Getting Around Manila: Transport Guide

Within Manila, tourists can choose from a range of alternative modes of transport- from fast and efficient trains to leisurely- but definitely much more interesting- `river buses’. The most convenient, of course, are hired cars (most hotels offer car-rental facilities for guests). Alternatively, you could use the local taxis- white and yellow vehicles that are fairly common, and fortunately not exorbitantly priced. Do remember, however, that many taxis have faulty or broken meters, so you should have an idea of the fare before you board the taxi and/or negotiate with the driver before climbing in.

For mass transit, Manila has three options: the Metro Tren (which runs between the areas of España and Alabang; the elevated railways (between Caloocan and Baclaran), and the buses, which have a very good network and are fairly inexpensive. Manila also offers two rather unusual options for transport: jeepneys (the colourful local jeeps which act as mini buses) and the Metroferry river-buses, which ply on the Pasig River and are a good way of getting to see the city- and the river- at close quarters.