Exploring the 7000 islands which comprise the Philippine archipelago always begins with touching down in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which handles 99% of all the flights which serve the country. The bustling center of transport is served by major airlines including Cathay Pacific, KLM, Emirates, Air China and Korean Air. The largest commercial airport in the Philippines, it boasts four terminals to accommodate its 20 million yearly visitors. There are on average more than ten flights a day from London to Manila, so arriving at almost any conceivable point during the day is possible.

Disembarkation involves the usual immigration counters, card processing and baggage handling, with nothing unexpected for anyone who’s traveled before. Prepare your baggage so it could potentially be checked with ease by customs, and allow plenty of time if hoping to be picked up. Manila is a busy airport as it is a highly popular destination, so patience and organization will reward you with a stress free experience. A trolley costs only around 50 pesos, and money can be easily changed in the arrival lobby, where there is also a bank, several restaurants and coffee shops. The pick-up point is a short distance from the main hub at the bottom of a short ramp. As the transport gateway to the rest of the Philippines, you can always be sure to be well connected when in Manila’s bustling center. Bus terminals are spread everywhere in Manila, and conveniently, there is taxi access to all 16 districts of Manila Metro. For a less conventional way of getting around, why not sample the many alternatives modes of transport, from the relatively demure Manila Light Rail to the downright flamboyant jeepney. The business district of Makati City houses some of the finest 5 star hotels in Manila, and is only 5 miles from Terminal One of the airport.

Once ensconced in a suitable abode, make it a paramount priority to see the Manila sunset from Roxas Boulevard, then stroll to the nearby Cultural Center of the Philippines, if only to observe its dazzling fountains. If wildlife is your passion, head to the stunning new Manila Ocean Park, which has over 5000 species of fish, including a dancing jellyfish exhibit, a musical fountain show, and Asia’s largest underwater viewing tunnel, which meanders for 200 yards under a crystalline tropical habitat. Alternatively, visit the Manila zoological and botanical garden, which lays claim to being the oldest zoo in Asia, and is peppered with traditional features including wishing ponds and beautiful shrines. For bustling city strolls, people watching and culture, head to Ermita district and engage with its 16th century religious architecture, antique shops and friendly locals, head to downtown Manila’s shopping district which dates from 1900 and sells everything from vibrant scented roses to designer sunglasses or visit the largest Chinatown in the world for exotic gifts and sensational food.

Find the best value flights to Ninoy Aquino International Airport and start planning your Philippine adventures at:

http://www.netflights.com/cheap-flights-to-manila-from-london-heathrow.aspx

http://www.flightstomanila.org.uk/