From
the CCP complex, one can proceed to Nayong
Pilipino, a 32-acre theme park which is
about 10-minute drive from the Ninoy Aquino
International Airport (NAIA). The park features scaled-down replicas of the
country’s top tourist destinations such
as Mayon Volcano, the Banaue Rice Terraces
and the Chocolate Hills.
A
smaller park, which offers a venue for relaxation
is also within close distance. The Paco Park, which was built as a cemetery in 1820, is now
a frequent site of mini-concerts and musical
performance by the country’s finest artists.
The
park is surrounded by trees and plants,
which are properly identified. Behind the park is the Paco Hong Giarn Taoist Temple. Nearby are the New Swiss Inn, with bar, restaurant,
and delicatessen, and the Park Hotel, with
lounge, restaurant, and swimming pool.
Not
far from the area is the Manila Zoo on Adriatico street. Manila
Zoo, the country’s largest and oldest, hosts
international and indigenous animal species
such as the Tamaraw and Philippine crocodile.
It is open everyday from 8
a.m. to 6 p.m.
The
northern part of Metro Manila takes pride
in maintaining two animal sanctuaries, Parks
and Wildlife Nature Center and the Malabon Zoo. The former, located at the corner of Quezon Ave. and the Elliptical Road in Quezon City serves as the protection center for exotic animals
confiscated from smugglers and illegal
collectors.
A
stone’s throw away is the Quezon
Memorial Circle,
a park noted for its 30-meter-high monument
of former President Manuel Quezon. Its underground chambers house the Quezon
City Museum
and Art
Gallery.
The
Malabon Zoo and Aquarium, located along
Gov. Pascual Avenue
in Potrero, Malabon also has a collection
of interesting fish and animals.
It is open everyday from 8
a.m. to 5:30
p.m.
In
Makati
City,
an air-conditioned zoo at the Glorietta
mall is frequently visited by parents and
their small children.
This area also has a small playground.