Area code: (62)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TRIVIA Zamboanga is known as the Latin City because of its unique Spanish heritage that is most evident in the local dialect, Chavacano. Zamboanga is also known for flowers. The Malays called it Jambangan or “pot of flowers”
TOUCHDOWN From the airport, take a jeepney (PHP7) or tricycle (PHP20–25) to the pueblo (city) as there are only a few taxis. Plissap Rent-A-Car charges a minimum of PHP150
BY DAY Visit Yakan Weaving Village. Originally from Basilan, the Yakan are an indigenous tribe that are said to be the finest weavers of handwoven cloth in the country
BY NIGHT For a taste of Zamboanga’s nightlife, visit Catribu along Buenavista Street. The complex has everything you need for a fun night out: a food complex, resto-bar, and a disco
SLEEP Lantaka Hotel is one of the city’s establishment hotels, with a vintage touch and a relaxed feel. It’s central yet has views of the sea. You can walk to most city sights
LOCAL LIFE
Prime Asprer
sales manager
Best breakfast
Try satti, a Muslim delicacy, which is perfect for breakfast. It is not the same as satay
Best night out
For serious partying, pop into the Catribu Complex or Latitude
Best dinner
Enjoy the food and the atmosphere at Mano Mano in Greenfields
Best buys
Apollo chocolate wafers and other barter goods at Canelar Barter Trading Center
Best souvenirs
Yakan woven cloth and linens from the Yakan weaving village — they are beautiful
Must-do experience
Watch the sunset at Cawa-Cawa along RT Lim Blvd
Must-learn…
“Buenas dias!” (Good morning) and “Gracias!” (Thank you)
Insider’s tip
Brush up on your Spanish! It’s the basis of the Chavacano dialect
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