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The Getting Around

Metro Manila offers virtually every mode of public transportation, as well as few others you'll find extraordinary. All charge a specific minimum fare with the total cost depending on the distance traveled. The most luxurious and hassle-free mode of transport of course are taxis and car rentals.

Car Rentals: Car rentals, with or without driver is readily available at airports, hotels and local independent services. If you know the city, driving yourself is fine but you have to deal with some traffic and parking problems.

Taxis: Air-conditioned taxis cost P20.00 on the meter and additional P1 is added for every 500 meters to the final cost. No Regular taxis. Taxis are always lined up at the major hotels and tourist restaurants and can be hailed on the street. If you take a taxi, make sure the driver turns on the meter. If he gives you a story that it is broken, get out and take another taxi. Unless you are taking a long trip or traffic is unusually horrible, most taxi rides should be well under P100. At least a 10% tip is expected.

Public Transport: Air-conditioned and regular buses or Tamaraw FX, usually ply the major routes such as EDSA. Other convenient choices for transport include the unique and colorful, Filipino-built local jeepneys, the (LRT) Light Rail Transit, public utility tricycles (motorcyle-run side cars) and pedicabs (pedal-pushed side car)

The picturesque horsedrawn carriages called Kalesa or Karitela, could also be an interesting way of going around Manila's historical landmarks such as the Intramuros, Luneta Park, Chinatown (Binondo, Ongpin) and Divisoria, where the hub of night markets and bargain can be found.