The Philippine flag is starting to wave everywhere, a sure sign that Independence Day is just around the corner! 🇵🇭 This year, we decided to skip the usual hustle and bustle and join my best friend’s family for a mini Manila tour for the kids. Exploring the city with little ones can be a challenge, so we were all ecstatic for this chance.

Funny thing is, despite living relatively close to Manila, we haven’t done a proper city exploration ourselves! We did visit Rizal Park back in 2019 during a staycation at the Manila Hotel, but that was a quick stopover. This time, Rizal Park was our first official stop. We paid homage to our national hero, Jose Rizal, and the kids were awestruck by the gigantic Philippine flag proudly displayed in front of his monument.

Next stop: Manila Cathedral! This was a first for my son and probably my second time since way back in 2009 (when I went to President Cory Aquino‘s wake). The historical significance definitely adds another layer to the beautiful architecture. My son was particularly fascinated by the intricate carvings and statues that adorned the walls, each one telling a story of faith and history. It was a beautiful reminder of the rich Catholic heritage in the Philippines.

For lunch, we indulged in a truly Filipino experience at Cafe Adriatico in Malate. This iconic restaurant, serving Filipino, Spanish, and continental cuisine, is a must-try for anyone visiting the area. It was actually my second visit, and let me tell you, the food is timeless!

Our final stop was the National Museum of Natural History, a place we’d all been wanting to visit for ages. It was fascinating to explore the diverse exhibits with the kids, learning about the Philippines’ rich natural heritage.

Spending the day with my chosen family – my best friend, our kids, and all the laughter in between – was truly unforgettable. It just goes to show that adventures are even more special when shared with loved ones. Can’t wait for our next escapade together!