LET THE FOOD BECOME YOUR TOUR GUIDE


Hi,

I'm Nikki and I live in beautiful Portland, OR. I am a lover of foods and also travel. So, I thought it would be fun to combine the two.

I know my favorite part of my vacations is the different foods I get to try that represent those regions. Foods are the thumbprint of a city. The foods people eat support life, they express their history, and they bring cultures together. Sounds great to me. I suppose that's why I "live food" full-time now....as a culinary student.

If you're interested in food and travel and would like to learn a little more about the food, sights, and culture of a few places around the world then this may be the blog for you. If you think so too, I'm looking forward to having you come along with me on this journey.

Bon Voyage & Bon Appetit!

Monday, April 22, 2013

WELCOME TO MANILA, PHILIPPINES

"The Pearl of the Orient"



I'm so glad you decided to continue on with me for this food lover's journey!  Even though I have never been here, Manila is a special place to me.  My son is 1/4 Filipino and I have become familiar with the diverse dishes this culture has to offer.   My research into Manila made me realize all the great things this city has to offer.   From a tourist's perspective, this could be a wonderful choice for a getaway.   My suggestion to you would be to go with an empty stomach - it won't stay that way for long!  


HISTORY


Manila is the capital city and the seat of political power in the Philippines.   Known as the "Pearl of the Orient" or the "Gateway to the Philippines," it encompasses six different cities and 12 different towns.   It is also a Global City where the Executive and Judicial branches of government are located and it is the most dense city in the world.  It is known for its friendly people, history and culture, and for its delicious food which is served in large quantities.



BEST TIME TO VISIT


If you're interested in visiting Manila, there is a small window during the year that is best to do so.   Due to the typhoons (yikes!) and the significant rainfall it receives most of the year, the most ideal time to visit is between the months of March - May.  The climate can get especially humid at this time, but rain will most likely not delay some of your travel plans during those months.  


THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND MANILA


Aside from all the wonderful cultural things to do which I will list some of below, Manila is also a shopper's paradise.   The Mall of Asia repeatedly came up in searches of top things to do when visiting.   This, along with some of the historical landmarks and beautiful architecture that can be seen there, make this an excellent place to visit.  

  1. Mall of Asia
    Intramuros
    "The Walled City"

  2. National Museum of the Philippines
  3. Tour of Manila's famous churches 
  4. Ocean Park (Marine theme park)
  5. Corregidor Island (short boat trip / scenic WWII memorial)
  6. Intramuros ("The Walled City" - the oldest district in Manila)
  7. Manila Rizal Park (Urban park great for family picnics)
  8. Fort Santiago (16th century fort)


IS IT TIME TO EAT YET? 


A plate of pancit noodles, lumpia, and skewered pork

Why, yes!  Yes, it is!  Filipino foods are a mixed cuisine of Malay, Spanish, Chinese and American.   The Philippines is a foodie paradise.   The day starts with breakfast, moves on the brunch, followed by lunch, then a snack, and then on to dinner.   If you are a lover of yummy and abundant food, this is the place for you. Although, if you are a vegetarian, your options might be a little more limited here.


Popular choices include:

  1. Sinagang (Meat/seafood in sour broth)
  2. Longganisa (Philippine sausage)
  3. Lumpia (Fresh or fried spring rolls)
  4. Adobo (Chicken/pork braised in garlic,vinegar, oil & soy sauce)
  5. Lechon (Whole roasted pig)
  6. Pancit (Noodles)
  7. Fried squid or fish balls / Fried salted fish
  8. Fried Banana Fritter
  9. Rice, rice, and more rice
  10. Halo Halo (Dessert of shaved ice, evaporated milk, sweet beans & fruit)

Feeling Adventurous?   Here's a few suggestions off the beaten path (foodwise).....


Balut Duck Egg
  1. Balut (Fermented duck egg)
  2. Grilled Chicken Feet
  3. Grilled Pork Ears 





What is Filipino Food?



Filipino food can be characterized in my opinion as comfort food.  Family plays a huge role in the daily meals and food is often part of a festival or an informal celebration, taking hours to prepare.  Filipino food ranges from the simple to the elaborate and usually combines sweet with sour or salty flavors. Rice is a staple food served with most dishes.  Proteins normally consist of beef, pork, or chicken.   Fish is common due to their geographic location and is usually served fried or salted.  Additionally, dipping sauces such as soy or vinegar will accompany many foods.        



If you are a lover of feel-good foods that bring a close connection to that specific culture, I would suggest a visit to Manila.  There is no lack of things to do and no shortage of satisfying meals to choose from.  If you're looking for a city that is a collection of beauty, history, culture and an abundance of regional cuisine, Manila is a destination that encompasses all of those attributes.   Thanks for coming along.  


Next, we're going to take a detour and head back to the place I call home....Portland, OR!   This week's feature will take a look at some of the great food carts that help to make Portland such a food paradise of its own.  You won't want to miss that one!  




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