Manila Philippines Cruise Port and Exploring the City

In this video, I’m sharing an overview of our cruise port stop in Manila and taking you along on our unforgettable shore excursion, the Kalesa Ride Experience, although the Kalesa itself was not something I really want to remember! We stepped back in time as we rode by Intramuros, the historic walled city built during the Spanish colonial period. Our horse-drawn kalesa carried us through cobblestone streets lined with stunning architecture — from centuries-old buildings to more modern structures — giving us a fascinating look at the layers of Manila’s history. Along the way, we passed several universities and visited the breathtaking San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. The ride itself was an adventure! We wove through busy city traffic filled with colorful jeepneys, pedicabs, and motorized tricycles (similar to what we often call tuk-tuks). It was a vibrant, up-close glimpse of daily life in Manila. We also stopped to tour Fort Santiago, an old stone fort with deep historical significance — and yes, we had to watch out for flying golf balls from the nearby course! Our excursion concluded with a visit to Rizal Park, where we saw the monument dedicated to José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. Standing there really helped us appreciate the country’s rich and complex history. After our tour, we took a shuttle to Robinsons Place Manila, a massive multi-story mall where we found everything from familiar American restaurants to bustling food courts, a full supermarket — and even a Catholic Mass advertised! If you’re cruising to Manila and wondering what to expect at the port or on a city excursion, this video will give you a firsthand look at the sights, sounds, and culture of this dynamic city. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more travel adventures!