Tips on Getting Cheaper Bookings
Since Metro Manila is a commercialized and progressive metropolis, it is easy to assume that the rates for hotels there are sky high. But it's also possible to find an affordable place to stay if you know where to look. For instance, hotels near tourist attractions or main roads tend to offer higher rates because of their advantageous location. So if you're on a strict budget, settle for hotels that are a bit out of the way but still accessible via public transport vehicles.
Even if you don't have a car, it's very easy to get around Metro Manila because of the various and affordable modes of transportation available. City buses ply the metro's thoroughfares daily, as do jeepneys. There is also a train system that connects various cities. Depending on your destination, you can ride the MRT, LRT-1, LRT-2, and the PNR. Meanwhile, for short distances, you can ride a tricycle. Of course, you can expect to pay more if you want to travel with added convenience. There are also taxis all over the metropolitan and ride-sharing services like Grab and Uber.
Another wise thing you can do to save more on your accommodations is to book months in advance prior to your visit. Before your trip, make sure to browse the rates for Metro Manila hotels on TravelBook.ph. There are numerous great deals for hotels in Manila in the website. Remember to sign up for a membership and subscribe to the newsletter in order to stay on top of the latest discounts and promos. TravelBook.ph also rewards you with points for every booking you make, which you can use to book hotels for your next trip. Do download as well the mobile app of TravelBook.ph for even lower prices on your chosen accommodation.
While there is no specific peak season for tourists in Metro Manila, staycations are popular during holidays, weekends, and Valentine’s Days. Be on the lookout for promos for these days in order to save more money.
Recommended Hotels in Manila with Cheap Rates
A budget Metro Manila trip is possible as affordable places to stay are available year-round. Pocket-friendly lodgings range from budget hotels and inns to hostels and dorms so you'll definitely have lots to choose from. Private rooms at hotels come as cheap as PHP 1,000.00, while shared accommodations go for at least PHP 600.00. For your trip, you might want to check out Chillout Guesthouse, Leez Inn Manila, Hotel 2016 Manila, and Go Hotels Otis Manila in the City of Manila and Lokal Hostel, Z Hostel, MNL Boutique Hostel, and VIP Suite Hotel Makati in the City of Makati.
These accommodations may be affordable, but most of them have convenient amenities like WiFi connections, parking spaces, and even in-house restaurants. Some of them even offer free breakfast.
Affordable Activities in Manila
There are plenty of things to do in Metro Manila that are either affordable or free of charge. Make sure to do a lot of research online or ask your hotel receptionist where you can try these activities.
Of Metro Manila's cities, Manila is the most popular among tourists since it is the country's capital. Visitors will find a lot of interesting sights like Intramuros, one of the most historic places in the country. On your trip there, make sure to check out Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, and Bahay Tsinoy to name a few. After your Intramuros tour, it's obligatory that you see the Rizal Monument at Luneta Park and the priceless artworks and artifacts at National Museum. Entrance to the museums are either free or have very minimal fees. End your day tour of Manila with a sunset stroll along Baywalk.
Another city that tourists love to visit in Metro Manila is Makati. The Philippines's business district, its skyline is dotted with skyscrapers and is constantly abuzz with excitement because of its many attractions. Most people assume that Makati is an expensive destination, but little do they know, there are also plenty of things to see and do that won’t even cost a thing. The Ayala Triangle Gardens is one of the most popular parks in the city. You’ll find fitness buffs jogging or families walking along the paths of this peaceful spot in the heart of Makati. Other parks to check out include Washington SyCip Park and Jaime C. Velasquez Park.
Quezon City is another popular city in the metro. Like Makati, its parks are also great places to spend the day if you're on a budget. Quezon City Memorial Circle is a favorite place for relaxation and recreation. You can ride a bike, see the Quezon Memorial Shrine, or play volleyball and badminton. Another great park is La Mesa Eco Park where you can bask in the nature surroundings while enjoying outdoor activities like swimming, biking, fishing, and even riding a zip-line.
Affordable Shopping in Manila
When it comes to affordable goods, Filipinos always turn to Divisoria. From clothes and accessories to toys and home decor, everything here is sold at pocket-friendly prices. If you're buying in bulk, you'll receive more discounts. And if you find the price of an item too steep for you, you can even haggle.
Another popular shopping district is Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan. This place also sells all kinds of goods under one roof, but it is mostly known for selling affordable gadgets. Greenhills is also the go-to place for people who want their broken electronics fixed like mobile phones and laptops.
Affordable Dining in Manila
Fancy a food trip? Then head to Binondo, Manila's Chinatown. It has various dining establishment that each serves authentic and affordable Chinese food like dimsum, dumplings, noodles, and even hopia. Some of these eateries and restaurants have even been in business for decades already so you're assured of the quality of the food they serve. On your food crawl in Binondo, make sure to check out New Po Heng Lumpia House, Sincerity Restaurant, Shanghai Fried Siopao, Cafe Mezzanine, Wai Ying Fastfood, Masuki Mami House, Lan Zhou La Mien, and Tasty Dumplings.
Food parks are also popular places to eat in Metro Manila and one of the pioneers is StrEat in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City. StrEat has a lot of great choices perfect for diners who want variety. Some of the popular joints here include The Soul Food Truck, The Lost Bread, Endless Summer Cafe, and Great Burger. Almost all of their specialties and bestselling items are priced at around PHP 100.00 or less.
