Fun Classes for Expats Living in Manila
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Manila by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
Manila, a bustling hub for expats and digital nomads, offers a vibrant cultural scene with a plethora of classes to enrich your stay. Whether you're looking to dive into the local cuisine, pick up some Tagalog, or unleash your inner artist, there's a class for you. Engaging in these activities is not only a fantastic way to learn new skills but also an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow expats and locals alike. Here's a curated list of classes in Manila that are perfect for digital nomads and expats looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and community.
Center for Asian Culinary Studies
Type of Class(es): Filipino Cooking Classes
Location: 455 P. Guevarra St., San Juan, Metro Manila
At the Center for Asian Culinary Studies, expats can learn the art of Filipino cooking from renowned chefs. The classes cater to all levels and include hands-on experience in preparing traditional dishes. It's a delicious way to understand the local culture and cuisine.
Manila Wine Tasting Club
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Various upscale locations around Manila
The Manila Wine Tasting Club offers a sophisticated experience for expats to learn about and enjoy wines from around the world. The classes are conducted in English and are a great way to meet other wine enthusiasts in the city.
Pineapple Lab
Type of Class(es): Art Workshops and Performances
Location: 6053 R. Palma St., Barangay Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila
Pineapple Lab is a creative hub that offers a variety of art workshops, including painting and performance arts. These classes are designed to be accessible to non-Tagalog speakers and provide a platform for creative expression and cultural exchange.
Language Immersion Manila
Type of Class(es): Tagalog Language Courses
Location: Various locations in Manila
Language Immersion Manila provides Tagalog language courses tailored for expats and digital nomads. With a focus on conversational skills, these classes will help you navigate the local scene and connect with the community.
Manila Cooking Classes
Type of Class(es): Traditional and Modern Filipino Cooking
Location: Private kitchen in Makati, Metro Manila
Manila Cooking Classes offer an intimate culinary experience where you can learn the secrets of Filipino cooking. The classes are small and taught in English, making it easy for expats to follow along and enjoy the process.
Art Association of the Philippines
Type of Class(es): Painting and Sculpture Workshops
Location: 1739 Maria Orosa St., Malate, Manila
The Art Association of the Philippines conducts workshops in various art forms, including painting and sculpture. These workshops are a great way to explore your artistic side while meeting fellow art enthusiasts.
Philippine Barista & Coffee Academy
Type of Class(es): Coffee Making and Barista Skills
Location: 113 Don A. Roces Avenue, Quezon City, Metro Manila
For coffee lovers, the Philippine Barista & Coffee Academy offers classes on coffee making and barista skills. Learn the craft of coffee in English and enjoy the chance to make the perfect cup.
Yuchengco Museum
Type of Class(es): Art History and Appreciation Workshops
Location: RCBC Plaza, Corner Ayala and Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenues, Makati, Metro Manila
The Yuchengco Museum hosts workshops on art history and appreciation, providing insights into Philippine art and culture. These workshops are conducted in English and are a great way to understand the local art scene.
Manila Improv School
Type of Class(es): Improvisational Theater Workshops
Location: Various locations in Metro Manila
Manila Improv School offers workshops in improvisational theater, a fun and interactive way to improve communication skills and creativity. The workshops are in English and cater to all levels of experience.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
First Published: Jul 07, 2024