Makati City is best known as the Central Business District (CBD) of Metro Manila. What comes to mind when in Metro Manila is the warm hospitality and the happy faces of everyone you would meet in any of its cities. But the city that stands out, and where most expatriates settle down and have permanently relocated, is Makati, where the premier commercial, business, art and cultural centers in the Philippines are located. Makati City exudes a vibrant and cosmopolitan ambiance as the city cradles the most progressive business and commercial centers in the Philippines. The city is comparable to New York and Tokyo where almost all businesses in the country set up their respective headquarters. With a revenue amounting to billions of pesos, Makati City is the richest city in the Philippines. All bank headquarters, premier commercial, business and shopping centers, major business process outsourcing companies, and several multinational corporations contribute much to the Makati City’s coffers. All the modern business establishments are equipped with fiber optics system structures that enhance work related accessibility to international communications. Career opportunities are abundant for both locals and expatriates. [!] The high tech IT buildings in Makati City are all registered with the Philippine Export Zone Authority (PEZA), which allows investors to be exempt from paying corporate income tax up to eight years, from taxes and duties on imported capital wares, supplies, spare parts, and raw materials. Registering with PEZA also grants the foreign investors and their immediate family permanent residency status. A glimpse of rich culture and arts scene of Filipino creativity and history can be experienced when visiting the Philippine Army Museum, Museo ng Makati, Manila Contemporary, Yuchengco Museum, The Drawing Room and Silverlens. Yuchengco Museum[!] (https://www.propertyguide.ph/makati-city-cosmopolitan-lifestyle-best/museo-ng-makati/)[!] Other Makati City cultural entertainment venues are international institutions such as Instituto Cervantes and Alliance Francaise de Manille which present week-long festivities in celebration of their respective Spanish and French cinema. Onstage Greenbelt and the RCBC Theater regularly hold musicals, plays, and several live performances. There’s never a dull moment in Makati City. With the international flavors in food, Makati City is a gastronomic destination with cozy cafes, fine dining restaurants, artisanal delis, hip pubs, and numerous gourmet specialty shops. Adding to international flair are the various consulates and embassies holding court in Makati City. With around 47 embassies and 40 consulates. It is a reassurance for any expat to know that they can stay in touch with any country representative should the need for any form of assistance arises. Makati City also houses various international organizations, including the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and the International Committee of the Red Cross. [!] Not only does the business district exude the international flavors in art and culture. Several five-star residential developments also contribute to the distinctive global vibe that Makati City residents are enjoying today. The latest premiere property developments take the lion’s share in the market such as The San Antonio Residence. Makati City residents enjoy living a cosmopolitan lifestyle where everything is close to where one works. Makati City’s most invigorating lifestyle hubs – Ayala and Greenbelt Centers are right at every doorstep of the most prestigious addresses in Metro Manila. (Cite property promotions here) Greenbelt Mall Makati[!] Makati City is a walkable city where one can leisurely walk through underground walkways, covered overpasses and tree-lined wide sidewalks. Families can enjoy weekend bonding in the parks that are strategically located within the Central Business District. Salcedo Park Makati[!] The Philippines’ house prices are strongly rising. Makati City’s residential property market has performed well during the economic growth in the year 2016. The Philippines’ residential property price index, in general, shoot up by almost 9.2% according to the country’s central bank. Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). This is an indicator that the residential property prices in Makati City will continuously rise and any investment you put in today will yield the highest return of investments in the near future. Source
Get in Makati City has some of the strictest traffic rules in Metro Manila. Traffic marshalls actively enforce rules. This means that you can't tell your bus to let you on or off anywhere within its route except at designated stops. Moreover, the colour coding scheme is active all day unlike in other neighbouring cities when they are only enforced during rush hour. By train The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) elevated train has four stations along the main thoroughfare Epifanio De los Santos Avenue (commonly abbreviated as EDSA). These are the Guadalupe, Buendia, Ayala and Magallanes stations. Getting off at the Ayala Station will set you in the middle of the Ayala Centre, a complex of shopping malls and restaurants. The MRT is a quick and inexpensive way to get into the city. The cost of an MRT ticket ranges from 11 to 14 pesos. The Manila Train Guide is a useful app that has a map and tips on how to use the train system. By car Two of Metro Manila's main arteries pass through Makati. The Epifanio De los Santos Avenue (EDSA) passes along the southeast part of Makati and connects the city with Mandaluyong City and Pasay City. The South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) runs through the western part of Makati and connects the city with Manila to the north and with southern Metro Manila. The Skyway, an elevated highway built on top of SLEX, provides residents coming from southern Metro Manila a fast way to reach Makati. SLEX and EDSA intersect at the Magallanes Interchange, which is the most complex system of elevated roadways in Metro Manila. Other major roads in Makati include Buendia Avenue (Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue), which connects with EDSA and SLEX in the north; Ayala Avenue, an important street that runs through the Central Business District; and Makati Avenue, which connects Ayala Avenue with Buendia Avenue and also extends north to cross the Pasig River to Mandaluyong City. By bus Buses plying the Epifanio De los Santos Avenue (EDSA) route from Baclaran in Paranaque to Quezon City and Caloocan City pass through the Central Business District daily. As mentioned above, you can't load or unload just anywhere, you have to wait or go to the designated stops. There are separate loading and unloading zones which you must observe. By river ferry The Pasig River Ferry [57] service is back, with the Guadalupe terminal in Makati currently operational. Though it may not be exactly in a convenient spot for tourists, it's a great alternative route to Makati—especially to the Rockwell area—from other riverside districts such as Intramuros in Manila. Get around One can easily walk around the Central Business District by way of the sidewalks or the new pedestrian underpasses. Driving around the city is also possible. Some areas in the Central Business District are connected with overpasses where pedestrians can walk above the streets. Taxis are also abundant. The flat rate is 40 pesos and a ride across town ranges from 100 to 150 pesos; to Ermita, 200 to about 250 pesos; to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, 200 to about 300 pesos. Airport taxis fall in two categories: Metered and Flat-Fee. [!]
With the warm, welcoming atmosphere and family spirit are prevalent throughout the rest of Metro Manila; most foreigners who have relocated to the Philippines due to temporary work assignments and those who have chosen to stay permanently gravitate toward Makati for numerous reasons. I’ve seen more and more people with different nationalities in this vibrant city, either on their way to work in smart corporate attire or leisurely strolling along with the rest of their families. Here are the factors that draw many of these expats to Makati. 1. Makati owns the country’s most progressive commercial and business district. With city revenues of P12.79 billion in 2014, Makati is the country’s richest city. It’s home to more than 62,000 commercial retail establishments, 48 shopping centers, 274 business process outsourcing companies, 472 bank head offices, and 40% of the top local and multinational corporations. Expats are drawn to Makati as several career opportunities are available. They can work in a multicultural environment, coordinate with colleagues across different time zones, and share their skills with local counterparts. 2. The city’s poised for tech prominence. [!]{.-attachment}Makati is the top choice of expat IT professionals and techpreneurs, or those who own and manage IT startups because the city has ICT-ready buildings that allow them to plug in and immediately start operations. The City of Makati website lists 41 IT buildings registered with PEZA, which allow them to enjoy incentives such as exemption from corporate income tax for up to 8 years, exemption from duties and taxes on imported capital equipment, spare parts, supplies, and raw materials, and permanent residency status for foreign investors and their immediate family members. 3. The ever-dynamic arts and culture scene. Makati is home to Museo ng Makati, Philippine Army Museum, Yuchengco Museum, and art galleries such as Manila Contemporary, Silverlens, and The Drawing Room, all of which give expats a glimpse of Filipino history and creativity. Institutions like Alliance Francaise de Manille and Instituto Cervantes also host week-long festivities celebrating the best of French and Spanish cinema. Plays, musicals, and other live performances are being staged in venues like the RCBC Theater and Onstage Greenbelt on a regular basis. With an eclectic mix of activities and influences, expats always have something to look forward to. 4. Makati truly has an international flavor. With around 47 embassies and 40 consulates located in Makati, expats will find it reassuring that they can get in touch with their country’s representatives in the Philippines should they need assistance. Also, the city gives home to 20 international organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). Even residential developments in Makati have that global vibe. Megaworld’s latest property, the highly anticipated 51-storey Three Central in Salcedo Village, is designed by architectural firm Wilson Associates, whose prestigious portfolio includes the Armani Hotel in Dubai, the Four Seasons Hotel in Shanghai, The Venetian in Las Vegas, and the Terminal 3 of Changi Airport in Singapore. Three Central’s design takes inspiration from an iconic Hong Kong landmark, the Two International Finance Center; its look and feel are at par with the best. Each unit at Three Central will be fitted with kitchen systems and appliances from Swiss brand Franke and Italian-made Indesit, with bath fixtures from Grohe of Germany. Amenities include a hotel-inspired dining area and culinary stations serving food from around the world: pasta, sushi, kebabs, and pastries. [!]{.-attachment}5. The nightlife’s amazing. Makati is a city that never sleeps. By nightfall, the neon lights flicker to life and expats troop to their restaurant, cafe, pub, or sports bar of choice. Cuisines and beverages from all over the world are well-represented, with thousands of establishments to choose from. Indeed, Makati is a great place to unwind after a long day’s work and mingle with Filipinos and other expats working or living in the city. 6. Expats can live an unparalleled cosmopolitan lifestyle. In Makati, expats can experience city living at it finest. The city’s most vibrant lifestyle hubs – Greenbelt and Ayala Center are right at their doorstep when they choose to stay at Greenbelt Hamilton Tower 2, which is right in the heart of Legaspi Village. There they can experience the biggest names in retail, dining, and leisure. And as soon as they get home, expats can pamper themselves with amenities such as hot and cold jacuzzis, a pool lounge and deck, massage areas, and sauna rooms. Children don’t miss out on the fun as they have their own pool, playground, and daycare area. Everything’s carefully master planned so residents can do what they want their way, when they want it done. Are you an expat, or do you know expats thinking of making the move to Makati? Check out pre-selling units here and here. SOURCE
[!] Arguably, the home of luxury condominiums is Makati in the Philippines. It is a bustling city filled with life and people from different walks of life. Being a progressive city, Makati has become the largest business hub in the Philippines, with many reputable companies and businesses making the city their home. The city is known for its rapid financial and infrastructural growth in the past couple of decades, and this has cemented its place in the Metro as the city to be in. However, living in Makati is a different experience from working and conducting business in the growing city. Makati is relatively famous for being stricter when it comes to implementing the law, namely traffic and financial laws. This makes the city safer and friendlier to businesses. Here are some of the advantages of living in Makati: Centered – Makati is arguably a central pillar of the Philippine National Capital Region. Everything can be found in the city, from malls to restaurants to the hottest clubs. Real Estate Corporations also tend to continue developing Makati by continuously building state-of-the-art condos in the ever-growing city. Simply put, Makati is at the center of everything a person can need; grocery stores, shopping malls, and restaurants are plentiful in the city. Security – As stated above, Makati is stricter when it comes to implementing and enacting laws. Makati has a reputable Police force, an ever-present Traffic Enforcement Agency ensuring the public's safety both on and off the road. Popularity – Makati is one of the busiest hubs because many celebrities and notable personages had made the city their home. This, in turn, raises the value and reputation of the various businesses in the city. Simply put, just having these celebrities present in the city makes the various businesses here the metro's go-to places. Financial Stability – The past couple of decades have seen Makati become the country's central financial sector. Many businesses and financial institutions made Makati their home, making the Philippines’ own version of Wall Street. Food – With many good businesses continuously growing because of the city, this, in turn, raises the competition between them up a notch. This translates to friendly rivalries popping up, upping the ante with regards to the quality and the standards of their services. Because of these rivalries, the quality of the food and services are at an all-time high, making Makati a central food hub and simply a place to eat good food. Makati, as stated above, is one of the biggest cities in the Philippines, and it is its central financial sector. By itself, Makati is a beautiful city populated by passionate and colorful people but certainly has its faults. However, it doesn’t have to remain that way. People are more influential than they think, and making Makati your home is definitely a step-up in making it a better place to live. Author’s Biography Jose Mari Gamboa has a degree in Advertising with a thing for businesses and investments. He has attended numerous financial-focused seminars. A Car guy in his social circle loves to eat and explore new trends of food. Jose balances indulging his cravings and a healthy lifestyle. — Source: https://www.pinoybisnes.com/buy-and-sell/5-advantages-of-living-in-makati/
1. Ayala Museum [!]{.-attachment}(photo via Ayala Museum Facebook) The Ayala Museum is located on the corner of Makati Avenue and De La Rosa Street and it certainly is a looker. From permanent displays such as the “Gold of Ancestors” where they feature over a thousand gold relics to “The Diorama Experience,” there’s definitely art everywhere. Did we mention they have several contemporary art pieces on display, as well? Location: Makati Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Greenbelt Park (View Map) Fee(s): Depends on the type of access you're getting. Click here for complete Admission Fees. Operation hours: 9am-6pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) Best for: History buffs, museum lovers, arts & culture enthusiasts Highlight(s): Exploring the collection of archeological artifacts and checking "The Philippine Diorama Experience" exhibition. Contact details: Phone number: (02) 759-8288 Email/Website: www.ayalamuseum.org Facebook: @theayalamuseum 2. Little Tokyo [!] Loitering around craving for some ramen or maybe something to dip in Japanese mayonnaise? Then step into Little Tokyo. Walk past the brown arch and feel like you’ve been transported to Japan, with obscure signboards, zen-themed traditional Japanese structures and a lot of restaurants owned by Japanese restaurateurs. There are a lot of beautiful crafted traditional-looking restaurants in the area that serve carefully and beautifully plated food. First off, make sure you take a couple of snaps at Sekitori, where the servers are dressed in the garb of the Land of the Rising Sun. Also, take drool worthy snaps of sushi and sashimi at Seryna Japanese Restaurant. If you’re looking at a juxtaposition of cool Japanese culinary skills on the traditional backdrop, you should check out Dojo Dairy. Location: Chino Roces Ave, Pasong Tamo corner Amorsolo Street (View Map) Operation hours: Most restaurants open at round 11am and close at 1am Best for: Japanese food lover Highlight(s): Eating your favorite Japanese food. Okawari o kudasai! 3. Salcedo Saturday Market [!] Your Instagram gallery won’t be complete without a fusion of food, nature and of course, some shopping. Which brings us to our next IG-worthy location in Makati, Salcedo Market.. Located at the parking lot of Jaime C. Velasquez park, it is perfect for families and friends who enjoy eating different delicacies, and who love going through a multitude of unique products. Location: Jaime C. Velasquez Park (Salcedo Park) (View Map) Fee(s): FREE Operation hours: 7am-2pm (Saturdays) Adventure level: Mild Highlight(s): The diverse cuisines and artisanal goods. Contact details: Facebook: @SalcedoCommunityMarket 4. B - SIDE at Collective [!] Apart from the drinks, food, and contemporary music, you really need to see B-side’s collection of street art and interesting wall murals. They have reggae music on Sunday nights, so grab a drink, enjoy the music and let your eyes feast on the wonders of this quirky yet beautiful place. Location: 7274 Malugay Street (View Map) Operation hours: 9pm-4am (Wednesdays to Sundays) Best for: Partying with friends, Reggae fans Highlight(s): Irie Sundays Contact details: Phone number: 0917-3063579 Facebook: @B-SIDE Activity tips: - Keep an eye on your valuables since this is an open space. 5. Ayala Triangle Gardens [!]{.-attachment}("Make it Happen, Make it Makati") Ayala Triangle Garden boasts of a collection of contemporary art amidst lush greenery. The park caters to joggers, families and everyone else who needs to take a breather from the concrete jungle that is Makati. During Christmas, the park really comes to life with its colorful light shows - something which would definitely give a pop of color to your IG feed. While the park itself is instagrammable, just a short walk away is the Blackbird Restaurant at the Nielson Tower. The aviation themed restaurant has a clean black and white aesthetic, that serves as the perfect backdrop for Blackbird’s mouthwatering dishes. Location: Paseo De Roxas St. corner Makati Avenue corner Ayala Avenue (View Map) Fee(s): FREE Operation hours: 6am-10pm (Mondays to Sundays) Best for: Family picnics, hangout with friends Adventure level: Chill Highlight(s): Festival of Lights every December Contact details: Email/Website: www.ayalatriangle.com/gardens Facebook: @ayalaATG 6. The Red Light District [!]{.-attachment}(photo via Filling Station Bar Cafe) P. Burgos, known as the Red Light District in Makati, has its fair share of “night clubs.” At night, the street comes to life with neon signs leading to different bars and clubs - despite this, there’s more to P. Burgos than most people give it credit for. If you’re hungry, the Filling Station Bar Cafe is a great place to grab a bite. Its interiors throw you back to the 1950’s - complete with a menu that has a good ‘ol milkshake, burger and fries. The red and white booths, black and white tiles and collection of knick knacks makes for an interesting photo on your IG feed. Location: P. Burgos Street, Brgy. Poblacion (View Map) Best for: Bar hopping, nightlife lovers Adventure level: Wild Activity tips: - Keep your wits about you, and make sure to watch your valuables. 7. Z Hostel Roofdeck [!]{.-attachment}(photo via Z Hostel Philippines Facebook) If you’re looking for a different view of Makati then you should really get yourself to the Roofdeck at the Z Hostel. They don’t only serve beers and a great party scene, but they also offer magnificent views of Makati. Z Hostel is the first luxury hostel in the country and it’s certainly generating quite a buzz from the millennials in the city. If you’re looking for an unobstructed view of the city and you want to snap a couple of pictures of the party scene in Makati, this place offers both. Location: Don Pedro Street, Brgy. Poblacion (View Map) Fee(s): Rooms available for as low as P699 via Traveloka. Book here! Best for: Backpackers, yuppies Adventure level: Chill Highlight(s): A hip view of Makati from the Roof deck. Contact details: Phone number: (02) 856-0851 or 0917-8898531 Website: zhostel.com Facebook: @ZHostelph Activity tips: - Get your chill ready as you hangout with you friends at the Roof deck. 8. Nielson Tower [!]{.-attachment}(photo via Blackbird at the Nielson Tower Facebook) The Nielson Tower houses the Blackbird Restaurant and The Filipinas Heritage Library. Grab some shots in and around the tower, as you marvel at the former airport traffic control. Although, the airport might have transformed in the Ayala Triangle Gardens, the tower has been untouched, except for what it’s home to. Get shots inside the Blackbird Restaurant, where the interiors are chic, sophisticated and uber-modern. If you want to have a look at some history and take a couple of snapshots, then you should head to The Filipinas Heritage Library. Location: Nielson Tower, Ayala Triangle, Makati Avenue (View Map) Fee(s): Budget for one Operation hours: 11am-11pm (Sundays to Thursdays), 11am-midnight (Fridays to Saturdays) Best for: Romantic dates, Special occasions Highlight(s): Being inside one of the most historical places in the city. Contact details: Phone number: (02) 828-4888 Website: blackbird.com.ph/ Facebook: @BlackbirdAtTheNielsonTower Activity tips: - Reserve desserts in advance before they run out! 9. Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church [!]{.-attachment}(photo via Instagram, @jaspercalimag) A lot of people are usually surprised to find that a 400 year old church is located in such a modern city as Makati but what’s better than learning more about a place you thought you already knew right? Also known as Guadalupe Church, this old baroque style Roman Catholic church is a must see not only for church-goers but also for those who are curious to learn more about the hidden heritage of Makati. The place is also a go-to venue for couples looking for a church wedding venue. Location: 7440 Bernardino, Guadalupe (View Map) Operation hours: 6am-6pm (Mondays to Saturdays) 6am-9pm (Sundays) Best for: Couples looking for a Baroque style church as wedding venue Contact details: Phone number: (02) 896-8444 Fax: (02) 895-9141 10. Habitual Coffee [!]{.-attachment}(photo via Instagram, @habitualcoffee) Habitual Coffee is quaint coffee shop tucked along Chino Roces Avenue in Makati. The shop’s industrial beam and concrete design gives the place a bare bones vibe that is perfect for people looking to update their instagram feed. Not only do they serve great coffee, but their spot is perfect for those who want to catch up on work or hang out with friends. Location: 2135 Chino Roces Ave, Legazpi Village (View Map) Operation hours: 8am-9pm Best for: Groups of friends, Freelancers looking for a work spot Highlights: Try their delicious cold brew! Contact details: Phone number: (02) 833 9556 Website: habitualcoffee.co Source: https://www.traveloka.com/en-ph/explore/destination/makati-tourist-spots/63906