The Essential Guide to Makati City

Welcome to Makati City! If you're planning to move to Makati City, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Makati City has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Makati City.

Makati City, the financial hub of the Philippines, is a bustling metropolis teeming with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and cultural sites. One of the city's most popular attractions is the Ayala Museum, which houses a vast collection of Philippine art, ethnographic displays, and historical artifacts. The Ayala Triangle Gardens, a lush urban park, is a perfect spot for relaxation amidst the city's hustle and bustle. For shopping enthusiasts, the Greenbelt Mall and Glorietta offer a wide range of local and international brands, while the Salcedo Saturday Market and Legazpi Sunday Market are must-visit spots for foodies and bargain hunters. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Yuchengco Museum and the Pinto Art Museum, which showcase contemporary and indigenous Philippine art. The Jaime C. Velasquez Park, also known as Salcedo Park, is a green oasis in the heart of the city, hosting a popular weekend market and various community events.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Makati City is vibrant and diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. For fine dining, Antonio's is a must-visit, offering exquisite Filipino and international cuisine in an elegant setting. The Blackbird at the Nielson Tower, housed in a restored pre-war building, serves up a fusion of European and Asian dishes. For a more casual dining experience, Manam Comfort Filipino and Locavore serve up innovative takes on traditional Filipino dishes. The nightlife in Makati is equally exciting, with a plethora of bars and clubs to choose from. The Blind Pig is the city's first speakeasy, offering a wide range of craft cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting. For beer lovers, the Poblacion district is home to a number of craft beer pubs like Polilya and Alamat Filipino Pub and Deli. Z Hostel's rooftop bar offers stunning city views, while Dulo MNL is a popular spot for live music and performances.

Recreational activities in Makati City are as diverse as its residents and visitors. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy jogging or cycling at the Ayala Triangle Gardens, or join a yoga class at the Urban Ashram. For those interested in arts and culture, workshops and performances are regularly held at the Ayala Museum and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. The Makati Sports Club offers facilities for tennis, squash, swimming, and other sports. Golfers can tee off at the Manila Golf Club or the Makati Golf Club. For a more laid-back activity, the Greenbelt Park and the Washington Sycip Park offer serene spots for picnics and leisurely strolls. The Mystery Manila in Jupiter Street offers an exciting escape room experience, while the Ball Pit Manila is a fun-filled playground for both kids and adults. For movie buffs, the Greenbelt 3 Cinemas and the Power Plant Cinemas offer the latest local and international films.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Makati City: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Makati City often join various clubs and activities to socialize and meet new people. These include sports clubs such as golf, tennis, and swimming clubs, as well as fitness centers and gyms. There are also cultural clubs that focus on art, music, and literature, and social clubs that organize events and parties.Many expats also participate in community service and volunteer work, which is a great way to give back to the community and meet like-minded individuals. There are numerous non-profit organizations and charities in Makati City that welcome the help of expats.Language classes are another popular activity among expats. Learning the local language, Tagalog, not only helps them to communicate better with locals, but also provides an opportunity to meet other expats and locals.Expats also often attend networking events and business seminars, which are frequently held in Makati City due to its status as a business hub. These events provide opportunities to meet professionals from various industries.In addition, there are several expat groups and communities in Makati City that organize regular meetups and events. These groups are often based on nationality, but there are also groups for expat women, expat families, and other specific demographics.Expats also meet people through their children's schools, as many international schools in Makati City have active parent-teacher associations and organize regular events.Lastly, many expats meet people simply by exploring the city and its many restaurants, bars, and shopping centers. Makati City is known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene, which attracts a diverse crowd of locals and expats alike," said one expat living in Makati City.

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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Makati City is vibrant and exciting. The city is known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shopping centers. The cost of living is relatively low compared to Western countries, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live comfortably on a budget. Makati City is also a hub for business and finance, making it an ideal location for digital nomads who work in these sectors. The city has a robust infrastructure with reliable internet, which is crucial for remote work. The local population is generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners, and English is widely spoken, making it easier for expats to communicate and integrate into the local culture. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, with parks and green spaces scattered throughout the city.Despite the hustle and bustle, Makati City also offers quiet residential areas, providing a peaceful retreat from the city's busy commercial districts. These areas often feature modern condominiums and apartments that cater to the needs of expats and digital nomads.Healthcare in Makati City is of a high standard, with a number of reputable hospitals and clinics. The city also has an efficient public transportation system, making it easy to get around.However, like any city, Makati City also has its challenges. Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and the city can be quite crowded. The tropical climate may also take some getting used to, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year.Overall, life for expats and digital nomads in Makati City offers a blend of modern conveniences, cultural experiences, and a welcoming community," commented an expat living in Makati City.

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Cigna Global Health

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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