Page 45 - RCI-FlipBook-pacific

weekenders METRO MANILA, PHILIPPINES
daggers used by the Mandaya, an indigenous tribe.
When you’re craving a bite or
two, you’re spoilt for choice in Metro Manila, with everything from local delights to casual western dining and even the occasional Korean BBQ joint. Eateries like Movie Stars Café and The Singing Cooks & Waiters promise unforgettable dining adventures.
Named one of the best shopping destinations in Asia, Metro Manila is one place you can definitely shop till you drop. Ranked 3rd largest shopping centre in the world, the 16
EAT
Spiral
T: +63 2 551 5555
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard Pasay City 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines
There’s no better place to splurge than
this upscale international buffet serving up everything from French to Mediterranean cuisine. Load up on savouries like succulent Peking Duck and North Indian Tandoori, as well as confections like Marzipan and Artisan Chocolates.
Movie Stars Cafér
T: +63 2 550 1234
Seaside Blvd., SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay, Luzon 1300, Philippines
Enjoy a spirited movie-themed dining experience where every dish is an ode to a pop culture icon. Expect tongue-in-cheek names like the “Green Lantern” salad, the fiery “Hermione Granger” soup packed with shrimp and clams, and “Fight club”, a delectable club sandwich.
The Singing Cooks & Waiters
T: +63 2 832 0658
Ongpauco Bldg., Roxas Blvd near corner Sen Gil Puyat Avenue, Manila, Philippines
True to its name, The Singing Cooks & Waiters offers not only authentic Filipino food, but fun family entertainment in the form of talented staff. Sample dishes like Chicharong Bulaklak (Deep fried pork blossoms) and Pakbet Tagalog (local greens sautéed in shrimp paste) as the friendly staff serenades you with upbeat tunes.
hectare SM City North EDSA mall in Quezon alone should fulfil all your shopping needs and wants. For a retail experience with a local touch, head instead to tiangge complexes like
the one in the Greenhills shopping centre. Tiangges are small makeshift stalls where goods are sold at very low prices and can be gained by a friendly round of haggling with the store owners.
Schedule your trip between January and May, during the dry period. Situated in the tropics, the capital is susceptible to heavy rains
weekenders COSMOPOLITAN CENTRAL
RELAX
The Theatre at Solaire
T: +63 2888 8888
1 Asean Avenue, Entertainment City, Parañaque City 1701, Metro Manila, Philippines
Sit back and enjoy a refined cultural experience at this brand new, state-of-the-art theatre. Having opened its doors to the public in March 2016, the theatre is slated to play host to numerous world-renowned acts, the broadway classic Les Misérables starting it off with a bang.
EXPLORE
Greenbelt Mall
T: +63 2 757 4853
Ayala Center, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
If you’re looking for some extensive retail therapy, head to the Greenbelt Mall. The modern, eco-friendly shopping haven is divided into 5 different sections, each boasting its
own unique interior and retail specialisation. Greenbelt 1 primarily consists of electronics and fast food, while Greenbelt 4 has a more intimate setting boasting high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga.
Quiapo Church
T: +63 2 733 4434
910 Plaza Miranda, Quiapo, Manila. Philippines
Many visit the Quiapo Church, officially christened the ‘Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene’ to see the Black Nazarene, a life-sized statue of Christ carved from wood that is said to hold miraculous powers.
First built by Franciscan Missionaries using bamboo and palm, the cathedral has been rebuilt several times since. Standing strong despite demolitions, fires and earthquakes, its architecture still preserves its Spanish origins.
and even monsoon-induced flooding from June to December.
You can get to Metro Manila through direct flights to its international airport, or by boat, bus and rail from other areas of the Philippines. Getting around the city is a breeze with your choice of railway, bus or car. Alternatively, you can travel like a native with local forms of commode such as rickshaws and the more favoured jeepney.
STAY
RCI AFFILIATED RESORTS IN MANILA INCLUDE:
Astoria Plaza Suites (SD67/ SE67) Manila, Philippines
The Astoria Plaza Suites are the epitome
of luxury in an urban setting. It is your gateway to the hip, fast-paced style of Pasig City, but also has easy access to other cities, the beaches and all the attractions Luzon Island has to offer. The service is exemplary and the resort offers world-class facilities like a state-of-the-art gym, pool, spa and massage center. Café Astoria will cater
to your culinary desires, and the shops and service centers are also conveniently located for your convenience. There is live entertainment on-site, and the views from the towers are incredible.
ENDLESS VACATION 43