Everyone knows Manila. Some people can probably even find it on a map. But not many people have been there. The capital of the Philippines is a densely populated, sometimes dangerous place. While there is lots to do, especially if you are interested in shopping and sightseeing, it seems like Manila's tourist industry lives in the shadows of other Southeast Asian cities. Many visitors who are coming to the Philippines see Manila as a stop-off point before they head to the beach or outer islands.

This year, Manila is focusing an reinvigorating its tourist trade. Business is set to boom:

The Mall of Asia is a huge shopping venue located near the already popular San Miguel by the Bay entertainment promenade. There is a new Science Discovery Center, which includes a planetarium, in the mall.

Developers have their sights set on upscale tourists with Bagong Nayong Pilipino Manila Bay Integrated City, which is slated to open in 2010. The planned city will have hotels, malls, casinos, and a theme park.

Transportation can be tricky in Manila. To solve that Wow Manila Sakay Na! minivans provide hourly service between 15 of Manila's most popular historic sites. For a little more than $10, tourists can get a day pass to use the service.

Manila is a huge city. While is might lack the charms of other Southeast Asian metropolises, it is doing its part to make itself into a viable choice for tourists interested in visiting the region's biggest cities.