'''Metro Manila''' (Filipino: ''Kalakhang Maynila'') is the National Capital Region and the prime tourist destination in the Philippines. The metropolis is the Philippines' center of commerce, education, and entertainment. It is located on the island of Luzon, bordered by the province of Bulacan on the North, Rizal on the east, Laguna in the south and Manila Bay in the west. Though it is the smallest region in the country, Metro Manila has the highest population with almost 15 million inhabitants.
Cities
City of Manila
Quezon City also has its share of large shopping malls, and electronic and automotive parts discount centers. The Ortigas Center at the confluence of Quezon City, Mandaluyong and San Juan is also a shopper's paradise.
Caloocan City the main hub of people from the Northern Philippines. Known to be one of the 4 original cities of Metro Manila, along side Manila, Quezon City, and Pasay City.
Pasay City
Pasig city - A city named after the river next to it, the Pasig River. It is an industrial town with a booming business district in the uptown Ortigas Center. Downtown Pasig is home to more rustic churches, American period houses, and excellent cuisine.
Makati City - Metro Manila's business district with tall buildings, luxurious hotels, vast shopping malls, lively entertainment spots, and numerous restaurants.
Mandaluyong City
Marikina City
Valenzuela City
Muntinlupa City
Paranaque City
Las Pinas City
Malabon City
Taguig City
Other destinations
Pateros
San Juan
Navotas
Alabang
Understand
Locals refer to Metro Manila simply as Manila. However, the City of Manila forms only the city proper of Metro Manila. Consist of 17 cities and 3 municipalities in 630 square kilometers, the metro is an ideal destination to consider. As the national capital region, Metro Manila is the center of Philippine culture, arts, commerce, industry, and tourism. Metro Manila likewise serves as the pivot point to other exciting, popular destinations in the Philippines such as Boracay, Cebu City, Davao City and more.
Talk
Communication with the locals is easy because most everyone is bilingual. While Filipino is the national language, English is the primary language of trade, government, media and education not only in Metro Manila but in the whole Philippines as well. Spanish-speakers will also find it easy to understand the local dialect, Tagalog, since 40% of its vocabulary is Spanish-derived.
Get in
By air
''' Ninoy Aquino International Airport''' (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Ninoy Aquino) ({{IATA|MNL}}) ({{ICAO|RPLL}}) Metro Manila is the primary gateway to the Philippines. This airport, caters to regular flights from China, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, United States, Canada, Netherlands, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.
From overseas, most visitors arrive by plane. Manila is served by three international airports. Philippine Airlines (PAL) has its own terminal, called Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 (NAIA 2), that serves both international and domestic flights. PAL usually provides seamless transfers between their international and domestic network whereas you would generally not be given this service on other carriers.
All other international airlines use NAIA Terminal 1, which is due to be replaced by the newly built modern NAIA Terminal 3 (NAIA 3) in 2009; while other domestic airlines use the old domestic airport which is about a 5 to 10 minute ride from Terminal 1. Be wary of this if you have a connection between a domestic and international flight arriving/departing from these airports.
Coupon (pre-paid) taxis are available at the airports to bring you to your hotel or wherever you may be going. Rates are fixed and dependent on the destination and generally are more expensive compared to what you would pay in a metered taxi. Coupon taxi counters usually are found immediately after exiting customs in both Terminals 1 and 2. Expect to pay somewhere between 10 to 15 USD for destinations within Metro Manila. The usual metered taxis are generally not allowed at the Arrival Terminal so you would either need to catch one unloading at the Departure Area or outside the airport complex. This may be easier said than done however, particularly when lugging around kilos upon kilos of baggage.
Apart from taxis, there are no regular public transport services to the airports except for buses and jeepneys plying routes that pass nearby. It will take a few minutes' walk however before you get to a place where you can board and all this effort may not be worth the hassle so most opt to take the coupon taxis.
Low cost carriers such as Air Asia[http://www.airasia.com/] and Tiger Airways utilize the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) in Clark, Pampanga, which is a 2-hour drive north of Manila. These airlines have dedicated bus transfer services that transport passengers to and from the DMIA via newly renovated toll roads. You can catch the bus by Philtranco [http://www.philtranco.com.ph/] either from it's terminal in Pasay City, Manila or from SM Megamall (behind building A) in Mandaluyong, Manila. From Pasay the fare is 350 pesos and from SM Megamall 300 pesos. Departure tax for this airport has been increased to 500 peso.
By boat
'''Ferries''' run all over the Philippines, but should you not reserve a first class cabin be prepared for uncomfortable cramped conditions. There seems to be lax enforcement of Western safety standards.
'''Supercats''' and '''fastcrafts''' connect short distances between islands on high-speed air-conditioned hydrofoil crafts. Not only do they provide a faster option than ordinary ferries, they are also much better maintained and have a remarkable safety record. Among the major routes serviced by fastcrafts in and around Manila are: Manila-Bataan, Manila-Cavite and Batangas-Puerto Galera.
By bus
The '''Strong Republic Nautical Highway''' has made inter-island travel by bus possible. Major islands are connected by Roll On - Roll Off ferries which can carry cars, buses and cargo trucks. An example is the Manila to Boracay route which goes via Batangas, Calapan and Roxas in Mindoro then Caticlan. '''Philtranco''' [http://www.philtranco.com.ph/d4/index.html] serves various inter-island routes and has a terminal in Cubao, Quezon City. Needless to say however that these trips can take quite a bit of time and may not be worth the savings if you have only a few days to spend in the Philippines.
Normal provincial buses serving other parts of Luzon also have terminals in various portions of Metro Manila. The Cubao area in Quezon City and the Bonifacio Monument area in Kalookan City is where buses serving the northern portions of Luzon (e.g. Baguio, Zambales) have their terminals.
The Buendia Ave. cor Taft Ave. intersection in Makati and the area near the Taft Ave. and EDSA intersection in Pasay is where buses from the south (e.g. Batangas, Laguna) have their terminals.
Get around
By car
The metropolis has an extensive system of highways connecting the various cities and municipalities. The major roads include ten radial roads, which branch out from central Manila and five circumferential roads which form concentric arcs around downtown Manila. Most of these roads are very important transportation arteries. One is the C-4 (Circumferential Road 4) also called Epifanio de los Santos Avenue or more popularly known as EDSA. Some other other important roads are R-1 (Radial Road 1) or Coastal Road/Manila-Cavite Road; R-3 or South Luzon Expressway (SLEX); R-7, which consists of Espana Avenue, Quezon Avenue, and Commonwealth Avenue; R-8 or the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX); and C-5 going from Bicutan to Libis (simply referred to as C-5).
However, driving in a private car is not recommended for people who are unfamiliar with Manila because many drivers there ignore such things as stoplights and lane markings and most also have no idea what right of way means (although this behavior has been <b>decreasing significantly</b> over the years). Public transport is very cheap however but may get very crowded during the rush hours in the morning and early evening (7 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM). Traffic also tends to crawl during these times so best avoid being on the move in these occasions. Another fact to take note is, just like any city in South-East Asia, drivers in Manila tend to be reckless, but road signages are <b>very common</b>, though some are not that visible, and are also well abided and respected by at least 75% of Manila drivers despite the fact that this signages are quite different from international standards because of its very dominant pink color.
When driving, be cautious of pedestrians crossing illegally. Be also aware when driving in narrow streets, where children usually play, given Manila is a crowded metropolis. Be also aware of the existing <b>Number-Coding Scheme</b>, where some vehicles are not allowed to ply Metro Manila streets from 7AM to 10AM, and from 3PM to 7PM, Mondays to Fridays, i.e. cars with license plates ending in numbers 1 and 2 should not go out of the street on the said schedule every <b>Mondays</b>, 3 and 4 every <b>Tuesdays</b>, and so on and so forth. Makati City however observes the Number-Coding scheme the whole day.
The price of petroleum is relatively comparable to that paid in the US but expensive in the eyes of locals.
By jeepney
'''Jeepneys''' are evolved versions of the Jeep which American Armed Force units used as utility vehicles during the war years. Usually built with a reconditioned surplus diesel engine from Japan coupled to a locally fabricated chassis, jeepneys come in a wide range of colors and decorations that are limited only by the owner's/driver's imagination and taste. Over time, it has become the most common means of public transport in the Philippines. Recently however, the introduction of more modern buses as well as the more efficient LRT and MRT have lessened the importance of the jeepney. They still do travel all over the city, particularly in routes which are too small to be serviced by buses - but know exactly where you are headed before getting on. Once inside, pay directly to the driver by telling him where you want to get off and how many people you are paying for. The fare structure begins with a minimum fare for the first four kilometers and increases every additional kilometer thereafter. As of Jan '06 minimum fare is P 7.50 (14 US cts) while the per kilometer additional fare is P 1.25. You can also request the driver to inform you that you are near to your destination. Note that loading and unloading zones for jeepneys are rarely followed so people hop on and get off practically at will. Caution - Jeeps are designed to carry small people - and can get very cramped for anyone over 6ft tall particularly if the jeepney is fully loaded! Jeepneys can usually sit anywhere from 12 to 14 people.
By taxi
Taxis are very affordable by western standards but pretty expensive for locals and almost all are now air-conditioned and use a meter to compute for the final fare. The taxi rates start at PHP 30 (USD 0.60) for the first 500 metres and an extra PHP 2.5 (USD 0.10) for every succeeding 300-metres or 2 minutes of stopping.
Some drivers may take advantage of tourists, but closer regulation by authorities and even by mall operators, are curbing this practice slowly. Many taxis are in a poor state of repair and drivers drive erratically. The LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board) has now instituted hotline numbers to report erring drivers. Just take note of the cab name and number. Mall operators also closely monitor the operations of taxis that use their taxi racks by ensuring that cab drivers do not choose only passengers bound for nearby destinations. Do not hire taxis waiting at bus terminals; they will charge much higher fare (100% more than normal fare). Just walk out from any main bus terminal, and you will find plenty of cabs. Be wary especially during traffic as drivers will ask for a minimum fare higher than what the meter requires you to pay. Also during rush hour (both morning and evening), it is not unusual to see taxi drivers hesitant to drive you if your destination involves crossing EDSA. During the early morning, passengers are strongly advised to bring smaller denominations of bills (as well as coins) as drivers usually don't have ready change.
By bus
Buses are common in the major thoroughfares of Metro Manila and most will pass through EDSA. The common routes are as follows:
Baclaran-Navotas (via EDSA and Ayala or via EDSA alone)
Baclaran-SM Fairview (via EDSA and Ayala)
Baclaran-Malanday (via EDSA and Ayala)
Baclaran-Novaliches (via EDSA and north Luzon Expressway)
Baclaran-Sta. Maria Bulacan (via EDSA and Ayala and North Luzon Expressway or MacArthur Highway)
Grotto-NAIA (the airport in Paranaque and will pass through EDSA and SM Fairview)
Malanday-NAIA (via EDSA)
Alabang/Pacita-Navotas (via south Luzon Expressway and EDSA)
Alabang-Malanday (via south Luzon Expressway and EDSA)
Alabang-SM Fairview (via south Luzon Expressway and EDSA)
Alabang/Pacita-Novaliches (via south Luzon Expressway, EDSA and north Luzon Expressway)
There are both ordinary and air-conditioned buses available. Conductors collect your fare once on board and they are ready with change although it is suggested you have coins during morning rush-hours ready. Just tell him/her where you want to get off. Like the jeepneys, buses do not have route numbers identifying their routes and often do not observe loading and unloading areas except for some highly regulated zones where they are bound to get a ticket for not doing so, most notably in Makati's central business district. As such, it is not uncommon for people to get on and off in odd places. Buses sometimes load and unload in the middle of the road and couldn't care less about the traffic they may cause. Furthermore, they don't have a timetable for when to stop at a particular area although buses bound to the same place stop at a particular area seconds from each other. The fare structure of buses is almost the same as that of jeepneys where a fare matrix is provided and fares increase at a constant rate per kilometre after the first few kilometres. While EDSA has a bus lane (two lanes wide on each side), these are generally packed with buses from city/provincial routes funneling down the thorughfare, and are rarely followed. If your route/destination is along EDSA, it is best to take the MRT (see below) to avoid the traffic.
By minivan
'''FX''' (minivans) are a relatively new transport mode available now. They are more expensive than jeepneys, but cheaper than taxis. FX follow the jeepney practice of having a fixed route but like taxis are usually air-conditioned. You likely will have to share the ride as the FX can take up to 10 passengers at a time, but it's reasonably comfortable.
By tricycle
''Tricycles'' (motorcycles with modified side cars) These are common for short trips in areas where jeepneys do not travel. In Manila proper you are unlikely to see any. However, in outlying suburbs and towns they are more common. Another variant is the '''pedicab''' which is merely a bicycle with a side car.
By rail
Travelling by rail is so far, the safest option. Here are some options to choose from:
There the '''LRT''' which is run by the Light Rail Transit Authority or LRTA [http://www.lrta.gov.ph/passenger_info.htm]. The '''LRT''' has two lines. Line 1 (also known as the Yellow Line) runs along Taft Avenue from Baclaran in Paranaque to the Bonifacio Monument in Kalookan City. Line 2 (also known as the Purple Line) runs from Santolan in Pasig to Recto in the heart of downtown Manila.
'''MRT''' The Metro Rail Transit [http://www.dotcmrt3.gov.ph] (also known as Line 3 or the Blue Line) is a light rail transit system that runs along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue or EDSA, one of the main thoroughfares in Metro Manila. The MRT runs from the North Avenue Station in Quezon City to the Taft Avenue Station in Pasay City. Fares are cheap (15 pesos for the entire length) and it is air conditioned albeit quite crowded during the morning and early evening rush hours. Entering the system requires a ticket which like other countries, must be inserted onto the turnstile. Alternatively, contactless plastic cards are increasingly becoming available to access the system although surcharges to both top-up the card and to pay for actual travel apply.
Single-journey and stored-value tickets are available for each of the lines. You can transfer between lines at the following areas:
*Between Line 1 and Line 2: Dorroteo Jose-Recto
*Between Line 1 and Line 3: Taft Avenue-EDSA
*Between Line 2 and Line 3: Araneta Centre/Cubao
However, unlike most other countries, you will need to exit the system and purchase a separate ticket to ride on the other lines except if you're in possession Strong Republic Transit Flash Pass.
On foot
It is not recommended to walk in Manila since many street sides are infested with vendors and peddlers. If walking is inevitable, just remember that you should always walk on areas were pedestrians walk (common sense), and crossing a street is not a problem, if you know how to cross the street correctly.
Walking at night is not also recommended, especially for women. Walking in groups is a safe option if you are going at night.
See
One should see Metro Manila's numerous attractions.
Plazas, Parks and Nature Reserves
Luneta Park
Manila Zoological and Botannical Gardens
Ninoy Aquino Wildlife Center
La Mesa Dam EcoPark
Quezon Memorial Circle
Greenbelt Park
Plaza de Roma
Plaza de Goiti
Plaza Miranda
Manila Ocean Park
Intramuros
Churches
Manila Cathedral (Basilica Minore de la Immaculada Concepcion)
San Agustin Church
Baclaran Church (Redemptorist Church)
Malate Church (Remedios Church)
Binondo Church (Basilica Minore de San Lorenzo Ruiz)
Quiapo Church (Basilica Minore de Jesus Nazareno)
Sanctuario de San Antonio
Epifanio de los Santos Shrine
Museums
The National Museum of the Filipino People
Metropolitan Museum
Filipinas Heritage Library
Ateneo Art Gallery
Ayala Museum
Lopez Museum
The Museum at De La Salle University-Manila
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
Monuments
Monumento de la Revolucion
Rizal Monument
People Power Monument
Quezon Monument
Bonifacio Monument
'''==Itineraries=='''
Shop.
There are generally two kinds of shopping destinations in Manila: the mall and the ''tiangge'' ("chang-ghe"). The Manila '''mall''' is more than just a shopping experience but a cultural destination as well. The largest malls in Metro Manila are practically their own cities within the city: complete with boutiques, supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, cinemas, medical facilities, hotels, schools, offices, gyms, serviced apartments, spas, convention centers, art galleries, bowling alleys, museums, ice skating rinks, and even a chapel for Sunday masses.
----
'''Major shopping destinantions:'''
[http://www.smmallofasia.com/ SM Mall of Asia] - (MOA) Second largest mall in Asia, third biggest mall in the World. (Main attraction: IMAX Cinemas)
Ayala Center - You should allocate at least half a day for this shopping area as it is much larger than you think. It appears that the interconnected malls are much larger than SM Mall of Asia.
*Glorietta Shopping Mall
*[http://www.ayalamalls.com.ph/content/greenbelt.asp Greenbelt] - the country's lifestyle center
*Landmark
''Nearby luxury hotels:
[http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/manila/makatishangrila Makati Shangri-La],
[http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/overview/MNLHA?ptLink=hd Hotel Intercontinental],
[http://www.mandarinoriental.com/manila/ Mandarin Oriental],
[http://www.peninsula.com/manila/en/default.aspx Manila Peninsula]''
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shangri-La_Mall Shangri-La Plaza]
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SM_Megamall SM Megamall]
In February 2006, Manila upped the ante on shopping malling with the opening of the gargantuan SM Mall of Asia exactly adjacent to Manila Bay, said to be the largest mall in the region. Simply put, shopping malls abound in Metro Manila, and the shopping experience is second to none, even by western standards.
However, if you wish to experience the "ultimate Manila shopping experience", one has to shop at a '''tiangge'''. Tiangges are small makeshift stalls clustered together that sell anything and everything you can imagine think bazaars). But at bargain basement prices. In these places, one has to haggle, particularly if you are buying wholesale (defined as at least six pieces of the same item). The best tiangge complexes are in the Greenhills Shopping Center, Tiendesitas, Market! Market!, St. Francis Square, Tutuban Center Mall, Divisoria Mall, and 168 Mall. Go crazy buying quality clothes and shoes, pretty fashion jewelry and things for the house at very reasonable prices!
An entertainment city is planned by the government and has since broken ground in 2008 adjacent to the Mall of Asia which will feature 5-6 star hotels, casinos, high-end condominiums, shopping malls, theme park, an observation tower that is set to be one of the tallest in Southeast Asia and Manila's version of the London Eye. Already a Neochinatown has sprung nearby as well as the new Marriot Resort Community (Newport) is currently under different phases of development.
Metro Manila is by-far the most expensive urbanized area in the Philippines, but cheaper compared to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Brunei. According to the Mercer Human Resource Consulting Cost of Living Survey of 2008, Manila is the cheapest to live in Southeast Asia for expatriates.
Eat
A tourist or visitor may be amused or perplexed to see Filipinos eating most of the time. Apart from the three major meals of the day, there are snacks in the morning and in the afternoon called "merienda" which are integral part of a typical Pinoy's everyday life. In the rural areas, every little town or barrio throws at least one feast a year in honor of its patron saint. And since a lot of Filipinos are family-oriented, food has become as significant as any family celebration which includes weddings, birthdays, baptisms, anniversaries and more. The proliferation of dining places or restaurants thus seems to mirror this aspect of the Filipino culture and the following are just some of the hip areas to visit for someone who wants to go on a food trip:
Greenbelt Lifestyle Center - the widest selection of food choices, which also happen to be the trendiest and most unique, can be found in the Greenbelt Area at heart of Ayala Center in Makati City.
Tomas Morato - Before midnight strikes, the strip is becoming increasily famous among locals for comedy bars. However, restaurants with gastronomic delights of every kind or dish abound from end-to-end.
The Promenade at Greenhills -
Baywalk - Prior to 2006, this used to be the most famous location for an abundance of affordable, delightful street food, by the bay. However, this has been closed by the city government for certain issues. Nevertheless, a visit to this area provides a different perspective of the old city of Manila.
Eastwood - Peppered with a lot of choices that offer comfortable dining in airconditioned or al fresco style, this place appeals to the upbeat, on-the-rise professionals and more affluent members of the Filipino society. There are lots of things to enjoy from good food, music, to midnight movies and shopping. Very appropriate for the night owls.
The Fort Strip and Serendra located in Global City, Taguig - Trendy, classy, isolated yet warm, surprising and fulfilling. From Makati City, it is easy to reach the newest dining and entertainment hub in the Metropolis by private car or cab.
Tiendesitas - literally "little stores", This place seems to have been primarily built with returning Filipinos in mind as well as foreigners interested in some kind of cultural immersion. It is a confluence of some 450 traders from the three major islands of the Philippines, namely Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, selling specialty merchandise. So much to choose from but the food pavilions are the busiest.
Drink
The epicenter of Metro Manila's famous nightlife is the '''Greenbelt''' in Makati where some of the city's best restaurants, cafes, bars and karaoke joints cluster around a park in the middle of the main business district. The Fort, Serendra and Bonifacio High Street are three different clusters that offers high-end restaurants, bars and shops in the nearby city of Taguig. Bohemian '''Malate''' and the adjoining '''Baywalk''' contain a variety of venues serving a combination of food, comedy, alcohol and live music in Manila. Other nightlife clusters in the Metro are '''Eastwood''', '''Araneta Center''', and '''Timog''' all in Quezon City.
The introduction of American hip hop music has had a noticeable effect on Philippine night life, serving as the soundtrack to a high-spirited Manila youth culture. Many nightclubs now rival first-world standards both in terms of luxury and vibrancy.
Additionally, there are numerous venues in which to catch elements of an active Philippine alternative rock community. Some venues, such as [http://www.saguijo.com/index.php saGuijo Cafe] in Makati, have risen to some prominence.
Stay safe
Aside from pickpockets and cellphone-snatching, Manila is relatively safe for almost all tourists, especially Caucasian-looking people, and nowadays, Koreans. Tourists are expected to receive warm welcome from locals if they are somewhat connected to the locals (for example, your are married to a local, or you have a boyfriend/girlfriend who is a local).
Violent crime is quite evident in some parts of the metro, but this usually happens among locals, and tourists shouldn't be worry, since police visibility is very high, with frequent police patrol cars plying within Metro Manila, especially touristy areas.
Bag-snatching is also common, but of course, common sense will do good. This incidents are of less frequency to tourists compared to neighboring cities, notably Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, and most victims are locals.
Be also aware of stray dogs, but they are very very rare in Manila City proper and Makati CBD, and can only be seen in residential outskirts and non-commercialized suburbs of Metro Manila.
Sleep
Metro Manila has a lot of hotels, inns and apartelles. Most of these accommodations can be found within Makati, Roxas Boulevard overlooking Manila Bay, or in the districts of Ermita and Malate. The choices listed below are about 20 to 30 minutes away from the international and domestic airport and have been aligned with the Manila and the Makati links of this website.
'''
Budget
'''
GINHAWA, #100 K-6th Street, Kamias, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines. ? +(632)441-0658 or mobile (63928)554-5825, (63915)3270457. Situated in the residential district of Quezon City, this place is not the usual accommodation for tourists, very accessible to public transportation and very affordable at the cost of P350.00/person for an overnight stay. Ginhawa, which in English literally means comfort or well-being, is a half-way house for itinerant beings searching for deeper meaning and broader perspective of the Philippines in their travel experiences thru cultural immersion and relational bonding with healers, transformation facilitators, environmentalists, student leaders and professionals. The house, which is some 15 minutes away from the premiere University of the Philippines, is also a well-maintained community center for integrative or complementary renewal and transformation work which draw from both eastern and western traditions, such as Reiki Healing, Dance Movement Therapy, Body-based Meditation, etc. A pick-up arrangement from the airport, anytime, anyday, can be arranged at a cost of P500 or roughly US $10.00 per person. The center_fs service vehicle may also be used to bring the guest/s to the nearest Metro Station, upon prior arrangement with the guest house administrators.
MAKATI APARTELLE, 4411 Montojo St. near corner Chino Roces Ave. and Kalayaan Ave., Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Telephones +632-8974219 or +632-8973787 or +632-8974218. E-mail reservations or inquiries to makatiapartelle@yahoo.com. Offers one-bedroom fully furnished units at PHP895/day for single or double occupancy in a three-storey building. Walking distance to food outlets, supermarkets and public transportation. One short jeepney or taxi ride away from the Makati Central Business District and the malls/nightlife of either Makati or Ermita, Manila. Patronized by Filipino and foreign guests. Each unit has an air-con, cable TV, refrigerator, 1 double bed (sleeps 2 people), living and dining room sets, private bath with hot shower,an intercom/telephone for free local calls, electric kettle, electric stove (upon request at extra charge),chinaware and kitchen utensils. Free WIFI at all floor lobbies. Linens and towels provided, daily housekeeping provided, utilities included. Extra bed can be provided upon request. All-female friendly staff. Very clean, safe and inexpensive. Maps and library available. Their website, for further information, pictures and location map, is http://www.makatiapartelle.com
Green Mango Inn, 365 Aguirre Avenue (near El Grande Avenue & 7 houses from BPI Family Savings Bank), BF Homes, Sucat, Paranaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Telephones (24 hours) +632 -8208730 or +632-7102223 or +632-4151692. E-mail reservations or any inquiries to gh_realty@yahoo.com. Nearest 4 airports, Metro Manila's only garden-style bed & breakfast guesthouse with charming colonial-style architecture and handmade mother-of-pearl "capiz" seashell windows. Free WiFi for your laptop computers, also affordable internet computer. Only P 300 Pesos each dorm bed with air-conditioning and and free locker, P 700 Pesos or P800 Pesos for each private room good for 2 persons. Owned by young traveller and multi-awarded writer to promote affordable but fun tourism. Hot & cold showers. All new rooms and facilities with international cable TV channels. Nice extensive library. Big clean guests' kitchen, elegant patio for dining room under giant Mango tree (eat free delicious mangoes if in season!) and also beside organic vegetable garden (you can eat fresh vegetables here), lounge & social areas in reception lobby and in the verandah with orchids and hanging plants on pillars and walls.
Friendlys Guesthouse, 1750 Adriatico St. Corner Nakpil St., Malate, Manila, Philippines, ? +63 (0)917 333 1418 (benjie@friendlysguesthouse.com), [14]. Offers good clean accommodation aimed at backpackers and travelers. Hostel has large living areas, a big kitchen and free wi-fi. Their website (for further information) is http://www.friendlysguesthouse.com Fan Dormitory - Php 290, Aircon Dormitory - Php 340, Single Bed / Big Bed Fan Rooms - Php 450, 500, 550, Big Bed / Double Deck Bed Aircon Rooms - Php800, Triple Economy Double Deck Aircon Rooms (sofa bed on bottom and single bed on top for 3 persons) - Php 900, Big Bed Aircon Rooms With Private Bath - Php 900. edit
Townhouse Hotel, #31 Villa Carolina Townhouse, 201 Roxas Boulevard cor. Bayview Dr., Tambo Paranaque, Metro Manila Philippines, ? +632-716-1262 (fax: +632-715-6358), [15]. Not the cleanest and located in a dilapidated area, but only 3km from the main nightlife district. They also have an extensive library & Friendly filipino staff. Best dormitory rates start at PHP180 (approximately US$4). edit
Windsor Inn, #1748 A. Maceda Street, Sampaloc district (across 7-11 store of Dimasalang Street), ? +632 7118679 & +632 7836781 & +632 4112311. 3-storey classical-style architecture mansion converted into an affordable inn in the heart of an ancient part of Manila called Sampalodc (Tagalog for "Tamarind") district, near the country's famous 24-hours fresh flowers market in Dangwa and almost next door to the La Loma area well-known as the "Lechon" or roasted pigs center of the Philippines with its lots of native Filipino eateries, next door to La Loma Cockpit for exciting blood sport of cockfighting, and not far from exotioc ancient Chinese Cemetery. Convenient for diverse nightlife and public transport including Light Rail Transit or LRT (Blumentritt Station), tricycles and all kinds of bus stations to major provincial destinations like Baguio City, Banaue Rice Terraces, Sagada and other places. All tourists going to Banaue Rice Terraces need to go to Sampaloc district to ride Dangwa or Autobus buses near Windsor Inn. It has perhaps the most affordable room rates in the city and friendly Filipino staff who speak good English. However, don't expect luxury here or any fancy stuff, despite the grand high-ceiling lobby and chandeliers in internet photos, this is just a plain and very simple budget inn just right for its price. Safety is assured by 24-hours security guard outside the well-lighted gas station and its lively neighborhood. Private Room in Windsor Inn is only P350 Pesos per night or less than US$7 dollars. edit
Hotel Indah Manila 350 A J Villegas Street, Ermita, Manila. Tel. No.: +63 (2) 536 1188 / 536 2288. This modest 76-room hotel is the ideal choice for practical travelers who demand clean and comfortable accommodation in an accessible location. Facilities include Cafe Indah and conference and function rooms. Comprehensive service suite includes airport and city transfers, tour assistance, and laundry service.
El Cielito Inn, 804 Arnaiz Avenue (formerly Pasay Road), Makati City, Metro Manila, ? +632-815-8951 (fax: +632-817-9610), [3]. Located in Manila's financial district of Makati City, El Cielito_fs generous standard, deluxe, and superior rooms guarantee a cozy stay. Very close to the first-class Ayala Malls, this hotel is renowned for its budget rooms at bargain-basement prices. Best rates on official website start at US$33. edit
Saint Illian's Inn, 7461 Santillan Street, Pio del Pilar, Makati City 1230, ? +(632)893-0754 (fax: +(632)812-1998), [4]. Situated in the business district of Makati City, Saint Illian's Inn is a budget Makati hotel that is clean and efficient. Located along Santillan Street, a five-minute walk or so away from Makati Cinema Square, one of Makati City's many malls, and about 15 minutes away (by foot) from the two premiere Makati City malls, the Ayala Glorietta and the Ayala Greenbelt. Best rates on official website start at US$27.
[http://www.avenuehotelsuites.com/ A. Venue Hotel Suites] <sleep alt="Avenue Hotel Suites" address="Antel Lifestyle City, Makati Avenue, Makati City, Philippines" directions="" phone="(632) 757.2615" price="Starts at Php3,800" lat="" long="">A luxury hotel located right in the heart of Makati_fs business district. It offers world class restaurants, function rooms, and comfortable accommodations.</sleep>
[http://www.nicholshotel.com.ph/ '''Nichols Airport Hotel'''] <sleep address="Quirino Avenue, Paranaque, Metro Manila" long="">Nichols Airport Hotel provides comfortable air-conditioned accommodations with room service, airport and city transfers, and other travel-friendly services. </sleep>
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Nichols Airport Hotel Quirino Avenue, Paranaque, Metro Manila. Nichols Airport Hotel provides comfortable air-conditioned accommodations with room service, airport and city transfers, and other travel-friendly services.
The Legend Villas, 60 Pioneer corner Madison Streets,Mandaluyong City 1550, Philippines, ? (632) 633-1501 to 10, [16]. Best rates on official website start at US$50. edit
Binondo Suites, 801 Ongpin and S. Padilla Streets, Binondo, Manila, ? +632-736-6501 (business@binondosuites.com, fax: +632-736-5783), [17]. Three-star Standard Business Hotel in the heart of Chinatown, Manila. Best rates on official website start at US$35. edit
CSB Hotel, Arellano Avenue corner Estrada Street, Manila, [18]. Four-star hotel near Taft Avenue, accessible to public transportation and tourist areas. Close to Central Business District. Known for its quality furnishings, terrific food, and value for money. edit
Garden Plaza Hotel and Suites, 1030 Belen Street, Paco, Manila, ? +632-522-4835 (fax: +632-526-2740), [19]. Strategically located in the heart of Manila, The Garden Plaza Hotel and Suites offers excellent proximity to all things exciting. The hotel is a daily witness to the Manila_fs gorgeous sunsets and active nightlife. A short distance away is Malate and Ermita. At night, Manila_fs main tourist belts are pulsing with life. Best rates on official website start at US$44. edit
Lotus Garden Suites Manila, 1227 A. Mabini corner Padre Faura Sts., Manila, ? +632-522-1515 (fax: +632-522-0768), [20]. Lotus Garden Hotel is a three star hotel now emerging to be one of the most preferred standard hotels in Manila, Philippines. Best rates on official website start at US$33. edit
Fersal Inn - Manila#1455 A. Mendoza Street corner Alvarez Street Sta. Cruz, Manila Philippines. Tel. No.: (632) 911-2161 loc. 148 DL: (632) 912-2691 discount hotel Manila - Official website of Fersal Inn-Manila in Manila, Philippines. Strategically close to the university belt, malls, shipping lines, night markets, and parks.
AIM Conference Center Manila (Accommodation in Makati), Buenavidez cor. Trasierra Streets, Legaspi Village, Makati City 1260 Philippines., ? +632 750-1010 (accm@aim.edu.ph, fax: +632 751 7160 / +632 750 4459), [5]. Conference / Accommodation in Makati - AIM Conference Center Manila edit
Asian Mansion II Condotel Makati, 107 Dela Rosa Street, Legaspi Village Makati City Philippines, ? +632-844-9061 (fax: +632-844-9061), [6]. The Asian Mansion II Condotel Makati is an elegant property along De La Rosa Avenue, very near the Ayala Center that features better-than-average rooms with just the right mix of amenities, facilities, and services. Online reservation at best rates with instant confirmation start at $50. Best rates on official website start at US$45. edit
Asian Mansion II Condotel Makati, 107 Dela Rosa Street, Legaspi Village Makati City Philippines, ? +632-844-9061 (fax: +632-844-9061), [7]. The Asian Mansion II Condotel Makati is an elegant property along De La Rosa Avenue, very near the Ayala Center that features better-than-average rooms with just the right mix of amenities, facilities, and services. Online reservation at best rates with instant confirmation start at $50. Best rates on official website start at US$45. edit
BSA Mansion Condotel Makati, 103 Carlos Palanca St., Legaspi Village Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines, 1200, ? +632-812-2729 (fax: +632-812-2671), [8]. BSA Mansion Condotel's rooms are tastefully appointed and designed to integrate all the comforts of home. Location-wise, this hotel is walking distance to the Ayala Center, the city's major shopping and business mecca. Best rates on official website start at US$40. edit
BSA Suites, 108 Benavidez Street, Legaspi Village Makati City Philippines, ? +632 8841463 (fax: (632) 887-0513), [9]. Units at BSA Suites Serviced Apartments are uniquely furnished to offer functional and comfortable apartments complete with living, dining and kitchen facilities meeting the needs of both business travelers and leisure guests on short or extended stays. Best rates on official website start at US$40. edit
BSA Tower, 108 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village Makati City, Philippines, ? (632) 887-0147 (fax: +632 8841463), [10]. BSA Tower is elegantly designed to provide both business and leisure travelers with a relaxing stay in the country's central business hub. Best rates on official website start at US$56. edit
City Garden Hotel, 7870 Makati Avenue cor Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City, Metro Manila, ? +632-899-1111 (fax: +632-899-1415), [11]. This three-star Makati hotel along Makati Avenue is one of the more popular mid-range hotels, with excellent dining, sightseeing, and evening opportunities all in the area. Best rates on official website start at US$33. edit
Copacabana Businessman's Hotel, 912 Pasay Road, Makati City, Metro Manila, ? +632-844-8811 (fax: +632-844-6126), [12]. Guests who stay at the Copa Businessman's Hotel in Makati appreciate its convenient location in the heart of the Central Business District. This Makati hotel is in walking distance from major shopping centers and a vast choice of restaurants, entertainment centers and most especially, top business addresses. Best rates on official website start at US$59. edit
Makati Prime Tower Suites, Kalayaan Avenue corner P. Burgos St., Bel-Air Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines, ? +632-750-3010 (fax: +632-750-2982), [13]. A 110-room property located along bustling Kalayaan Avenue (Makati Avenue). Close to the Power Plant Mall and accessible to great Makati entertainment. Fully air-conditioned executive studios, one and two bedroom suites, and luxury penthouses available. Best rates on official website start at US$38. edit
Oxford Suites, Durban corner P. Burgos Street, Makati City, ? +632-899-7888 (fax: +632-897-7900), [14]. A 27-storey property located at the heart of the city_fs Business & Entertainment district, the Oxford Suites are patterned after the emerging trend of boutique lodging found in Los Angeles and London. Best rates on official website start at US$50. edit
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