Don’t be surprised if you see most of the famous tourist attractions carrying Spanish names. For instance, Fort Santiago. (Personally, I think it looks similar to A Famosa of Melaka, which was built by Portuguese colonial). Fort Santiago was built during the Spanish colonial as the entrance to the Pasig River. The fort was sculptured with magnificent detailed designs on it. One of the most well-known functions of Fort Santiago was as a prison. National hero, José Rizal, was imprisoned here before being executed during the Spanish era.

Fort Santiago also served as the entrance to a walled city called Intramuros. During the old times, Intramuros was like a complete city by itself, special enough to have a thick wall surrounding it! (Imagine a big brick gate built around a big city). Some wonderful buildings can be found in Intramuros like (take note of the names) Casa Manila, Plaza de la Fuerza, Reducto de San Pedro and Puerta del Parian. (Haven’t I told you that they carry strong Spanish influences?)

San Angustin Church, which is located in Intramuros, looks almost old and weary at first glance. Don’t be fooled by it. Look closer. You will see a beautifully carved main door. Open it. And you would be welcomed with breathtaking murals on the walls and rooftop! San Angustin Church is listed in the World Heritage Sites of Philippines since 1993 under Baroque Churches of the Philippines. (Don’t you think it’s a must-visit spot?)

National hero, José Rizal was a nationalist of the Philippines and his spirit lived in the heart of every Pilipino until today. Rizal Park is the place where the execution of José Rizal was carried and a monument was erected to pay tribute to the honourable hero. Besides that, there are also some other monuments and artworks being constructed around the park. Rizal Park is also known as “Luneta” simply because it is shaped like a half moon.

In Rizal Park, you can also drop by the National Museum of the Philippines. This museum will bring you along the journey back to the old Philippines. They store invaluable historical memories here. Look out for ‘Tabon Man’, the oldest prehistoric human remains here! And also not forgetting rhythm and blues from the era of Spanish colonization too! It basically archives every detail of the Philippines history. Definitely worth a visit!

Can’t wait for more? Simply drop by PYO Travel.com and fly over in no time!

A Walk to the Past in Manila is a post from: PYObuddy.com

As I’ve always mentioned, being adventurous is one of some key points I look for in my trips. Believe it or not, Siem Reap is exactly what I’m looking for. Now, let me dress up in my “Indiana Jones” costume and join “Lara Croft” in Angkor Wat! To ring some bells, some scenes in Tomb Raider 2 were shot here in Angkor Wat… The very famous temple is the major attraction of Siem Reap. It was built in the 12th Century and since then, it became a tourist attraction so significant that the monument itself is featured on the Cambodia flag! From afar, Angkor Wat stands firm and grand. As you get nearer, you will see a lot of well-carved sculptures and figures on its brick walls. There is also one part of the building where a huge tree grew on (and still growing…!)

Lara Croft wuz there!

Watermelons anyone?

Another major attraction is the Tonle Sap Lake. This lake can be considered as the ‘heart’ and the water is like the ‘blood’ of Siem Reap! Most probably, it is one of the main sources of protein and water for Cambodians. Fishermen and their family members live in floating houses by the lake side (and even in the middle part of the lake) to survive and earn livings. The ‘magic’ of this river is that it changes directions of flow twice a year. During the dry season, the lake drains water into Mekong River and during the rainy season, it would form an enormous lake! The magic of nature… Yeah!!!

A fisherman and his son in Tonle Sap Lake

The side view of Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Do not miss out the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda too! Why?! Basically, it’s because of the structure of this two buildings. The design of this buildings features the classic Khmer architecture, so defined that it is separated into various parts and layouts like the throne hall, stupas, defensive wall, mural paintings and towering spires. For your information, the throne hall of Royal Palace is still in use now for religious and royal purposes.

Can’t wait any longer for Siem Reap?! Pack your bags for some real adventures!!! But before that, don’t forget the tickets and travel packages HERE.

The Real Adventure in Siem Reap is a post from: PYObuddy.com