How to Save Money on a Manila Layover

Manila guide: transit hacks. Real, specific, no fluff.

Getting to Manila from Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the primary airport serving Manila, and it's crucial to know the best ways to get to the city center. You can grab a taxi from the airport, but this will set you back around PHP 300-500 (USD 5-10) depending on traffic. For a more affordable option, you can take the Airport Shuttle Bus, which costs PHP 150 (USD 3) per person. The bus operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and takes around 45 minutes to an hour to reach the city center.

Another option is to take the Manila-bound Jeepney from the airport. This is a more local experience, but it's also the cheapest option at PHP 50 (USD 1) per person. Jeepneys operate from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and the journey takes around 30-40 minutes.

For a more convenient and hassle-free experience, you can pre-book a private airport transfer or a ride-hailing service like Grab or Uber.

Free Things to Do in Manila

Visit the Rizal Park

Rizal Park is one of the largest urban parks in Asia, and it's a must-visit when in Manila. This 58-hectare park is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and it's home to several historical landmarks, including the Rizal Monument and the Manila Planetarium. Admission is free, although you can take a guided tour for a fee.

Take a stroll along the park's walking trails, visit the Manila Ocean Park, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery. You can also attend free concerts and events held in the park throughout the year.

Explore the Intramuros Walls

Intramuros is the historic walled city of Manila, and it's a treasure trove of history and culture. You can walk along the ancient walls, visit the iconic Fort Santiago, and take in the stunning views of the Manila Bay. Admission to the Intramuros Walls is free, although you'll need to pay for entrance fees to certain attractions within the walls.

Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Intramuros Walls, or simply explore the area on your own.

Visit the Manila Cathedral

Attend a Mass or Take a Tour

The Manila Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and it's a must-visit when in Manila. You can attend a mass at the cathedral, or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance. Admission to the cathedral is free, although you'll need to pay for entrance fees to certain areas.

Take a moment to admire the cathedral's stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and ornate details. You can also visit the nearby San Agustin Church, which is another historic landmark in the area.

Transit Hacks in Manila

Get Familiar with the MRT and LRT

The Manila Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems are the best ways to get around Manila. You can buy a beep card, which is a prepaid card that you can use to ride the MRT and LRT. A single ride costs PHP 20 (USD 0.40), and you can also get discounts for bulk rides.

Make sure to check the MRT and LRT schedules before heading out, as the systems operate from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. You can also use the MRT and LRT apps to plan your route and track your journey.

Use Ride-hailing Services

Ride-hailing services like Grab and Uber are widely available in Manila, and they're a convenient way to get around the city. You can use these services to get to your destination quickly and easily, and you can also use them to book a ride to the airport.

Make sure to follow the rules and regulations set by the ride-hailing services, and always check the estimated fare before confirming your ride.

Where to Exchange Currency in Manila

Airport FX: Not the Best Option

When you arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you'll have several options to exchange your currency. However, the airport foreign exchange (FX) centers charge high rates, with a markup of around 8-15%. This means that you'll get a lower exchange rate than what you would get at a local bank or currency exchange center.

For example, if you exchange USD 100 at the airport FX center, you might get PHP 4,500 (USD 90). However, if you exchange the same amount at a local bank, you might get PHP 4,800 (USD 96). That's a difference of PHP 300 (USD 6) in your favor.

Portability: A Better Option

One of the best ways to exchange currency in Manila is to use a service like Portability. This online platform allows you to order currency online and pick it up at a local branch or have it delivered to your doorstep. Portability charges a small fee of 0.2%, which is significantly lower than the airport FX centers.

For example, if you order USD 100 on Portability, you might get PHP 4,800 (USD 96) with a fee of PHP 10 (USD 0.20). This is a much better option than exchanging currency at the airport FX center.

Remember to always research and compare rates before exchanging currency, and to use a reputable service to avoid any issues.

By following these transit hacks and currency exchange tips, you can save money and make the most of your trip to Manila.

And don't forget to download Portability to get the best exchange rates for your currency needs.