 'buko pie' (custard pie with condensed milk).

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Manila.

• Currency: Philippine Peso (₱, PHP). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V, Types A, B, and C
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Languages: Filipino and English