Joanna James
Makati, the financial hub of the Philippines' is famed for its soaring skyscrapers and opulent shopping malls. However, the city has much more activities for people of all sorts.
With inspiration from the Hyde Park in the UK, the Ayala Triangle Gardens is a two hectare urban park in the heart of the business centre. Shaped like a triangle (hence the name), this public garden was once an airport. No trace remains of the airport now except the airport's control tower, which is now the Filipinas Heritage Library and the rest of the area is covered with golden palms, fir trees and other lush vegetation. Since the Ayala Triangle Gardens is located in the middle of the Central Business District, one can easily witness social events of all sorts and it is also in close proximity to hotels such as the Berjaya Makati Hotel. The gardens are especially popular during the month of December as many Christmas related events take place.
Located close to the Ayala Triangle Gardens, the Ayala Museum is a place one can seek refuge from the bustling noise and activity of the rest of the city. The museum is home to some of the finest pieces of art in the country as well as some of the best archaeological findings. These include the Gold of Ancestors, an exhibit of more than a thousand gold objects and a fine selection of ceramics among many other exhibits. The museum regularly hosts programs that elaborate on the country's art and history. It is recommended you check the screening dates beforehand. Added to that, paintings of well known local artists such as Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo are regularly showcased at the museum.
Set in the midst of a picturesque garden that is akin to something out of a fantasy novel, the Greenbelt Chapel is the spiritual home of this Catholic city. Mass is held about three times a day and the atmosphere is quite calming. The first floor is exclusively for local brands that you can support. Close to the chapel is a shopping mall, which shows how commercialism coexists with Christianity in the city. It is a simple task to find a good hotel in Manila Philippines close to the Greenbelt Chapel.
The Guadalupe Church is a church with a long-standing history in the Philippines. Built all the way back in 1601, it is one of the oldest churches in the country and is a perfect example of classic Baroque architecture. The eccentric architecture style is easily visible in every aspect of the church while the monastery adjacent is quite a sight to marvel at too thanks to its vintage statues and windows. Other than baroque architecture, the Guadalupe Church also has signs of Neo-Romanesque-Gothic style embedded in its structure. The huge buttress in the centre is an example of this.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
