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Car Checks Before A Long Journey: Road Trip Ready Checklist

Car Checks Before A Long Journey: Road Trip Ready Checklist

Jun 5, 2024

Last Updated on: Sep 23, 2026

Planning a long road trip? Then you might want to start with car checks before a long journey.

Having the right vehicle for long distances can make your road trip much easier.

Before you start your road trip, check that your vehicle is in the best condition. Check that your tires have adequate pressure.

At the same time, you should set aside time to check your vehicle’s essential components.

This helps you manage long, tiring road journeys with ease. This helps prevent breakdowns and delays.

You also lose money when your car breaks down mid-way through your road trip because of repairs. Simple car checks with a microfibre towel and other cleaning supplies can make a world of difference.

Preparing and caring for your vehicle before a long road trip helps keep you safe.

You want to reach your destination on time and safely, especially if you are traveling with your loved ones.

This article provides the key inspections to perform on your vehicle before any long-distance trip.

Key inspections before a long journey include checking fluid levels and assessing tire condition. They also include checking tread depth and doing general maintenance checks for a smooth road trip.

Inspect and Maintain Fluids

Here is how you inspect and maintain fluids before embarking on your long journey. These pre-trip car checks before a long journey help ensure a worry-free road trip for you.

Check Engine Oil Level and Quality

Start by checking your engine oil level and quality before your long journey.

Locate the dipstick and remove it while the engine is cool. Then, wipe the dipstick with a rag or cloth before reinserting it. After a minute, again, pull out the dipstick to check the oil level.

For a quality ride, your dipstick should show an oil level between the minimum and maximum marks. If the oil level is below the minimum, then you will need to top up with the recommended oil type.

Follow the vehicle manual to top up with the recommended oil type and quantity.

Also, check the oil’s color and consistency, and look for a golden to light brown color.

These colors indicate your oil is fresh. As your engine oil ages, it gets darker, which signals degraded oil quality and the need for a change.

Consider an oil change to keep your engine lubricated and performing smoothly during your trip, while doing car checks before a long journey.

Check Coolant/Radiator Fluid Level and Condition

One key car check before a long journey is to check the level and condition of the coolant and radiator fluid.

The trip may be long, and you may spend a lot of time in your vehicle. In that case, you must ensure the coolant and radiator are working properly. See that they are in perfect condition.

Coolant, or antifreeze, is an essential component in your car that controls engine temperature.

They help your car function properly in freezing temperatures. Check your coolant when your engine is cool. Check the fluid level against the minimum and maximum markings, as you would with engine oil.

You can top up with a premixed coolant solution if you are traveling to a colder region. Just follow the manufacturer’s recommended coolant type and mixture ratio.

Also, check the coolant’s color and clarity to ensure it’s fresh. Colors should be bright or light green. Discolored, rusty, or opaque coolant indicates degradation.

So, consider a coolant flush service to replace the old fluid. This ensures efficient heat transfer during your journey.

Check Brake Fluid Level and Condition

Among essential pre-trip checks, maintaining the proper brake fluid level is crucial.

Proper brake fluid levels ensure optimum brake performance, which is essential on long journeys.

You can also check your vehicle’s fluid levels to ensure they’re in good condition. You could do this by locating the brake fluid reservoir. You can find this reservoir by the “BRAKE” symbol on top of it. Then, check the color and clarity of the brake fluid.

Is your car’s brake fluid level between the minimum and maximum markings? This indicates that your brake fluid is in proper condition. This is why car checks before a long journey are a must!

Change your brake fluid if it has turned dark.

Darker, opaque brake fluid indicates the fluid is no longer in the best condition. It can hamper brake function.

Replace degraded brake fluid with fresh brake fluid suited to your vehicle’s needs. This ensures smooth braking on long road trips.

car checks before a long journey: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level and Condition

The next car check before a long journey is the power steering fluid level and condition. This ensures the power steering is in top condition and helps prevent mishaps while turning and parking.

Also, take a close look at the car’s steering. It has a steering wheel symbol.

Now check the fluid levels. It should be between the minimum and maximum markings.

Now check the color of the steering fluid. It helps you understand whether the steering fluid is in good condition.

If the fluid is reddish or pinkish, it’s in good condition and suitable for longer distances. On the other hand, a dark or opaque color indicates contaminated fluid. It’s time to change the fluid.

You can also opt for a professional power steering fluid flush service to replace the old fluid and improve steering performance.

Check Transmission Fluid Level And Condition

Check the transmission fluid level to see whether your vehicle has an automatic transmission.

At the same time, you must consult the vehicle’s manual and follow the correct procedure. This specific procedure for checking the transmission fluid level is effective.

However, you generally need to keep the engine running and the transmission in a specific gear. Then check the transmission fluid level and condition.

Once you identify the dipstick, check the fluid level between the minimum and maximum markings.

At the same time, check the color and clarity. In optimum condition, transmission fluid should appear reddish or pinkish.

Dark fluid colors may indicate degradation or contamination.

If the fluid appears compromised, consider a transmission fluid flush to change it immediately.

Remember, smooth gear shifting during your trip determines the safety and makes longer routes easier for the driver.

Top Up Or Flush Fluids As Needed

After inspecting all the critical fluid levels and conditions, top up any low fluids with the recommended types and quantities. Follow the specifications in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

If you notice the fluids are contaminated, it’s a sign they need replacing. Consider a flush service to replace the old fluid for best performance.

Remember, the health and condition of your vehicle’s fluids ensure optimal performance.

It also indicates your vehicle’s safety and longevity, especially during long journeys.

By addressing fluid issues, you can reduce the risk of component failures or breakdowns. It can also help you enjoy a smooth, reliable driving experience.

Check And Replace Tires

Consider tire condition, as it is the most important component for your vehicle’s mobility.

Inspect Tire Tread Depth And Condition

Adequate tire tread depth is key to maintaining proper traction and safety on the road. This is especially important on long routes.

The minimum depth required for all cars in Europe in general and the UK in particular is 1.6mm across three-quarters of the tire.

However, experts advise replacing tires when the tread depth reaches around 3mm.

Conduct the 20p Test: First, insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves of your tires. Can you see the coin’s outer edge? This indicates that it’s time to replace the tire. Or you can say it has already reached the legal minimum tread depth.
Secondly, check for Indicators of Tread Wear. Many tires have tread-wear indicators, such as raised bars or groove markings. However, the right approach is to replace the tire once it reaches the legal tread depth. This is equally important for car checks before a long journey.
Thirdly, use a Tread Depth Gauge: Invest in a tread depth gauge. This specialized tool measures the depth of individual tread grooves accurately. These gauges provide the most precise readings. They also help you know when it’s time to replace the tire.

Beyond tread depth, check your tires for signs of damage, such as bulges, cuts, or uneven wear patterns.

These issues can compromise tire integrity and increase the risk of blowouts or other problems during your journey.

Car checks before a long journey: Check Tire Air Pressure

Properly inflated tires enhance efficiency. They also improve handling, stability, and overall safety.

You must check tire pressure regularly. This is essential, especially when you are embarking on a long journey.

Tire Pressure Check Steps

1. First, go through the manual of the vehicle’s owner or the sticker on the driver’s door jamb. There, you will find the correct tire pressure recommendation.

2. Now, make use of a tire pressure gauge of the highest quality. It helps to measure the pressure of the tyre when they are cold (after at least 3-4 hours of non-driving).

3. Press the gauge firmly by removing the valve stem cap from the valve stem. This helps you get the most accurate reading.

4. Adjust the pressure of the tyre, either by inflating it with an air compressor or deflating it with a metal pin on the valve stem.

5. After you have made the required adjustments with air pressure, recheck the tire pressure to ensure it’s within the recommended range.

6. Finally, don’t forget to have a look and then adjust the tyre’s pressure as well.

Please keep in mind that maintaining tire pressure is one step to enhance safety.

It also improves fuel efficiency and extends your tires’ lifespan.

Rotate Tires if Due

Tire rotation is one key maintenance practice that helps achieve even wear across all four tires.

Tires wear differently depending on their positions. Front tires wear faster because they must withstand additional steering and braking forces.

By rotating the tires at the recommended intervals (typically every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or as specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual), you can distribute the tire wear more evenly.

Ultimately, this helps attain the extended overall life of your tires and maintain optimal handling and stability.

Replace Tires If Needed

If your tires are excessively worn or have reached the legal minimum tread depth, replace them. This is a must before you start your long journey.

Driving on bald or severely worn tires is dangerous and can be life-threatening. Also, if you are caught on the highway, it will result in hefty fines and potential license penalties.

When replacing them, invest in high-quality, reputable brands that offer superior performance and longer life.

You can also replace all four tires one at a time to ensure consistent handling and traction.

With these guidelines, you can regularly inspect and maintain your tires for a safe, enjoyable journey. You can also reduce the risk of breakdowns or accidents caused by tire-related issues.

Perform General Maintenance Checks

Here are some important points to consider when discussing general maintenance checks. Let’s review them all here.

Check Brake Pads and Replace if Needed

Take a thorough look at your vehicle’s brakes and replace them if needed. They’re a key part of a safe, secure journey.

So, check the brake pads and replace them if needed before you start a new journey. Here’s what you need to do:

Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Also, look at the brake pads through the wheel. You must be able to see them pressing against the brake disc.
Check the thickness of the brake pad material. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the brake pads when the friction material is reduced to approximately 3mm or less.
Look for signs of uneven wear, and closely inspect the brake pads for cracks.
Replace brake pads if they look excessively worn or damaged.

Additionally, be attentive to any warning signs that may indicate worn brake pads, such as:

A high-pitched screeching or grinding noise when applying the brakes could indicate that the brake pad wear indicator is contacting the brake disc.
Increased brake pedal travel or a “spongy” feeling when pressing the brake pedal, which could signify that the brake pads need replacement.

However, you may notice any of these warning signs if the brake pad material is worn down to the recommended replacement level. So, replace the brake pads before embarking on your long journey.

Inspect and Replace Air Filters (Engine and Cabin)

Clean air filters are essential for optimal engine performance and cabin air quality. Before your trip, inspect and replace the engine and cabin air filters as needed.

Engine Air Filter:
- Locate the engine air filter housing, typically a rectangular box near the engine compartment.
- Open the housing and remove the air filter.
- Hold the filter up to a light source and check for excessive dirt or clogging.
- If the filter appears excessively dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one.
Cabin Air Filter:
- Consult your owner’s manual to locate the cabin air filter, which is usually behind the glove compartment or under the dashboard.
- Remove the old cabin air filter and inspect it for dirt, debris, or discoloration.
- If the cabin air filter appears dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one.

Replacing both the engine and cabin air filters can improve fuel efficiency, engine performance, and cabin air quality. Alongside, it also ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Check Lights (Headlights, Taillights, Turn Signals)

Lights are essential components that determine your vehicle’s safety.

They provide peace of mind and help make journeys more comfortable. So, before your trip, perform a thorough check of all exterior lights, including:

Headlights:
- First, turn on the vehicle lights. Then walk around the vehicle. This technique ensures that the lights are working properly.
- Check for cracks in the lights. Also, look for moisture buildup or discoloration of the headlight lenses.
Taillights:
- If you have a friend or acquaintance, ask them to stand behind the vehicle. At this point, you can press the brake pedal to check that the lights are functioning properly.
- Also, check the reverse lights by engaging the reverse gear.
Turn Signals:
- Check the turn signals first. Then walk around the vehicle. See if the front and rear turn signal lights are working properly.
- Are your vehicle’s lights blinking rapidly? The bulbs might have burnt out.
Other Lights:
- Have you thoroughly checked your car’s license plate lights, side marker lights, and other exterior lights?

Replace the malfunctioning or burnt-out bulbs promptly. This ensures optimal visibility and ultimate compliance with legal requirements.

Inspect Belts, Hoses And Replace if Needed

Belts and hoses in your vehicle ensure the cooling system and engine function properly.

Include these components in your inspection list. Do not compromise on safety; replace them if necessary.

Belts:
- Pinpoint the serpentine belt(s) in your engine compartment.
- Look for cracking, fraying, or excessive wear.
- Apply moderate pressure to check the belt’s tension. Do it with your finger. The belt should deflect only a little, not much.
- Replace belts with wear and tear and improper tension.
Hoses:
- Inspect all coolant hoses, including the radiator hose, heater hoses, and any other visible hoses in the engine compartment.
- Look for signs of leakage, cracks, bulges, or any deterioration.
- Gently squeeze the hoses. This lets you check for internal degradation. Soft or spongy areas indicate the problem.
- Replace the worn-out hoses immediately.

Replacing the hoses and worn belts can stop costly repairs and sudden breakdowns during your journey. Ultimately, you can enjoy a reliable driving experience.

Sibashree Bhattacharya

Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

Closest Beach To Knoxville TN: Know The Best Getaways

BY Sibashree Sep 20, 2023

What is the closest beach to Knoxville TN? No, it does not. For the longest time, I have been planning a long beach holiday. But something else always turns up and ruins the plan. The kids have exams, and we have family commitments. So, our beach vacation was always limited to Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake. However, I had done my research on the closest beach to me, and this time, we had a long weekend. So our road led to Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to Knoxville, TN. That said, many beaches are near Knoxville, TN. For example, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is one of the most popular ocean beaches near Tennessee. We also have Folly Beach in South Carolina and Oak Island in North Carolina. In today’s Tour and Travel blog, we will talk about the beaches near Knoxville, TN, and explain why they're perfect for the ultimate Tennessee beach vacation. What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville, Tennessee? Our journey to the closest beaches to Knoxville, TN, starts with Sullivan’s Island, as promised. However, before taking you on a tour of these beaches, I wanted to share the best time to visit the closest beach to Knoxville, TN. Knoxville primarily has two tourist seasons. You can visit the closest beach to Knoxville, TN, between March and June and September and November. So, let’s begin the ultimate Knoxville beach journey. Here we go! 1. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 380.4 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours I was looking for ocean beaches within 6 hours of me, and I found Sullivan’s Island. It is a barrier island covering about 8.91 km². Further, Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to TN, stands out with its local history. It has Fort Moultrie, built in 1776, which still tells the story of how it protected the city from cannonball attacks by warships. Moreover, Sullivan’s Island is important in literary history. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie between November 1827 and December 1828. 2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 412 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 46 Minutes Sitting in Knoxville, I was looking for beaches within 7 hours of me. I found Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. Myrtle Beach is nothing short of a fantasy island, and it was once the hub of pirates. Further, Myrtle Beach is associated with the Indigenous people and roaming ghosts. A visit to Myrtle Beach is incomplete without exploring the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. Also, spend time at Myrtle Beach State Park and the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum. 3. Folly Beach, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 35 Minutes Folly Beach, one of the closest beaches to Knoxville, is the ultimate destination to stay, eat, play. and explore! Further, life on Folly Beach revolves around outdoor activities. You can have a casual stroll on the beach or do more adventurous activities like surfing, boating, kayaking, and biking. Folly Beach offers the perfect beach vacation. Moreover, Folly Beach is a wonderful melting pot of modern entertainment and wildlife. You can attend the Annual Folly Festivals and enjoy birdwatching and wildlife. Blu Restaurant and Bar, Bert's Market, and Bounty Bar are some popular places to eat on Folly Beach. 4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 396.5 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes Kiawah Island, with a majority of marshland, is 6 hours and 16 minutes by car from Knoxville. To add to the adventure, the beach is often used for native wildlife watching! Several locations across the beach are perfect for wildlife spotting! Two popular spots for this are Canvasback Duck Pond and Marsh Island Park. Plus, Kiawah has two scenic observation towers that offer a 360-degree view of the sea and land! If you are a hiker or like to bike, this beach is perfect! They have natural paths for these types of adventures. For accommodation, you can rent a private 2nd-story deck to enjoy stunning ocean views. There is one popular restaurant called Jasmine Porch where you can splurge on good food, especially the Low-country favourites such as Shrimp and grits, She-crab bisque, Fresh seafood, Po’boys, Burgers! 5. Isle Of Palms, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes There is a playground for children, so this is the perfect destination if you have kids. There is also a picnic area, so if you plan to spend the whole day out, you can go to this beach. For accommodation, there is a single-family cottage which is well decorated! Food is another important part of the vacation, so I suggest the Sea Biscuit Cafe! Try out the seafood omelettes, shrimp, and gravy because these are the low-country options. 6. Hilton Head, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 411 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 32 Minutes You have to visit this beach for the best sunsets across the water! Just 6 hours and 26 minutes from Knoxville, this coastal paradise is worth a visit. If you plan to stay the night, you can book a resort rental. You can enjoy the outdoor and indoor pool, a tiki bar, etc. You must try the coastal-area food, especially crab cakes, sandwiches, shrimp, grits, and salads. 7. Oak Island, North Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 441.5 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours 14 Minutes If you are looking for a scenic beach, Oak Island is the place to visit for all adventurous activities. Water sports are quite famous here. You can also see Fort Caswell, used in the 1800s and 1900s. This is one of the beaches near Knoxville, TN! It takes 7 hours and 8 minutes to reach the beach, and you can visit the island lighthouse, which sits right beside the fort. Oak Island Nature Centre offers a perfect walk at the beach, so if you are a nature lover, you know where to go! For outdoor adventures, kayaking is a great option. Many family homes and rentals are a short distance from March Beach, offering incredible views across the water. If you visit the beach, you must try scrumptious food items such as steak, chicken, and pasta, along with delicious seafood. 8. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 442 Miles The beach is a little farther from Knoxville, TN, taking about 7 hours and 23 minutes. Wilmington has three beaches: Kure, Carolina, and Wrightsville. All three are among the best beaches near Knoxville. Beyond common activities like shopping and dining, you can also go on catamaran cruises, visit the History Museum, and attend fairs and seasonal festivals. The Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center organizes educational programs and treasure hunts for children. For food, you will find some of the best cheeseburgers at this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! If you are a picky eater, you will find various options, from steaks to seafood platters. 9. Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN Distance from Knoxville: 449.5 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours 30 Minutes Kure Beach is beautiful, and the North Carolina Aquarium is located at Fort Fisher. Key features include a nature play area, an adventure reef, and touch tanks. This beach is 7 hours and 31 minutes away. Besides the beach, you can also visit places such as the Civil War Museum, the Fort Fisher State Site, beach cruises, a dog park, and a playground in front of the beach. You cannot miss the food such as burgers, sandwiches, seafood and pasta! I am already drooling! 10. Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN Distance from Knoxville: 434 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours The beach is 6 hours and 55 minutes by road from Knoxville. Some of the place’s main attractions are the restaurants and the quaint little shops. The beach is popular with people looking for a relaxing haunt near Tennessee. It is the closest beach to Tennessee! It is a low-key beach situated just outside of Savanah! Beyond relaxing on the beach, you can also enjoy amenities in Savanah. This includes museums, historic architecture, upscale shops, ghost tours, and other attractions perfect for family outings. Beautiful rentals are close to the beach and a 1-minute distance from where you can enjoy some stunning visuals. The food available in and around the place is quite popular! One such restaurant near the waterfront is Bubba Gumbo. The seafood Gumbo is their signature dish! You can also order fried fish, jambalaya, burgers, and crab cakes. They also popularly serve shrimp. 11. Simon’s Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN Distance from Knoxville: 491.2 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours 32 Minutes The beach is 7 hours and 42 minutes from Knoxville, TN! The beach Oasis is a perfect place to relax, with amenities that make life easier. The Neptune Park Fun Zone offers family attractions. You can also find a store to rent water-sports accessories, restaurants, and several shops that offer good food and equipment for the beach vacation, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and more. There is also a family beach rental with a private swimming pool. The rental can host a family and is pretty close to the lighthouse. You cannot miss the delicious food available on this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! Once the restaurant opens, Porch will offer fried catfish, shrimp, and fried chicken. Read Also: Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina – Travel Guide Closest Beach To Nashville – Top 10 Beaches You Can Visit Top 10 Beaches In Gloucester In Massachusetts – Travel Guide The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World!

Accommodation At A 5-Star Level: What Are You Missing Out On?

BY Sibashree Aug 16, 2023

People often pass by five-star establishments on vacation and never think, "This could be the right kind of accommodation for me." They wrongly assume it is outside their budget. So they end up with a less enjoyable holiday experience because of where they stay. What many people don’t realize is that when you stay in five-star accommodation, you get to experience something you have never tried before. In many cases, you end up saving money because of the amenities offered. There are a number of luxury 5-star resorts in the Maldives you really need to check out this year. Maybe it’s time to take your holiday experience to the next level and enjoy the benefits of staying in this kind of accommodation. You may also need to consider that you haven’t traveled in some time because of the pandemic. So there is a lot of money burning a hole in your pocket that needs to be spent. What To Expect From A Luxury Resort: The Ultimate Five-Star Experience Planning your yearly vacation is all about escaping the daily grind and treating yourself to the finest things in life. For an unforgettable getaway, booking a luxury stay can change everything. High-end destinations go above and beyond standard accommodations, anticipating your every need. From stunning visual design to unmatched personal care, a top-quality resort offers much more than a typical holiday. Appearance is everything - We all know that providing the best first impression every single time is incredibly important in business and in our day-to-day social lives. This is why these resorts take first impressions very seriously, and you will notice beautiful design from the reception area, where you are greeted with a cocktail, to the many areas around the resort. Exceptional service is provided - The service that you receive at a luxury resort is something that you have never experienced before. The staff is highly qualified to provide you with personal care. You'll likely receive a welcome drink on arrival and maybe even a complimentary bottle of wine in your room. Someone will always be nearby to provide any food and beverages you and your family might want. They provide amazing beds - Part of going on your yearly vacation away from your job is relaxing and getting the best night’s sleep you’ve ever had. These resorts invest heavily in their beds, and many guests have said they feel like they're sleeping on a cloud. You may find it difficult to pull yourself out of bed the following morning. This is because it is so comfortable, and when you do, you get to enjoy a delicious coconut drink. Every item you could possibly need will be there for you, and all resorts come with free Wi-Fi throughout the grounds and big-screen TVs in the rooms to keep the kids happy. All the toiletries you need in the bathroom will already be there, and you'll have plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy. A top-quality resort offers much more than a five-star experience.Read Also:Why A Hotel Is The Right Choice For Your AccommodationFind Your Dream Membership With A Cost-Saving DVC ResaleThis Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do!

Read All About Things to Do in Manila!

BY Mashum Mar 29, 2025

With the beautiful Spanish culture spread across Manila, there are a lot of places to visit. There are a lot of things to do in Manila which I will highlight in this blog so that you can plan your trip accordingly. Starting from contemporary museums to art scene, the place is the home of the oldest Chinatown across the world. Let me share with you several elements that will help you explore the place, both the old and the new. I think Manila is one of the best places to visit in February especially because the weather is dry and pleasant. You can easily explore the city during this time. Read All About Things to Do in Manila! If you are wondering about the things to do in Manila, let me share with you some of the coolest places to visit. The nightlife is good here, but I am more of a museum and art scene girlie. It is the home of several parks and museums that will express history to you. Several elements will make you feel that you have come to a previous era. Additionally, several places offer entertainment and fun to people of all ages. Rizal Park A beautiful park, open from Monday to Sunday. It is mostly open from 5 am to 10 am and 11 am to 8 pm. When you visit the park, entry is completely free. There are several gardens, laws, and other outdoor events organized across the 57-hectare park. There is also a statue of hero Jose Rizal, commemorating him, and the name of the park is given. The hero has contributed to the wellbeing of the city hence, you get to see a lot of him and his commemoration in and around the city and places to visit. There are a lot of places where you can go shopping once you explore the city. Henceforth, if you are traveling alone, carry the best travel credit card you possess. Fort Santiago It is a landmark in Manila which is open from Monday to Sunday, from 8 am to 11 pm. The place is a defensive fortress which has a museum exhibiting many arts and sculptures. The national hero, Jose Rizal is commemorated through the exhibits of the museum. In 1571, the Spanish governor and navigator, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi built the castle or the citadel. The city of Manila was newly established by then and is currently one of the oldest fortifications. National Museum of Fine Arts A massive museum, the place is a collection of fine art, botany, natural history and archaeology related to Filipino culture. The museum is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm. As the home of 29 galleries and exhibitions in the hallway, it comprises national artists and Filipo masters of the 19th century. San Agustin Church A beautiful place to visit, this historic place was constructed in the 16th century. The San Agustin Church is open from Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm. The ceilings are vaulted while the church exhibits detailed frescoes. It is a Roman Catholic church which is located in the intricate walled city of Intramuros in Manila. The church functions under the auspices of the Order of Saint Augustine. Furthermore, when you visit you get to see Baroque art in the church. Manila Ocean Park More of an aquarium if you ask me, the Manila Ocean Park is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The theme park is owned by China Oceanis Philippines Inc. and it has evolved into the perfect holiday destination for tourists. It is an aquatic theme park which you will have both fun and knowledge when you check it out. Additionally, it is a perfect place for you, if you are traveling with your kids. It is one of the best places to travel with kids. It is also an educational facility that features live shows, an oceanarium, and hands-on activities. There are all-star Bird shows, Sea lion shows and many more giving you the perfect experience and offering you the thrill of the ocean. Intramuros The meaning of the term, Intramuros, is the “Walled City” which is the oldest district in Manila. It looks like a fortified city which was one of the most important places for Spanish governor during earlier times of colonial times. If you are a lover of history, this is the place for you. The culture of the place has been heavily influenced by the colonial rule and the impact it has on ordinary people. Paco Park An urban park which offers you serenity when you visit it between 6 am to 5 pm from Monday to Sunday. The park has been developed on a cemetery site which is walled of course. There are shaded paths for people to walk along with areas dedicated for gardens. The cemetery is under the maintenance of municipality, and it was built by the Dominicans. During the Spanish colonial period, it was built and filled within it are interred remains of city figures. Ayala Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DGpqNWWTrLn/?img_index=4 Another amazing museum that you must visit if you are going on a trip to Manila is Ayala Museum. It is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The museum has a modern touch exhibiting Filipino archeological exhibits. Starting from history to modern and cultural artifacts and exhibits are available here. There is also a research library that is quite important for you if you are writing a research paper on the history of Spanish colonial period. The place is run by the Ayala Foundation privately. It houses several ethnographic, archaeological and cultural exhibits and art. You will be fascinated to know that the place exhibits the Surigao treasure of the indigenous tribe? Arroceros Forest Park Another urban park that you must visit is Arroceros Forest Park as things to do in Manila. There are a wide variety of plants and trees in the park along with a riverside walkway and a fishpond! A perfect combination of nature and modern practices will enhance your overall experience. The park is open for you to visit from Sunday to Monday from 8 am to 5 pm. The lush green forest is filled with greenery. Did you know this place is also known as “Last Lung of Manila”? Spread across 2.2 hectares, the park is a home of many flora and fauna species. Casa Manila The Casa Manila is a house that now serves as a museum which is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm. The house was built in the 1850s and is not restored to exhibit art, architecture, and colonial furniture of the Spanish colonial rule. It is often called the living museum which features the way a well to do affluent Filipino family will live. The lifestyle of this family is depicted through the arrangements of furniture, art and architecture. The colonization had severely impacted Manila and this is how we can see when we enter the museum. It is a must-do list of things to do in Manila. Wrapping Up! In conclusion, now that you have gone through the things to do in Manila, I am sure you are already planning on what to do. When you visit the place, I am sure you will experience the ancient practices and instances of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines. Comment below on which place is your favorite to visit when you to Manila. You also need to share with us if you think we have missed something on the things to-do list. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.

Car Checks Before A Long Journey: Road Trip Ready Checklist

Inspect and Maintain Fluids

Check Engine Oil Level and Quality

Check Coolant/Radiator Fluid Level and Condition

Check Brake Fluid Level and Condition

car checks before a long journey: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level and Condition

Check Transmission Fluid Level And Condition

Top Up Or Flush Fluids As Needed

Check And Replace Tires

Inspect Tire Tread Depth And Condition

Car checks before a long journey: Check Tire Air Pressure

Rotate Tires if Due

Replace Tires If Needed

Perform General Maintenance Checks

Check Brake Pads and Replace if Needed

Inspect and Replace Air Filters (Engine and Cabin)

Check Lights (Headlights, Taillights, Turn Signals)

Inspect Belts, Hoses And Replace if Needed

Sibashree Bhattacharya

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