In the Philippines, marine life is best explored by snorkeling or diving. But if you and your loved ones don't have time to check out the beaches around the country, Manila Ocean Park is a decent alternative, especially for kids. At this amusement park, you can interact with penguins, enjoy memorable encounters with sharks and rays, and even let your daughter try out her mermaid fantasy by swimming while wearing a fish tail.

Prepare yourself for an adrenaline rush at Star City: The amusement park that gives you every possible excuse to scream your heart out! Rides and attractions vary, meaning there are some child-friendly ones, and some more extreme that could be enjoyed by older kids and parents.

The Mind Museum allows the whole family to learn while having fun. The first world-class science museum in the Philippines houses around 250 interactive exhibits to feed both your curious mind and your senses. It's a great place to start introducing or explaining complicated concepts to kids, from atoms and frequencies to Earth and astronomy. And should you run out of possible explanations, the museum's 'Mind Movers' (staff) are happy to assist you.

If you want to spend a day outdoors, head over to the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati's Central Business District. Here you'll find space to run, cycle, or play frisbee with family and friends. Roll out the picnic mat and relax with some food and drinks, or for a more formal meal, head to one of the fine dining restaurants in the area. Free events and exhibits are also held in the area from time to time.

Rizal Park is one of Manila's most iconic attractions. Also called Luneta Park, this is the site where the country's national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, was executed — the event that inspired the revolt against the Kingdom of Spain, later called the '1896 Philippine Revolution.' Today a monument marks the execution site, with a 24-hour honor guard watching over it. The place is frequented by families and couples who want to spend quality time together and enjoy a picnic on its grounds. You'll also find a tableaux of Rizal's life here, plus the grandstand where every Philippine President takes their oath of office.

Relieve stress while having family fun at Ace Water Spa. This indoor facility features hydrotherapy massage through its pools and aquatic jets, and a one-time payment allows you to enjoy the place for up to four hours. There is also a designated kids' area, with water games and a lazy river.

When the Spanish colonized the Philippines in the 16th century, they built the walled city of Intramuros, which served as the center of political, religious, and military power. Although the place was heavily damaged during World War II, reconstruction efforts began in the 1950s, and today it is a fascinating district for exploring, including sights like the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church and Museum, Fort Santiago, and Bahay Tsinoy, among others.

Consisting of three historic buildings near Rizal Park — the National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People, and Planetarium — National Museum houses the largest collection of indigenous arts and artifacts in the Philippines. The exhibits depict the culture, heritage, and history of the Filipino people; examining how similar it is with neighboring countries, as well as how distinct it is from them.

It's always fun to top off the day watching the sun set, and Manila Bay's sunsets are famous — in addition to it being home to a number of other activities. You can cycle or stroll along its waterfront, take a cruise on the water, or simply relax at one of the many restaurants in the area.

SM Mall of Asia, also known as MOA, offers an array of activities for the whole family. In addition to myriad shops, the largest mall in Asia features an ice skating rink, bowling alley, science center, and more.

La Mesa Eco Park is a great spot for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. It's an ecological nature reserve next to the La Mesa Dam, where you can cycle, swim, and enjoy a family picnic in a true forest setting.

For some easy shopping and dining, proceed to the Greenbelt Malls in Makati. It's near the Central Business District, and covered walks easily lead you to the malls. The place is also home to a few theaters where you can watch movies with the kids.

Filipinos love music, so it's common to see karaoke ('videoke' to the locals) bars and booths in Manila. Belting out your favorite songs or dancing to one that you've been secretly singing in the shower makes a fun way to bond with family and friends, but if the family is too shy to perform in front of strangers, the private rooms at Music 21 Plaza are the place for you. With five branches in Metro Manila, it's not difficult to find one.