What’s on Manila: Best Things to See, Do, & Eat on Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2024

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in Manila! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Manila’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.

To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Manila to see what’s best in store for the week ahead.

1. Monet & Friends Alive

Experience the magic of French impressionism at Monet & Friends Alive, opening on Jan. 31 (Wed)! Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory adventure at the BGC Arts Center, where the works of Claude Monet and other renowned Impressionist painters such as Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, and Edgar Degas come alive. Get your tickets now via Ticketworld for this limited-season digital spectacular.

2. Japanese Film Festival 2024

The Japanese Film Festival, also known as "EIGASAI," returns with 14 films of free screenings in select cinemas. From Feb. 1 (Thu) to March 3 (Sun), moviegoers can enjoy a diverse range of Japanese movies, including the classic "Voltes V: The Liberation" and the latest installment "Voltes V: Legacy." Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through these captivating films. Participating cinemas include Shangri-la Red Carpet Cinema, UPFI Film Center, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Baguio, SM City Iloilo, and SM City Davao. Admission is free!

3. The Plant Camp 6.0

Calling all plant lovers! The Plant Camp 6.0 is back! Join the event from Feb. 2 (Fri) to Feb. 4 (Mon) at the People's Hall of Quezon Memorial Circle for a three-day event filled with lectures, a bazaar, and an exhibit. Marvel at the featured plants for the table top competition, such as Bilbergia, Hoehenbergia, Tillandsia, Neoregelia, Vriesea, Guzmania, and Alcantarea, and discover a wide range of plant sellers offering a variety of green treasures.

Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in your love for plants and expand your collection!

4. Travel Tour Expo 2024

Mark your calendars for the 31st Travel Tour Expo and the 9th International Travel Trade Expo, happening from Feb. 2 (Fri) to Feb. 4 (Sun) at SMX Convention Center Manila. This year's expo, organized by the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), will feature over 200 exhibitors and 702 booths offering a wide range of travel packages, accommodations, flights, and exclusive discounts. From local destinations like Palawan and Boracay to international hotspots like Korea and Japan, there's something for every traveler.

The event will also showcase cultural performances, food bazaars, raffles, and entertainment numbers. General admission tickets are priced at P85, with a discounted rate of P65 for senior citizens. Secure your tickets now via SM Tickets.

5. Manila Photo Exhibition

GuruShots presents the Manila Photo Exhibition at Modeka Art. From Feb. 4 (Sun) to Feb. 6 (Tue), witness a remarkable collection of over 110 printed works and digital winners from photographers across over 30 countries. You can also join the opening reception on Feb. 3 (Sat) to celebrate and meet fellow photographers! Entrance is free of charge.

6. Destinations 23 Rustic Wonderland Bridal Fair

Get ready for Destinations 23 Rustic Wonderland Bridal Fair, happening on Feb. 3 (Sat) and Feb. 4 (Sun) at Ayala Malls Feliz, and prepare to discover a variety of wedding suppliers and explore stunning floral arrangements, mouthwatering wedding menus, and glamorous venues. This is your opportunity to plan your happily ever after!

Register now to avail free tickets for this exciting event. Don't miss it!

7. Manila Hustle 3x3 Season 2

Get ready for the triumphant return of Manila Hustle 3x3 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. From Feb. 3 (Sat) to Feb. 4 (Sun), witness the ultimate showdown as 16 top-tier teams from seven countries compete in the Women's International Invitational tournament. Experience non-stop action, intense matchups, and the thrill of 24 basketball matches per day. This exciting event is free for everyone; no tickets or registration required!

8. Alpabeto ng Kalikasan Nature Walk

Discover the wonders of Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife at AnK Publishing's first nature walk of the year on Feb. 3 (Sat) with the author of "Alpabeto ng Kalikasan," Anya Santos-Uy! This event offers a unique opportunity to learn about Philippine biodiversity. The two-hour session includes a lecture followed by a guided walk, where you'll explore the urban oasis and encounter fascinating plants and animals. Limited slots are available, so register today to reserve your place!

9. STOP Voice Acting Workshop

Calling all aspiring voice actors! Let the STOP Voice Acting Workshop be your path to mastery. Learn the art of English dubbing and voice acting from industry experts by joining this workshop in person on Feb. 3 (Sat) at CreatiVoices Productions in Makati City.

Register now to secure your spot! Rates start at P500 for face-to-face sessions for CVAP Graduates, while non-graduates can avail of the on-site workshop for P2,500. Online sessions are also available!

10. Discover SMU Masters Roadshow

Are you considering a career shift or looking to enhance your skills? Join the Discover SMU Masters Roadshow in Manila on Feb. 3 (Sat) at Fairmont Makati. Hosted by Singapore Management University (SMU), this event offers a platform to explore 17 distinctive postgraduate programs designed to prepare you for the jobs of the future.

The roadshow features a range of activities, including presentations on the transformative potential of SMU Masters programs, alumni sharing their post-Masters experiences, discussions on career pivots, and personalized admissions consultations. Reserve your seat now and register on the event page.