| Manila, the capital of Philippines is one of the oldest cities of East Asia and is known as the greater metropolitan area of Metro Manila. The city has a rich pre-colonial culture as it was a center of trade for Asian neighbors and the powerful Hindu empires in Java and Sumatra. Manila has it all museums, gardens, churches to make your visit to the city worth it. If you are in Manila for the first time, visit Intramuros Visitors Center; the center is situated in heart of Manila and depicts the history and culture of Manila. Here you can get the free maps, leaflets and brochures. To see the ruins of military barracks visit Fort Santiago which has been converted into an open-air theater "Dulaang Rajah Sulayman". Puerta Real, the royal gate reserved for the governor's use in "Puerta Real Gardens" and the marine life of "Acuario de Manila" fascinates people. The city celebrates all major Christian festivals and on Good Friday many crucifixion ceremonies take place throughout the country. Banks and offices remain closed on Independence Day, Bonifacio Day and Rizal Day. Manila is distinguished from its regional neighbors by a strong theatrical tradition. The city has great exposure to English plays, Italian opera, American musicals and other forms of theater. Filipinos love eating and generally their daily food intake comprises of five meals. In this sense some people call it "dining and drinking" capital of Southeast Asia.
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