Southeast Travel Guide

Plan your Southeast itinerary with this comprehensive guide that covers everything from top tourist attractions, local culture, food, safety, transportation options, and much more.


Introduction to Southeast

Southeast is a barangay (neighborhood) in Quezon City in the northern part of Metro Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It is a lively and dynamic area that boasts of a rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, beautiful natural attractions, and an exciting food and drink scene.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Southeast’s best attractions, activities, and hidden gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you plan your Southeast itinerary and make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Southeast

Here are some of the best places to visit in Southeast:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo ni Manuel Quezon - A museum dedicated to the life and times of Manuel Quezon, the second president of the Philippines.
  • Quezon Heritage House - An ancestral house turned museum that showcases the lifestyle and culture of Filipinos during the early 20th century.
  • Pinaglabanan Shrine - A historical site that commemorates the brave Filipino soldiers who fought against the Spanish colonial army in 1896.

Natural Attractions of Southeast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pugad Lawin Shrine - A nature park and sanctuary that features lush greenery and panoramic views of the city.
  • La Mesa Eco Park - A sprawling natural park that offers a range of outdoor activities like bird watching, biking, and trekking.
  • Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center - A nature reserve that houses numerous indigenous plants and animals such as tarsiers, deer, and monkeys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeast

Southeast is blessed with natural trails that offer an escape from the concrete jungle of the city. Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking:

  • Marikina Riverbanks - Ideal for both biking and hiking, this route offers stunning views of the Marikina River.
  • Wawa Dam - A scenic trail that offers a glimpse of the Wawa River and the lush greenery of the Sierra Madre mountains.
  • Mount Balagbag - A popular hiking destination that takes you to the summit with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the city.

Best Things to Do in Southeast: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Southeast for a memorable experience:

  • Explore the bustling Banawe Street, known for auto supply stores, Chinese restaurants, and traditional Chinese drug stores.
  • Try the local street food, including fish balls, squid balls, and kwek-kwek.
  • Take a bike tour of the historic district of Old Manila, where you can see the Spanish-era Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and the Manila Cathedral.
  • Immerse yourself in Southeast’s vibrant nightlife by visiting local bars and clubs such as Malingap Central Food Hall and 70s Bistro.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeast

Day 1: Arrive in Southeast and explore the local area. Day 2: Visit the culturally important attractions such as Museo ni Manuel Quezon and Pinaglabanan Shrine. Day 3: Explore the natural attractions like Pugad Lawin Shrine, La Mesa Eco Park, and Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center. Day 4: Take a hiking or biking adventure in Marikina Riverbanks, Wawa Dam, or Mount Balagbag. Day 5: Explore the food and drink scene of Southeast by sampling the local cuisine and visiting local bars and clubs. Day 6: Visit the nearby destinations and excursions such as Rizal Shrine, Antipolo City, and Padre Pio National Shrine. Day 7: Depart from Southeast and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Southeast

Southeast is known for its fusion of Filipino and Chinese cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sizzling Sisig - A popular Filipino dish made from pig’s head and liver, served on a sizzling plate.
  • Pancit Canton - A Filipino noodle dish made with egg noodles, vegetables, and meat.
  • Halo-Halo - A refreshing dessert made of mixed beans, fruits, shaved ice, and milk.

Local Beverages

  • Sago’t Gulaman - A sweet and refreshing drink made of sago pearls and agar jelly mixed with brown sugar and water.
  • San Miguel Beer - The most popular beer in the Philippines, available in numerous variants including light, dark, and pale pilsen.

Where to Stay in Southeast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are various options for accommodation in Southeast to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

  • OYO 107 Spiral Suites - An affordable hotel with modern amenities and spacious rooms.
  • Jinjiang Inn - A mid-range hotel with an outdoor pool, 24-hour front desk, and a restaurant.
  • Luxent Hotel - A luxury hotel with a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.

What to Buy in Southeast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products, here are some of the best options:

  • Indigo-dyed products - Southeast is known for its tradition of indigo-dyeing, where fabrics are dyed in a natural blue color.
  • Banawe Auto Supply Stores - Banawe Street is known for its auto supply stores that offer high-quality spare parts and accessories at reasonable prices.
  • Handicrafts and artworks - The local markets and bazaars sell a range of handmade items such as wooden figurines and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Southeast

Southeast is a melting pot of various cultures and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Filipinos are known for their hospitality and friendliness, always ready to offer assistance to tourists.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions, especially during religious festivities such as Holy Week or Christmas.
  • Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in the service industry.

Best Time to Visit Southeast

The best time to visit Southeast is from December to February when the weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeast

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Explore the hidden gems of Southeast.
  • Learn about the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or damage the natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southeast

Southeast is generally a safe area for tourists. However, it is advisable to take precautions such as:

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry.
  • Do not walk alone in isolated areas at night.
  • Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas or public transportation.

Health in Southeast

Make sure to take the necessary health precautions when traveling to Southeast:

  • Drink bottled water to avoid getting diarrhea or other water-borne diseases.
  • Apply insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites, which may spread dengue fever or other illnesses.

Getting to Southeast: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are various options for getting to Southeast. Here are the most convenient options:

Airports Near Southeast

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) - The largest and busiest airport in the Philippines, located approximately 18km from Southeast.

Bus Stations Near Southeast

  • Cubao Bus Terminal - The largest bus terminal in Metro Manila, located approximately 4km from Southeast.

Other Options

  • Taxi - Taxis are easily accessible in Metro Manila and can take you directly to Southeast.
  • Grab - A ride-sharing service like Uber that is widely used in the Philippines.

How to Get Around in Southeast

The best way to get around Southeast is by taking a taxi, Grab, or jeepney, a popular form of public transportation in the Philippines.

Where to Go Next from Southeast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southeast is located in a strategic location that makes it easy to explore other destinations in Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Rizal Shrine - A historical site that commemorates the life and times of Dr. Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, located approximately 15km from Southeast.
  • Antipolo City - A city that offers stunning views of the Metro Manila skyline and is known for its pilgrimage sites and local cuisine, located approximately 10km from Southeast.
  • Padre Pio National Shrine - A religious site that honors Saint Padre Pio, the patron saint of healing and miracles, located approximately 44km from Southeast.

Conclusion

Southeast is a hidden gem in Metro Manila that offers a range of attractions and adventures. We hope that this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your Southeast itinerary and make the most of your trip to the Philippines. Safe travels!

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