Leisure activities in Manila for expat groups and families
Weekends are usually meant for spending quality time, whether alone or with family, friends, or a partner. There are many cool activities in Manila that you can do during the day alone or with company. The city boasts plenty of places to visit that are full of history, art, and fun. You would be surprised how much you might actually enjoy these!
Things to do with a partner in Manila
Have brunch in BGC, Manila
BGC is home to luxury shopping centers, dining spots, residential condominiums and corporate offices. It is a busy and bustling concrete jungle on weekdays but serves as a quiet hanging-out spot on weekends. It has hip breakfast places which are sure to satisfy your cravings for the most important meal of the day, setting the mood for a fun, relaxing and productive day ahead – over bacon, ham, toast and omelettes. Some options include Wildflour Breakfast Cafe, Single Origin, and Early Bird Breakfast Club. Brunch can be followed by a nice morning stroll after breakfast, exploring the area, and checking out BGC's street art scene. You can see unique and colorful street murals from well-known local and international artists all over BGC. On weeknights or Fridays/Saturdays, there are clubs and bars which are sure to elevate your partying experience.
Watch the Manila Bay sunset
Manila Bay is one of the best places in the world to watch the sun go down, especially along Roxas Boulevard. Couples, families and friends flock along the bay to catch this spectacular sight. Mall of Asia, also dubbed as the largest mall in Asia, boasts a good view of the sunset because of its seaside location. To catch the sunset, head to the second floor of the mall, towards Seaside Boulevard, around 5 pm. There are lots of al fresco restaurant options facing the bay, so you can enjoy this sunset with a cold bucket of beers.
Things to do with family or friends in Manila
Sing your heart out with videoke in Manila
Music is considered an official Filipino passion, and videoke (otherwise known as karaoke) is easily the most practical and affordable way to indulge. Filipinos certainly love to sing! A typical night out with family or friends is to visit one of the many videoke spots in Manila and sing until the sun comes up. Videoke is such an integral part of Filipino culture that you can see families renting out videoke machines during birthday celebrations, Christmas, or any family gathering. One of the most popular venues for a videoke night is still Music 21 Plaza Family KTV and Restaurant with multiple branches around the city. Another option is Centrestage Family KTV Resto & Bar , which has unique videoke rooms with a plethora of food options from dim sum to pizza and drinks, plus a fun atmosphere for all ages.
Group activities and team building in Manila
If the plan is a day/night out with workmates or a group of friends in Manila for team bonding, a special occasion or just for the hell of it then we have some unique new venues for you!
Firstly you could try the Attack Arena, a multi-purpose arena that caters to airsoft, archery, indoor golf, axe throwing, and other exciting modern group activities!
If you feel like exploring Manila with your gang, then why not try White Knight e-Chariot Tour Manila offering a guided tour with e-bikes around Manila for only p1000 for 30mins or p2000 for 1 hour.
Another option for groups is the increasingly popular ‘Escape Rooms' found throughout Manila. An Escape Room is a venue where you use your physical skills or brainpower to escape and win. Probably the Escape Room which is leading the way is Mystery Manila.
In conclusion, Manila is a huge metropolis, and there is definitely something for everyone. Explore, be safe, enjoy our recommendations above, and allow ample time for travel!
