How well do you know your city?

Uber's new campaign invites us to check out these underrated spots in Manila.

MANILA, Philippines — A friend of mine once asked woke Twitter for the name of “that coffee (shop) with a percent sign.” She said it’s been popping up on her feed a lot.?

I reflect on this because, like her, most of us look at social media to find out what’s happening in our own city. Whether it’s trying the latest coffee craze (it’s called Arabica, btw, and it’s located in BGC) or discovering the next Siargao, it seems that the easiest way to get people’s attention is to be Instagram-friendly. (Translation: anything that photographs well using a mobile phone with a filter.) It’s no wonder, then, that people end up hyping the same places.

But exploring the city shouldn’t be limited to what’s new and popular. Sometimes, the places worth discovering are those that have been there all along. This is what Uber and Canon want to remind us with their latest campaign, Hidden Cities. By looking at places with low drop-offs and researching about its surrounding areas, Uber and Canon came up with a list of underrated yet culturally significant places in Manila that should be on your summer bucket list.

Besides skipping the usual crowd, a visit to these destinations is a good way to brush up on history, meet interesting people, and learn some fun facts along the way. And yes, it’s also the perfect opportunity to practice your photography skills. Just take it from influencers Kryz Uy, Benj Ramos and Aaron Quinto whom Uber and Canon partnered with to help spread the movement.

Being exposed to different perspectives inspires us even more to see what else is out there. This is why social media, photography and having a guide on how to get to places all play an important role in this movement. You can be a part of that. So round up the gang; it’s time to plan for that quick summer getaway.

The Manila Post Office (Port Area, Manila)

This neoclassical building reminds us of Old Manila. While it was damaged after the World War II, the restoration kept most of the original design, making it stand out in the area. Pro tip: Go during sunset. You can thank us later.

My Mother’s Garden (Pasay City)

It’s the residence of the late National Artist for Architecture Pablo S. Antonio, the atelier of daughter Malu Veloso, and for special occasions, a private dining enclave all rolled into one beautiful property.

Treskul Records and Cafe (Mandaluyong City)

Classic rock, jazz and soul records at affordable prices? It’s best to allot a couple of hours for all the crate digging you’re going to do in this place.

Bahay Nakpil-Bautista (Quiapo, Manila)

You probably remember this house from your history classes as the home of the heroes of the 1896 Revolution. Well-preserved despite the years, it still houses furniture that dates back at least a century. ??

Puerto Real Gardens (Intramuros City)

This hidden and well-preserved garden from 18th-century Intramuros is perfect for anyone who’s looking for a quiet retreat in the middle of a busy city. It’s mostly used as a venue for functions like weddings, so there could be more surprises than you expected on your visit.

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For more details, visit www.uber.com/hidden-cities.