Iza Juano on Manila's Cocktail Scene (Manila)

Manila deserves more than a layover.

For Iza Juano of Bar Flora and Matador in Manila, the city has plenty to offer — if more travelers would give it a chance beyond using it as a stopover on the way to the Philippines’ islands.

From Makati’s cosmopolitan energy to Quezon City’s own character, Manila isn’t just one place with one vibe. Each neighborhood has its own personality, and there’s plenty to explore, eat and drink along the way.

Maybe it’s time to stop rushing through Manila and start discovering it — one neighborhood, one bar, and one drink at a time.