Ask a concierge: Makati, Philippines

At the Fairmont Makati, visitors rely on concierge Rey Moraga to guide them to the best things to do, see and eat in this business-centric city – one of 17 municipalities that make up metro Manila. Here he offers expert tips for business travelers to Makati.

At the Fairmont Makati, visitors rely on concierge Rey Moraga to guide them to the best things to do, see and eat in this business-centric city – one of 17 municipalities that make up metro Manila. Here he offers expert tips for business travelers to Makati.

What should business travelers pack when heading to your city?

“Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you wish to travel by foot to the nearby corporate offices and embassies or the stock exchange. During the rainy season, from July to November, you always should have an umbrella on hand. Our tropical rains are unpredictable.”

What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?

“For a quiet business lunch near our hotel, I recommend the continental cuisine (especially the Mulwarra tenderloin) at Sala Bistro (Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center; Ph: 632 729 4888) or the Thai specialties (like prawn, pomelo and coconut salad) at People’s Palace (Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center; Ph: 632 729 2888). To celebrate a successful business deal, reserve a table at the high-end European bistro Lusso by local celebrity restaurateur Margarita Forés (Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center; Ph: 632 756 5893); try the roasted capretto. Feast on authentically Filipino fare – such as pork bagnet – at the chic bistro Kabila (Ayala Museum Complex, Makati Avenue at Dela Rosa Street; Ph: 632 757 3000). If you’re looking to impress your business partners, bring them to Vask in Bonifacio Global City (Fort Bonifacio, 11th Avenue at 39th Street; Ph: 63 2 217 6563) to enjoy cuisine from the Basque region of Spain.”

What’s something that surprises guests about your hotel?

“Our hotel and the neighboring Raffles Makati share a gallery space that features more than 1,800 artworks, particularly contemporary Filipino art. Each floor of our building also features art by different local artists.”

If business travelers only have a few hours for leisure, what must they see?

“To experience the unique sights and sounds of the city, I recommend hopping on one of our jeepneys, flamboyantly decorated buses that we think of as national symbols. Several jeepney lines travel on a loop around the Makati business district. If time allows, make sure to stop at the Ayala Museum for a view into Filipino history and tradition.”

What’s the best option for outdoor exercise in your city?

“Take a morning jog along the Ayala Triangle and through its garden oasis in the heart of the city. Or see the city on two wheels. At the Fairmont Makati, we’re developing a biking program as part of our brand’s quest to provide guests with a healthy environment.”

Business know-how

Concierge Rey Moraga’s top tips for getting business right in Makati:

Tip 1: Metro Manila is composed of 17 different cities, and traffic can get very tricky. Plan ahead to ensure you have the time and proper transportation to get to your meetings on schedule.

Tip 2: Although Filipinos are excellent English-speakers, they appreciate visitors learning a few local words and phrases. Kamusta means “How are you?” (similar to the Spanish cómo estás). Ending your conversation with salamat (meaning “thank you”) could help you close an important business deal.

Tip 3: Filipinos love to eat and may offer food as a polite gesture at any time. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited for a morning snack just after finishing a business breakfast.

 

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