Go Back in Time While Staying at Cherry Blossoms Hotel

If you want to get in touch with your Filipino roots, be closer to some of Manila’s oldest attractions by staying in a cozy hotel in Ermita, Manila. Additional to that, the easy access of the city’s major transportation system will give you the opportunity to understand the streets of Manila better. By being near some of the greatest landmarks, you can learn more about the history of Manila. Here are some of the attractions you would want to explore during your stay in Cherry Blossoms Hotel.

Luneta Park

To understand the background of Luneta Park, take the time to observe a particular sculptural statue and there you’ll discover how it placed a mark on Manila’s historical timeline. By paying a visit to this urban landmark, you will be able to relive Manila’s history by getting to know our national hero and how the park got its name.

The Walled City of Intramuros

Get your cameras ready because you’re going to take the time to embrace the view of this historical monument that was built during the Spanish colonial period. Find out the secrets and the tales of one of our great national heroes who was kept as a prisoner behind these concrete walls, but not to worry, the story behind it will leave a mark in your heart.

Roxas Boulevard

If you’re a fan of sunsets, there’s a place not far from Intramuros where you can take long walks right next to the sea bay. The only historical fact about this place is that it relates to one of the Philippines’ past presidents and the name was given to his honor. Do keep a lookout for restaurants and other places for food trips because you’ll definitely find something that will keep your stomachs full.

So when you’re done exploring these remarkable places, our accommodation in Manila will be available to cater to your needs when it comes to comfort and relaxation. So that at the end of the day, you will be able to fall asleep with memories of your journey in discovering Manila’s historical past.  

For more information, visit www.cherryblossomshotel.com.ph.

Regular Luneta Park Activities to Watch Out For - Part 1

Luneta Park, located close to a number of accommodation options in Manila, holds a lot of free activities every week. Here's a short list of the things you can do, see, and listen to at the famous landmark.

1. Musical Dancing Fountain Location: Central Lagoon / Central Section Daily Schedule: Monday to Sunday, 6 to 8 am; Monday to Thursday, 6 to 10 pm; Friday to Sunday, 6 pm to 12 midnight

A little before or after the sun makes its appearance, a colorful display of lights takes over at Rizal Park. The Musical Dancing Fountain happens at the park's central section. Come early, spread your picnic mat close to the Central Lagoon, and see colorful lights dance to familiar tunes. The show's a great treat for kids, too, so it can be a bonding activity for the entire family.

2. The Martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal: A Light and Sound Presentation Location: Light and Sound Complex / Central Section Schedule: Wednesday to Sunday (with entrance fee)

Are you up to a day of learning about the country's national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal? You can take part of a guided day tour of Luneta. The presentation part of the tour comes in 2 languages. The Tagalog version can be heard from 7 pm, while the English version is scheduled at 8 pm. It's a great way of reacquainting “balikbayan” relatives to the country's history, as well as a good opportunity to go sightseeing in one of the most iconic locations in the city.

3. Concert at the Park Location: Open-Air Auditorium / Central Section Daily Schedule: From July to January: Sunday, 5 pm; from February to June: Sunday, 6 pm

If you've seen the live airing of Concert at the Park on the local free TV, then you're no stranger to the Filipinos' love for musical performances. If it's your first time to go to the Open-Air Auditorium, however, you might be surprised to see local artists, international acts, and world-class shows performed for free. The concerts are scheduled on weekends, making them a great way to cap off a family day.

The best part about these activities is that you can enjoy them without having to spend a fortune!

Watch out for the second half of the list so you can choose the performances and activities you want to see, all of which are happening right outside your accommodation in Manila.

7 Tourist Attractions You Can Visit Near Ermita, Manila, Philippines

If you are searching for a Metro Manila accommodation, pick a place located in the Ermita area. Because aside from the availability of a wide choice of hotels, renowned restaurants, and other key establishments, staying here will grant you easy access to many attractions in the city and beyond.

1. Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex
If you have a liking for art and culture, then the Cultural Center of the Philippines should be on top of your places to visit. There are performances held here on a regular basis, but the best time to check out shows is from July to August during the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. Here, you can catch thought-provoking and substance-rich movies from the best and brightest underground filmmakers in the country and the rest of Asia.

2. Star City
Star City is just a few minutes from the CCP Complex. This theme park can provide mindless fun for hours, with rollercoasters, bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, various play areas, carousel, laser tag arena, and 4D simulator ride.

3. Manila Ocean Park
A visit to this park will give you greater knowledge and appreciation for the ocean and aquatic life. This place features large tanks filled with different kinds of sea creatures, like sharks, rays, and various fishes. There's also a dolphin and sea lion show that both kids and adults will enjoy. A spa is also located inside this theme park so you can get some pampering before heading back to your hotel in Manila.

4. Robinsons Manila
Feeling hungry after all those movies and rides? Hail a cab and go to this shopping center in Downtown Manila. It has a large selection of restaurants, fast food diners, and food carts. No matter what your preferences are, you will find a place that offers American, Italian, Asian, or even Persian specialties.

5. Luneta Park
Probably the most well-known and frequented site in Metro Manila is Luneta or Rizal Park. This is where the Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, was executed via firing squad in 1896. In addition to being an important historical spot, it is also a popular picnic destination for families and tourists.

6. Intramuros
Join a tour of Manila by controversial tour guide/pundit Carlos Celdran and have a fun, amusing, and very educational stroll inside the centuries-old walled city of Intramuros. Learn about the different churches, buildings, and institutions here, which should all be just a few minutes away if you're staying at a hotel accommodation in Manila's Ermita district.

7. SM Mall of Asia
One of the biggest shopping and entertainment complexes in the world, SM Mall of Asia or MOA does not run short of activities, shops, restaurants, and other leisure options. Before calling it a day at your Ermita, Manila accommodation, stick around to catch the must-see nightly fireworks exhibition.