MANILA OCEAN PARK & BIODOME BLISS

📅 Itinerary My Day: Wonders Above and Below the Waves! I dedicated a full day to this incredible combo, starting bright and early at Manila Ocean Park. My first stop was the famous Oceanarium, and wow, it did not disappoint! Walking through that main tunnel with sharks and rays gliding overhead was truly breathtaking—it felt exactly like I was walking on the ocean floor. I then explored the various themed zones, from the vibrant coral reefs to the fascinating jellies. The Penguin Exhibit was adorable, and seeing them waddle and swim was a pure joy. I even caught a really informative and entertaining sea lion show—those creatures are so intelligent and playful! After spending a good chunk of the morning and early afternoon at the Ocean Park, I made my way to the Philippine Biodome. This was such an eye-opener! It's like stepping into a miniature version of the Philippines' most diverse ecosystems. I saw so many unique plants and even some endemic animals I'd only read about. It really highlighted the incredible natural heritage of the country. The design of the dome itself is impressive, creating a perfect environment for all the species within. 🏨 Accommodation Since both attractions are located within the larger Manila area (near Roxas Boulevard), there are tons of accommodation options nearby. I stayed in a hotel in Ermita, which was just a short Grab ride away from Ocean Park. This made it really convenient to get there early and beat some of the crowds. Many hotels in the vicinity offer great views of Manila Bay, which is a bonus! 🍴 Food Recommendations Both Manila Ocean Park and the area around it have plenty of dining choices: • Inside Ocean Park: There are several cafes and restaurants offering a range of cuisines from fast food to sit-down meals. I grabbed a quick lunch at one of the cafes to maximize my exploration time, and it was perfectly decent. • Near Roxas Boulevard: Just outside, you'll find a variety of seafood restaurants that are famous for their fresh catches. If you have time in the evening, I highly recommend trying one for a classic Filipino seafood feast. • Mall of Asia Area: A short drive away is the SM Mall of Asia, which has an enormous selection of international and local restaurants, perfect if you want more variety after your visit. 📌 Tips • Go Early! To truly enjoy both attractions and avoid the biggest crowds, get there right when they open. This also gives you ample time to see everything without feeling rushed. • Wear Comfy Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. • Check Show Schedules: If you want to catch the sea lion show or other presentations, check the schedule upon arrival and plan your visit around them. They're definitely worth seeing! • Combined Tickets: Look into purchasing combined tickets for both attractions if available, as this often saves you money compared to buying separate admissions. • Bring a Camera: There are so many fantastic photo opportunities