What to Do in Makati, Philippines: A Guide

If you look at the concrete structures and numerous hotels in Makati, Philippines like Guijo Suites, it is hard to imagine the country's central business district existed once upon a time as an airport runway surrounded by swampland. These days, the streets are filled with people, are lined with buildings that stretch up to the sky, and packed with upscale malls, restaurants, and all the other usual business and pleasure suspects that one can think of. It truly has gone a very long way and is now undeniably urban from head to foot.

As such, for tourists coming to the city, this means there is no shortage of fun things to do and places to discover while you stay. It doesn't matter what you fancy doing because there is something for everyone for sure.

Here is a shortlist of what to do in Makati to get you started:

Visit the Ayala Museum in Greenbelt

Do you like things golden and shiny? Head to the Ayala Museum, the one place that houses the best gold collections in the entire archipelago. Soak in some culture while marveling at the beauty of ancient artifacts such as sashes, earrings, and masks that belonged to early Filipinos. There is truly nothing like it. How can it be when you are talking about stuff that were around for the past 700 years? You can find items made of gold similar to the drawings in the Boxer Codex. The codex refers to a 16^th century book containing drawings of ancient Filipinos across the country. Do you want to know the best part of all this? The museum is inside a mall so there is no hassle in getting there.

Get ready to shop

Speaking of malls, what is an urban metropolis without a mall? It seems Filipinos are fond of shopping, the huge concentration of malls around a given area attesting to the fact. It is no different in Makati; it is a shopping paradise, with one mall connected to another, and another, and another. Try going to Greenbelt, Landmark, Glorietta, and SM Makati to find a variety of items from the branded ones to the more affordable stuff. As mentioned, these malls are connected via bridges, so shoppers easily move from one place to another. You better come in comfortable footwear.

Hit the weekend markets

They say you really get to know a place and its people by visiting its market. If this saying is true then Makati is undoubtedly a real fantastic place. Its two weekend Markets, the Salcedo and Legazpi weekend markets offer the best in the metro. Brimming with good food, fresh and organic produce, homemade crafts, international cuisine and more, these markets definitely hit the spot. Make sure to stop by if you are staying in hotels around the area like GuijoSuites Makati.

The 3 Makati City Spots for Christmas Sightseeing Trips

If you've decided to spend the Christmas holidays without leaving Metro Manila, one of your best options would be Guijo Suites in Makati, Philippines. The hotel's restaurant is sure to provide you and your company a sumptuous breakfast that will let you explore the city's main commercial and financial district for the rest of the day. Now,  since it's already the holiday season, expect that some establishments might be closed for the holidays. It doesn't mean, however, that you have less reasons to go around and take in the sights. Remember that the holidays present you with an opportunity to see the city up close without being bothered by the heavy traffic. Try to see iconic high-rise buildings, tree-lined streets, and convenient pedestrian walkways at your own time.

To make the most of your stay, head to these places to enjoy the festive sights and sounds that mark the Christmas season in the country's financial capital.

1. Ayala Avenue

Take advantage of the short breather the season has granted to one of the city's busiest roads by visiting Ayala Avenue and admiring the light sculptures that pepper the sidewalk. Best time to visit would be a little after sunset so you can see how the lights play out.

2. Ayala Triangle

Swing by this lush garden and view the spectacular light show that plays to the tune of well-known Christmas carols. The park is right beside the avenue of the same name. The place is surrounded by dining options so drop by in time for dinner.

3. Glorietta 4 Park

Hit 2 birds with one stone by doing your Christmas shopping at the mall and taking commemorative pictures beside the giant tree at the park. Like Ayala Triangle, the mall also lets you enjoy proximity to restaurants, bars, cafes, and snack shops.

If you chance to drop by Makati on a weekday, sometime before or after December 25, you can also see the many museums and art galleries in the city. Choices close your hotel in Makati, Manila include:

• View artistic collaborations on display at Alliance Française de Manille in Bel-Air II.
• Visit the Ayala Museum at Makati Avenue corner De la Rosa Street, Greenbelt Park.
• See the paintings and sculptures at Galleria Nicolas, located at 3/F Art Space, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center.
• And for big artworks, visit Gallery Big at 2/F LRI Design Plaza, 210 N. Garcia St., Bel-Air.

Book an accommodation today at Guijo Suites Makati and bring yourself closer to a stress-free Christmas holiday in the city.