Weird/crazy, very Filipino date ideas in Manila to show my foreign boyfriend?
My foreign boyfriend is coming to visit Manila for about a week, and I'm looking for fun things to do together.
For reference, my boyfriend has been to the Philippines before, so I don't want to take him on typical tourist routes. When I lived abroad, he visited the city I lived in, and he showed me the places that were part of his daily life, the places he frequented, the neighborhoods he knew well, and small things that meant something to him. I didn't want to go to famous tourist sites; I wanted him to experience what my real life was like.
This time, I want to do something similar in Manila, but I want to show him more of my childhood. I'd like to go to my old school, the road I walked to school, and the places I used to hang out, and eat the food I ate as a kid. I also want to find truly strange, fun, and distinctly Filipino experiences.
What my boyfriend most wants to see is dwarf boxing in Pob lacion. He doesn't really want expensive activities, fancy restaurants, common recommendations like Intramuros, BGC, or rooftop bars, or ordinary tourist spots. I'm open to anything: bizarre local events, lesser-known Filipino traditions, unusual performances, neighborhood activities, weird competitions, chaotic local experiences, things most tourists would never think of.
I'd prefer things that are unique to the Philippines, or specifically to Manila, rather than activities he could do in any other country.
What are some truly unusual, fun, and slightly crazy things to do in Metro Manila? Bonus points for things locals know about but tourists usually don't do!
Thank you!!
Honestly, dwarf boxing is only fun for about 20 minutes. The drinks are ridiculously overpriced, and soon you realize it's all kind of weird and creepy.. If you don't see that, then maybe you're the weird and creepy one lol Intramuros is really amazing!!! I took my family there in September. I've lived in the Philippines for 12 years and it was my first time, and I was truly amazed and moved. Go to Chinatown too. The food is excellent, and it's fun to walk around the neighborhood and browse the small shops. Walk the MOA promenade and ride the rides there too.
It's a really kind post, but as someone else said, this subreddit is for foreigners, so you know your own country better. Still, I hope my girlfriend has at least half as much consideration, so I don't have to plan every date lol
Cockfighting. Flip-top rap battles. Eating lechon at a small shop in Tondo, where Anthony Bourdain went.
Guys usually only want a very small amount of planned itinerary on vacation. They're not coming to see the guide, they're coming to see you. Just go with the flow.
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