Tourism-wise, the Philippines is known for its beaches. Hundreds of tourists, foreign and alike, fill airplane seats and hotel reservations as soon as vacation season sets in. However, there is certainly more to this archipelago than just white sands and palm trees. While Philippine beaches are truly nature’s wonder, this tropical country has more to offer. With its rich culture and history, one might be surprised just how much of the real Philippines is left out.

It was while channel surfing when the name Carlos Celdran was first introduced to me. He was shown on television, taking tourists to Quiapo of all places. The idea was certainly new to me. But while boxed in the frame of the camera, I soon realized the beauty and uniqueness of it. Here was Quiapo telling its story with the help of this man! I suppose it takes another person’s point of view to re-shape something so ordinary into something very colorful. Soon, his name began popping up out of nowhere and I applaud him for being such a wonderful guide. He is a modern day historian.

Recently, I chanced upon his blog while surfing the net. In it are some of his viewpoints on Manila, the capital of the Philippines, and of course, schedules of his one-of-a-kind tours. It helps that he has humor and an extensive knowledge of each and every important site in the area.

For those who are interested in experiencing Manila in a new light, Carlos Celdran has posted his August-October tour on his blog. Part of this itinerary includes a regular walking tour of the Walled City of Intramuros, San Agustin and Casa Manila. There is a note saying that the tour has slightly mature content. More information about this tour can be found here.

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