Domestic Tourism Starts in Old Manila with a KIA Picanto - Motourismo Ph

KIA Picanto on cobble-stoned streets of Intramuros, Manila.

Many people would travel far and wide just to learn about history, enrich their cultural side, get close to nature, or even explore culinary delights. Yet, did you know that Metro Manila has a wealth of these attractions for those who are willing to explore and discover?

One does not have to go out of the city in order to learn about our nation’s colorful past. One does not need to venture too far as well to immerse in our country’s rich cultural heritage. Despite being an urban jungle, there are pockets of land that bring you close to nature along with some very interesting places to satisfy those taste buds.

Where can these be found?

1.Traveling back in time: Intramuros, the Walled City, along with Fort Santiago are two of the most visited places when one wants to learn about Filipino history. There is also the famed San Agustin Church run by the Agustinian friars.

2. Museum tours: You don’t need to go to New York’s Metropolitan Museum to get your fill of culture and the arts. Simply visit the likes of the National Museum or Art In Island. Those that want to enrich their knowledge of science might want to check out the Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. There is also the Dessert Museum—a unique peek into anything that satisfies one’s sweet tooth.

3. Get close to nature: You don’t need to drive too far to commune with nature. Simply head over to the La Mesa Eco Park and take in the fresh air amid a tree-lined backdrop.

4. Tickle your palette: While there are a slew of eateries and restaurants all over the Metro serving a global mix of international cuisine, Binondo Food Crawl and Poblacion in Makati by night are two of the most interesting to date. The former, as the name suggests, can be found in Chinatown and offers some of the best Chinese dishes out there. The latter, on the other hand, caters to millennials and treats them to dishes that one would not normally find in at the neighborhood mall.

Just like these places, the Kia Picanto also holds a few surprises. For one, its compact dimensions make it the ideal vehicle to explore these cultural, historical, and nature-rich places located in various parts of Metro Manila. This little runabout is powered by either a 1.0-liter, 67ps at 5,500rpm and 95Nm at 3,750rpm motor or a more potent 1.2-liter, 84hp at 6,000rpm and 122Nm at 4,000rpm mill. Both Kappa engines with Dual CVVT technology can be had in either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

While it may be a small hatchback, the Kia Picanto does not scrimp on features. It’s got a 7-inch Touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity that lets one stay in touch as one goes about touring the Metro. Steering wheel-mounted multifunction controls allow full power without taking one’s hands off the wheel.

Plus, there is the added security of a Rearview Camera and Antilock Braking system.  It is likewise backed by Kia’s Promise to Care with a 5-year/160,000km warranty and 24/7 Roadside Assistance for total peace of mind. And of course, you’ve got the backing of a multi-awarded car brand that is now handled by AC Motors, the Ayala-owned motoring arm.

KIA Picanto is compact, yet well-equipped with modern features.

The Kia Picanto is available in four variants with prices as follows:

• 1.0 LX MT: P590,000

• 1.0 LX AT: P635,000

• 1.2 EX MT: P700,000

• 1.2 EX AT: P745,000

For more information on the Kia Picanto, check out Kia Philippines’ website  by logging on to www.kia.com/ph  or visit Facebook and Instagram.