Magallanes Hotels

When asked where to find the best spots in Makati, most people immediately think of Ayala Avenue. However, the city has a number of different barangays that have a lot to offer, if you can take the time to explore them thoroughly. Though some view Magallanes as just another route to reach the fancier parts of Makati, it has its own hidden gems for you to discover.

At a Glance

Magallanes Village is located at the southwestern tip of Makati City. Though it is the second smallest barangay in that cluster, it is one of the wealthier ones in the city, along with barangays Bel-Air, Dasmariñas, Forbes Park, San Lorenzo, and Urdaneta. It is bound by EDSA, Fort Bonifacio, Villamor, Dasmariñas, and Tripa de Gallina. Because of its proximity to EDSA and the South Expressway, it has become a popular route for reaching the Makati Central Business District. Though it is a predominantly residential area, it does have a few noteworthy places that travelers can check out.

How to Go

By land transportation

The easiest way to reach Magallanes is to ride the MRT-3 and alight at the aptly named Magallanes station. You could also take any bus that passes through EDSA and get down at Magallanes. If you're commuting from within Makati, you can board a jeep that plies either the "PRC Mantrade Kayamanan C" or "Waltermart-FTI" routes. Both of these routes pass by Magallanes. If you're in a hurry, you can take a taxi instead, though it will cost you a lot more especially during peak hours.

Getting Around

Because Magallanes is relatively small, it's easy to find what you're looking for just by walking around. You could also take any of the jeepneys within the area to get to your destination more quickly. However, it can get quite hot, especially during the summer. If you'd rather travel in comfort, then flagging down a taxi is your best option.

Tourist Attractions

History buffs can't miss The St. Alphonsus Mary de Liguori Parish, which was built in 1968 and designed by Architect Leandro Locsin, National Artist of the Philippines for Architecture. For those who want some rest and relaxation, you'll enjoy all of the recreational activities that Paseo de Magallanes has to offer. Those in the mood for a shopping spree will want to check out the various stores and stalls in Alphaland Southgate Mall.

Top Things to Do

Nature lovers will want to visit the Koi Village Pet Mall in Paseo de Magallanes. It houses several ponds full of koi, and you can even feed them for an affordable fee. Art aficionados should definitely check out the Silverlens Gallery, located at Chino Roces Extension not too far from Magallanes. If you're craving for more art and culture, swing by NOVA Art Gallery, which is just a jeep ride away from Alphaland Southgate Mall.

Where to Eat

In the mood for Thai Cuisine? Try out the pad thai, curry, and sticky mango with rice at Basil Authentic Thai Resto along Chino Roces Extension. If you're in the mood for some sizzling roast beef, you've got to try Dayrit's Burger & Roast Beef House located in Paseo de Magallanes. You can also try out the fantastic barbecue and rich and savory toyo rice over at Toyo Eatery, located at Chino Roces Avenue near Magallanes.

Nightlife

For a fun game of billiards and darts, head on over to B.E.C. Billiard Bar & Resto, located in in Paseo de Magallanes. If you want to try out different kinds of local and imported craft beers, you'll definitely want to visit The Bottle Shop. For those looking for a classier ambiance, Selu's Bar in Paseo de Magallanes fits the bill. Those who love spicy food will want to order their Buffalo Wings and Beef and Mushroom Salpicao.

Where to Stay

For those looking for good promos on accommodations, try The Hotel at Green Sun in nearby Barangay Dasmariñas. You could also book a spacious room at AurumOne Makati, located in nearby Barangay Bangkal.

Travel Tips

• Prepare your exact fare for less hassle-free commuting. You won't have to wait around for the driver to give you your change, especially if you're in a hurry. If you can't find enough coins, prepare the bill you can to make it easier for the driver to compute your change.

• Study the routes before heading out. It can be confusing figuring out which jeeps ply which routes, so make sure to do some research beforehand. If all else fails, don't be afraid to ask the locals for directions.

• Allot some extra time for your commute. Because the roads of Magallanes can get heavily congested, you might find yourself running late if you aren't careful. The last thing you want on your vacation is to spend hours of it in stand-still traffic.