If you’re an Edmonton traveller looking for a unique vacation like nothing else, you’ll want to add Manila, Philippines, to your travel bucket list. 

Air Canada has just launched non-stop flights from Vancouver to Manila, which are departing four times a week! As Canada’s national carrier, Air Canada connects 25 Canadian destinations to YVR, so you’ll have no problem getting there for take-off. 

Come along to Manila, the historic capital city of the Philippines, known for its rich culture, friendly tourists, and sensational street eats. It’s never been easier (or more relaxing) to get there. Want the details? Here is a little inspiration for your next Manila vacay!

Historic and abundant culture

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As a city with such a unique and storied past, Manila is bursting with culture anywhere you look. Just take a gander at the old-world Intramuros, a historic walled area with colonial-era Spanish relics of the past.

Step back in time with a visit to the Roman Catholic San Agustin Church (one of four baroque churches in the country recognized by UNESCO World Heritage sites), built in 1606, It’s a massive and ornate building with a grand pipe organ, three-dimensional carvings, and 16 giant French chandeliers. 

Another must-visit cultural hub in Intramuros is Casa Manila, a living museum that displays the typical lifestyle of affluent Filipinos during the Spanish colonial period. Furnished with pieces from the turn of the 19th century, Casa Manila features unique items like Chinese ceramics, painted walls, and gilded furniture. 

Home to three important museums, the National Museum Complex houses Manila’s National Museums of Fine Arts, Anthropology, and Natural History, each serving as its representation of Filipino heritage. With historic items like pieces from beloved national painter and sculptor Juan Luna, make sure to give yourself enough time to explore all three buildings. 

Nature escapes

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Proud to be the only world-class marine theme park and education facility in the country, Manila Ocean Park boasts eight fascinating exhibits. Perhaps the coolest part of the facility is the Oceanarium, which hosts more than 14,000 marine creatures indigenous to the Philippines and surrounding areas — we’re talking stingrays, sea lions, seahorses, sharks, coral, and so many more. 

Explore more natural environments with a trip to Rizal Park, a historic urban park in the middle of Manila covering almost 60 hectares. First opened in 1955, the park is home to the final resting place of national hero (and namesake) Dr. Jose Rizal, with gardens, plazas, and historical monuments. It’s a popular place for Filipinos and tourists alike to gather and hang out.

Of course, since the Philippines is an island country (with over 7,000 islands and inlets), it’s known for its world-class beaches, some right outside Manila. Batangas or Zambales are perfect destinations for day-trips, and are home to white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and refreshing palm tree breezes. 

World-famous street eats

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Manila is known for many things, but perhaps the tastiest is the city’s incredible range of street foods! Stalls line bustling streets, dishing out bites like steamed dumplings, skewers, and deep-fried snacks, to name just a few.

To eat like a Filipino, you must try some of the country’s most famous plates like adobo, a delicious concoction of braised meats (usually pork) in a tangy sauce, and served over rice.

For something more portable, grab some kwek-kwek, which is deep-fried, hard-boiled chicken or duck egg covered in a vibrant orange batter, coloured and flavoured with annatto powder. And if you’re really ravenous, why not dive into a plate of pancit palabok, a classic Filipino noodle dish topped with hearty shrimp, smoked fish, boiled pork, and chicharron.

Direct from Canada to Manila

Air Canada

Air Canada is serving the most destinations non-stop in Southeast Asia from Canada and offers a truly unparalleled flight journey. Its in-flight offerings promise the utmost in comfort, like full meals, premium snacks, and a huge selection of movies, music, and live TV.

Embark on your journey from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in the Philippines with Air Canada’s latest non-stop flights. As the only Canadian airline offering non-stop service to the Philippines, Air Canada brings an exciting opportunity to explore Manila on your own terms.

Pro tip for travellers: If you’re starting your travel in Edmonton and connecting through Vancouver, Aeroplan members get special perks. On most Air Canada flights within North America and to Sun destinations, members get access to free Wi-Fi, thanks to a new service with Bell that’s expected to roll out on international routes in 2026. 

Visit Air Canada’s website to explore more and book your flight to the vibrant City of the Sun – Manila!