Visiting Makati
Makati is one of the seventeen cities that make up the Metro Manila region, the capital district of the Philippines in Asia. It sits on the island of Luzon, home to over 13 million people. Makati serves as the country's primary financial and economic hub. It is also one of the most densely populated urban areas on the planet, where skyscrapers stand in stark contrast to informal settlements. The city is known for its high-end hotels, nightlife, and luxury shopping, making it a popular choice for Western expats.
The Philippines' Business District
Makati consolidates most of the economic and financial activity for Metro Manila. It is also one of the capital's top spots for tourism and shopping. A major draw is the Green Belt Mall, a sprawling shopping complex that features an urban park and a chapel dating back to 1983 at its center, where many locals go to pray.
Near this hub of retail and leisure, you will find the Ayala Museum, a modern facility with exhibits covering Philippines history from the pre-colonial era to the present. The museum also hosts galleries dedicated to Filipino artists. A short walk away, you can recharge at the Ayala Triangle Garden, a five-acre green space popular for walking and jogging. For more culture, the Yuchengco Museum is a great place to explore local and international design works.
Nightlife and Cosmopolitan Vibe
Makati is the district most frequented by tourists and expats, so the nightlife is active and varied. The area around Burgos Street is a common go-to for restaurants and bars. Keep in mind that this specific area is also known as Manila's red-light district, where sex work is visible.
On weekends, be sure to stop by the Salcedo Market in Makati. It is the perfect place to sample local culinary specialties and browse handmade goods.
When to go
The Philippines is most pleasant to visit between November and March, when temperatures drop slightly and the weather is dry. Avoid the rainy season from June through September. Note that December and January are the peak months for tourism.
How to get there
Makati is conveniently located near Ninoy-Aquino International Airport in Manila. Once you arrive, you can grab a taxi or hop in a jeepney, the most common form of local transport in the Philippines. These vehicles originated from jeeps left behind by the U.S. military after World War II. They have since been refurbished and painted in bright, vibrant colors, often carrying an impressive number of passengers at once.
If you prefer public transit, take the MRT Line 3 to the Ayala station.
Makati is the place where the skyscrapers grow.
Practically all the embassies are gathered in Makati, along with the corporate headquarters.. in short, it is the economic heart of the Philippines.
Not necessarily relaxing because there is a lot of pollution, traffic, and noise.... Worth doing in one day, but don't linger.