Tag: Philippines

Ayala Museum Guide – Makati City Philippines

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Ayala Museum

Ayala Museum is located at the heart of the Makati Central Business District, the Philippines, it provides a relaxing and educational breathing space from the busy city.

Ayala Museum showcases a huge range of displays about people of the Philippines, discovering their journey from ancient history to the present day.

The entire ethnological and archaeological displays relate to the history, culture, art, and heritage of Filipino as well as overseas collection in collaboration with artists from around the world and local artists.

Related Article: Yuchengco Museum Travel Guide

Ayala Museum Guide

The Filipinas Heritage Library

The Filipinas Heritage Library located on the sixth floor of the museum since 2013. FHL is a one-stop digital research center in the Philippines.

FHL consists of Filipiniana collections and other Philippine arts, history, and culture as well as maps and photographs.

The public can access the collections and database virtually through the online public access catalogue from a hundred partner libraries across the Philippines.

Ayala Museum is a museum in the city keeping the Philippine arts and culture which worth visiting in Makati. You can buy home décor, art books, stationery, and other gift items on the official website.

Location: Greenbelt Park, Makati Avenue, corner Dela Rosa Street, Ayala Center, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone: +63 2 7759 8288
Website: www.ayalamuseum.org

Galleries

Ayala Museum consists of 4 floors of galleries displaying both temporary or permanent arts and cultures exhibitions.

One of the highlights and permanent exhibitions is Gold of Ancestors displaying more than 1000 gold objects from cultures that existed in the Philippines before the Spanish colonization.

Gold accessories of rich ancestry like necklaces, earrings and finger rings, bracelets, and anklets. There are many objects in this exhibit that are unique and have never been seen in public.

An impressive selection of trade ceramics from Southeast Asia and China are also on display in the exhibition; A Millennium of Contact a showcase that displays more than 500 Chinese and Southeast Asian Trade Ceramics in the Philippines that long-term loans from the Roberto Villanueva Foundation.

It is one of the most comprehensive collections of Chinese and Southeast Asian wares found in the Philippines that were used for trading in the past.

Diorama

If you’re into miniatures, you will love The Philippine Diorama Experience the 60 handcrafted dioramas which designed and depict the history of the Philippines from the ancient day to the modern-day and some of which are featured in the international Google Art & Culture Exhibition Project.

In Ayala Museum you can do an audio narrative tour for a better deeply engaging experience and understanding of the events, architecture, costumes, technologies, and topographies of the times they represent.

Ayala Museum Art Collections

Art and the Order of Nature in Indigenous Philippine Textiles is an exhibition that consists of 111 textiles collections generously donated by Mercedes Zobel representing indigenous communities in the Philippines from the Cordilleras in the northern Philippines and Mindanao in the south, including the Muslim regions in Western Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago.

The exhibition is the collaboration with the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in London. Another highlight in the Ayala Museum is the exhibition featuring the collected works of Fernando Zobel, the founder of the Ayala Museum. The collection includes paintings, sketches, and photographs that display in regularly changing exhibitions.

Workshops

Ayala Museum regularly organizes workshops, talks, various history programs, contemporary art, music, and photography for adults and children which able attract people of all ages to pay a visit no matter tourists, families, or arts and culture lovers.

Ayala Museum officially launched the Ayala Museum Virtual Exhibitions, where the museum can continue bringing Philippine art and culture to the public.

The virtual exhibitions include showcasing the paintings of National Artist like Fernando Zobel: Prints & Drawings, and KISAME: Visions of Heaven on Earth showcasing the photographs of Ceiling Paintings from 17 Bohol Colonial Churches.

This virtual tour also includes the Art & the Order of Nature in Indigenous Philippine Textiles exhibition as well as Gold In Our Veins by Mark Lewis Lim Higgins.

Besides that, the museum also organizes music programs like The Rush Hour Concerts feature the Manila Symphony Orchestra in enchanting nights of live classical music, and ST’ART, introducing children to various artistic styles and the pioneers behind them through fun arts and crafts workshops.

Online Program

Ayala Museum launched Ayala Museum Kids online providing activities, videos, and more for kids to learn and discover history in more fun ways.

There are all sorts of printable able activity sheets and downloadable a module available on the website. Ayala Museum Virtual Field Trip is an online interactive field trip for kids from Grade 4 to 6 students to explore places in the Philippines and a more fun way to understand the history and cultures.


The free Education Resources are provided for students from lower school to high school, teachers, parents, or anyone interested in deeper learning.

List of Museums in Makati:

  1. Yuchengco Museum
  2. Makati Museum
  3. The Mind Museum
  4. ArtistSpace Gallery
  5. Museum of Contemporary Art and Design
  6. Finale Art File

Suggestion: Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

Frequently Asked Question

How to get to Makati?

Makati is located in the central part of Metro Manila and is accessible from neighboring cities and airports. You can either take a bus that travels across North to South of Metro Manila or take the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) to Makati if you come from other major cities of Metro Manila like Pasay, Quezon City, Pasig, and Mandaluyong. This is the cheapest way to get to Makati. If you are coming from the airport, you can take the regular metered white taxi or the premium yellow taxi.

How to get around Bacolod City?

To get around in Makati, you can take the classic Philippine jeepneys to travel around the major routes of Makati that go through different paths within the city. Bear in mind that you might need to hoop on more than one jeepney to reach your destination. Another option for you to travel to Makati would be local buses. The easiest and fastest way is to book a taxi or car from a transportation app like Grab.

What else I can do other than explore museums in Makati?

Makati is also known as urban jungle because there are few recreational areas and park in the city. There are Ayala Triangle Gardens, Salcedo Park – also known as Jaime Velasquez Park, and Washington SyCip Park. If you love shopping, Makati is also known for its luxury shopping malls and departments that feature local and international retail stores and dining options.

Conclusion

Makati is one of the most urban cities in the Philippines. It is one of the most visit cities by local and foreign tourists because it has skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment hubs.

Gracos Downhill Resort – Negros Occidental

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Gracos Downhill Resort offers tranquility, peace, and most importantly exclusivity. Located in the mountains of Hda San Antonio, Barangay Sta. Cruz, Murcia in Negros Occidental, this property is lush with trees and beautiful nature which brings an abundance of fresh air and a soothing ambiance. The pool is fed by running water keeping it fresh and rejuvenating, a truly unique experience!

There are a lot of things you can see when you go to Gracos. Before you reach the resort, you will be greeted with a cool atmosphere surrounded by lots of trees and unique houses along the way. Because of its balance weather, the area is an ideal spot for conditioning fighter fowls, farming, and keeping other live stocks.

What to see

126 Rainbow stairs

Take the challenging 126 steps reaching the top of a hill. Once you get to the top you can see the bird’s eye view of the resort.

Beautiful gardens

Gracos Downhill Resort is designed with well-maintained gardens full of colorful flora.

Funny wood signs

Take a photo of you or your friend with a background of these hugot lines, funny dramatic statements expressing love, heartbreak, and misery.

Bird watching

Gracos is surrounded by tall trees which makes it a good spot for watching different species of birds.

Where to eat

Gracos Downhill Resort offers delicious food and drinks in their canteen. Enjoy the best traditional Filipino
cuisines including tapsilog, longsilog, tinolang manok, and sisig or international dishes like beef nachos,
pizza, and spaghetti. They also offer the best beverages like hot or cold coffee, fruit juices, milk tea, soft drinks, and many more.

Menu

Gracos Downhill Resort Rates

Entrance ₱50

  • free entrance for 3 years old and below children
  • 20% discount for senior citizens and PWD

Corkage fee ₱300 (food and drinks)

Cottages

  • ₱400 good for 10 persons
  • ₱500 good for 15 persons

Related Content:
Best Time to travel Southeast Asian Countries

How to get to Gracos Downhill Resort

By Private Vehicle or Taxi

From Bacolod City public plaza, head south to Araneta street.
Take a left turn on Alijis road going to Murcia public market
From Murcia public market head east going to Gracos

By Public Transport

To commute from Bacolod City public plaza

  • Take a jeepney going to Libertad Public Market
  • From Libertad going to Murcia Public Market you can take Mambukal via Libertad bus
  • or Murcia via Bacolod jeepney
  • From Murcia Public Market you need to rent a tricycle going to Gracos
  • 5 to 6 persons per tricylce (₱250 per tricycle)

Other Resorts in Murcia Negros Occidental

  • Graceland Hotel and Resort
  • Mambukal Resort
  • Twin River Resort
  • Pandanon Valley Resort
  • Del Carmen Forest Park and Resort
  • Baluarte Resort

Best Time to travel Southeast Asian Countries

Posted on by Vlog Smarter

 

Southeast Asia is the geographical southeastern sub region of Asia. It consists of the regions that are south of China, east of the Indian subcontinent and north-west of Australia.

Southeast Asia has some fairly large climatic variations as you move around. Whatever time of the year you pick, you have to plan ahead to be seriously lucky to avoid bad weather altogether.

 

Contents

  1. The Weather and Climate in Southeast Asia
  2. Map of Southeast Asia
  3. Best Time to Visit Malaysia
  4. Best Time to Visit Brunei
  5. Best Time to Visit Cambodia
  6. Best Time to Visit Timor-Leste
  7. Best Time to Visit Myanmar
  8. Best Time to Visit Indonesia
  9. Best Time to Visit Laos
  10. Best Time to Visit Singapore
  11. Best Time to Visit The Philippines
  12. Best Time to Visit Thailand
  13. Best Time to Visit Vietnam
  14. Conclusion

 

The Weather and Climate

 

The climate in Southeast Asia is mainly tropical-hot and humid all year round with plentiful rainfall. Northern Vietnam and the mountainous parts of Laos and Myanmar are the only regions in Southeast Asia that feature a subtropical climate, which has a cooler winter with potential snow.

The majority of Southeast Asia has a wet and dry season caused by seasonal shifts in winds or monsoon. The tropical rain belt causes additional rainfall during the monsoon season. The rainforest is the second largest on Earth.

An exception to this type of climate and vegetation is the mountain areas in the northern region, where high altitudes lead to milder temperatures and drier landscape. Other parts fall out of this climate because they are hot.

Southeast Asia is one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change in the world. Climate change will have a big effect on agriculture in Southeast Asia such as irrigation systems will be affected by changes in rainfall and runoff, and subsequently, water quality and supply.

 

 

Map of Southeast Asia

 

 

Countries of Southeast Asia to visit for good Weather

 

Most travelers may choose to immerse themselves in big cities of the country in Southeast Asia like Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, or quite paradise in Bali, Laos, and Thailand. The best time to visit countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, and the Philippines largely depend upon dodging the crowds and avoiding the hottest, humid weather. Here is the best time to visit every country in Southeast Asia.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

 

Located near the equator, Malaysia’s climate is categorized as equatorial, being hot and humid throughout the year.
The average rainfall is 250 centimeters a year and the average temperature is 27 °C.

The best time to visit Malaysia is commonly between December to April. With spurts of rain here and there,
the weather is hot and humid most of the time throughout the year. The tropical monsoon climate of Malaysia ensures short spells of rain even in the driest season.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Brunei

 

The climate of Brunei is tropical equatorial that is a Tropical rainforest climate more subject to the Intertropical Convergence Zone than the trade winds and with no or rare cyclones.

The best time to visit Brunei is between January and May, however, the high season to travel in Brunei is between June to September. The weather between January and May is dry and warm, but not too hot.

February and March are the driest months of the entire year. This is a good time to travel in Brunei, as you will get to avoid the summer heat and the throng of tourists that come to the country during the peak season.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Cambodia

 

The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and April when it sees very little rain. During this time you’ll see clear blue skies making it a great time to enjoy a relaxing getaway on the southern coast.

The climate in Cambodia is like the rest of Southeast Asia, is dominated by monsoons, which are known as tropical wet and dry because of the distinctly marked seasonal differences. Cambodia has a temperature range from 21°C to 35°C and experiences tropical monsoons.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Timor-Leste

 

The best time to visit Timor-Leste is between May to October. Enjoy drier weather and greater visibility, before the wet season rains, sweep in to wash away roads and cloud your views. The climate is tropical and generally hot and humid.

It is characterized by distinct rainy and dry seasons. The capital, largest city, and main port is Dili and the second-largest city in the eastern town of Baucau. Timor-Leste is typically tropical with steamy days, balmy nights, and temperatures hovering between 20-30°C.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Myanmar

 

Much of the country lies between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator. It lies in the monsoon region of Asia, with its coastal regions receiving over 5,000 mm of rain annually.

Annual rainfall in the delta region is approximately 2,500 mm, while the average annual rainfall in the dry zone in central Myanmar is less than 1,000 mm. The northern regions of Myanmar are the coolest, with average temperatures of 21 °C.

Coastal and delta regions have an average maximum temperature of 32 °C. The very best time of year to visit Myanmar is between November and February, with warm dry days bringing in the bulk of the country’s annual visitors. However, a visit in the ‘green season can reward those looking to explore key sites in more solitude.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Indonesia

 

The best months to visit Indonesia are May, June, and September, during the shoulder months of the dry season. You’ll get clear days but the islands won’t be as crowded or expensive as during peak season in July and August, nor as hot and humid so ideal for long hikes and cycle rides.

The uniformly warm waters that makeup 81% of Indonesia’s area ensure that temperatures on land remain fairly constant, with the coastal plains averaging 28°C, the inland and mountain areas averaging 26°C, and the higher mountain regions, 23°C.

Temperature varies little from season to season, and Indonesia experiences relatively little change in the length of daylight hours from one season to the next; the difference between the longest day and the shortest day of the the year is only forty-eight minutes.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Laos

 

Laos has a tropical climate, with a pronounced rainy season from May through October. Generally, monsoons occur at the same time across the country, although that time may vary significantly from one year to the next.

The best time to visit Laos is between November and April when the weather’s warm and dry throughout. River travel is best between November and January, when high water levels make passage easy along Laos’ main waterway, the Mekong River.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Singapore

 

The best time to visit Singapore is from December to June, although Singapore is a year-round destination. The months of
February to April fall within Singapore’s dry season and is typically when the country has the least amount of rain, the lowest humidity, and the most sunshine.

Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons, uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. Temperatures usually range from 23 to 32 °C.

 

 

Best Time to Visit The Philippines

 

The best time to visit the Philippines is from December to March when temperatures are around 24°C to 31°C. At this time beautiful islands and more remote areas are fully accessible. Although the dry season lasts from November to April, temperatures are high during March and April, with highs of 34°C.

 

 

Related Article
Top 10 Beautiful Islands in Asia

 

 

Best Time to Visit Thailand

Thailand is a great year-round destination, but the best weather is usually between November and April. The climate varies between the east and the west coast.

September brings the heaviest rainfall on the west coast, while the east coast gets its highest rainfall in November. Most of Thailand has a “tropical wet and dry or savanna climate” type. The majority of the south as well as the eastern tip of the east have a tropical monsoon climate. Parts of the south also have a tropical rainforest climate.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

 

While this variety makes Vietnam a year-round destination, spring is typically the best time to visit the entire country between March to April, when days are generally pleasant, temperatures are moderate and rainfall is light.

Vietnam is located in both a temperate and a tropical zone, Vietnam’s climate is characterized by strong monsoon influences but has a considerable amount of sun, a high rate of rainfall, and high humidity.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Much of Southeast Asia is within the tropical climatic zone with temperatures above 25°C throughout the year. The region is strongly influenced by the Asian monsoons, which bring a significant amount of rainfall to parts of Southeast Asia.

The period from November through February is generally the best one to visit Southeast Asia when drier, cooler weather prevails. Hot, humid weather characterizes Southeast Asia, which lies within the Tropics close to
the equator.

But for most travelers, it’s a great experience to visit Southeast Asian countries during their festivals no matter how good or bad the weather condition is.

Top 10 Beautiful Islands in Asia

Posted on by Vlog Smarter

 

Asia is a continent that is home to beautiful natural landscapes, unique cultures, ancient architecture, and food. If you are looking for an island getaway, Asia is the perfect choice for you. Here is our list of the Best Islands in Asia.

 

Top 10  Most Beautiful Islands in Asia

Top 10 Beautiful Islands in Asia

 

 

Want to travel on budget? Checkout!

CHEAPEST PLACES TO TRAVEL TO IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

 

1. Sipadan Island, Malaysia

 

Sipadan Island is located on the northeast coast of Malaysia Borneo, Sabah. When you visit Sipadan Island, scuba diving is one of the things that you must not miss. It is described as one of the ideal and top rankings for scuba diving spots. Sipadan Island is well-known for its incredible marine life.

In 1933, this island was declared as a bird sanctuary by the government of North Borneo. You simply should not miss spotting amazing birds, such as Sunbirds, Sea Eagles, colorful Kingfishers, and many other exotic birds. You will find it fun to enjoy a snorkeling experience in the fascinating deep-sea waters of this amazing island. 

Best Time To Visit: March to October
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, bird-watching.

 

 

2. Similan Islands, Thailand

 

Similan Islands are also known as Koh Similan is one of the largest archipelago islands in Asia. Similan Islands are made up of 9 granite islands located Northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. The islands were declared as Mu Ko Similan National Park in 1982 and ranked as one of the best scuba diving destinations in Asia.

It is a paradise for scuba divers and beach lovers with its turquoise clear water, fine white sand, breathtaking marine life, and impressive rock formations. You may spot various amazing marine species like small sharks, sea turtles, Nemo fishes, or sea snakes. If you wish to stay longer in Similan Islands, you can book an overnight liveaboard trip.

You can also hike various nature trails that lead you to a stunning view over the island, bay, and sea. Relaxing on the fine white sand beach while observing the wildlife like monkeys, bats, squirrels, and a large variety of birds.

Best time to visit: October to May
Activities: Snorkelling, deep-sea diving, trekking, liveaboard, relaxing on the beach.

 

 

3. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

 

Cat Ba Island is the largest of the 367 islands of the Cat Ba Archipelago in Hai Phong city. Lan Ha Bay is still less popular among tourists, you can go kayak or hop on the public ferry while enjoying the unspoiled nature and exploring the breathtaking landscape.

Another favorite thing to do is make a stop at the Monkey Island or known as Cat Dua Island. Cat Ba National Park is a must-visit place when traveling to Cat Ba Island, the home to a wide range of flora and fauna. You can also enjoy the beauty of the vast landscapes and seascapes.

If you are interested in Vietnamese history, you should visit the Hospital Cave which is the underground bomb-proof hospital, and as a hideout during the war.

Cannon Fort was built as a naval defense and has now become the best place to witness the view of Lan Ha Bay. Viet Hai fishing village and Cai Beo Floating Village it’s definitely a must-see spot to see around Cat Ba.

Best time to visit: February to April
Activities: Rock climbing, trekking, kayak, visit the national park, explore floating villages, enjoy eating seafood.

 

 

4. Siargao Island, the Philippines

 

Siargao Island is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines and is well-known for being the Philippiness’ surfing destination. Cloud 9 is the most famous spot and is considered one of the best surf spots in the world.

The boardwalk is the perfect place to watch pro surfers and to watch the sunset. You should not miss out on the island hopping tours to Naked Island, Guyam Island, and Daku Island. Siargao Island is home to many unspoiled islands that has powdery white sand beaches, stunning islands, and crystal clear water.

Sugba Lagoon’s crystal clear water became a popular spot for diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. Magpupungko Rock Pools is another attraction you shouldn’t leave out of your Siargao trip.

Best time to visit: March to May / July and November (surfing season).
Activities: Surfing, island hopping, diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, cliff jumping.

 

 

5. Bangka Belitung Island, Indonesia

 

Belitung island is located east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It’s surrounded by lots of tiny islands and granite rock formations. The islands are blessed with beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear water, incredible marine life, and colorful coral reefs.

Danau Kaolin is an abandoned kaoline or white clay mine with bright blue water with white sandy dunes that have become a photogenic hotspot for travelers and photographers. Spend your time relaxing on yachts or cruise ships while enjoying local cuisine and drinks at Tanjung Kelayang.

There is an iconic ancient Dutch lighthouse on Lengkuas Island, you can climb up to the tower to enjoy the panoramic view of the island or go for a snorkeling swim alongside all kinds of fish. Hop onto the next island, Batu Berlayar Island known for its granite rocks which can be reached by boat in just 10 minutes from Lengkuas Island.

It is well known for its resembled sailing ship granite rocks. When you visit Belitung, do not miss to try their famous Manggar Coffee that is not only loved by tourists but also locals.

Best time to visit: April to October
Activities: Snorkelling, diving, islands hopping, enjoy local cuisines, hop on yacht or cruise ship, enjoy Manggar Coffee.

 

 

6. Orchid Island, Taiwan

 

Orchid Island is also known as Lanyu is located off the southeastern coast of the main island of Taiwan. The island is the home of the Yami people which are also known as Tao indigenous tribes. For those interested in seeing the indigenous tribes’ culture of Taiwan, there’s no better place than Orchid Island where the Tao has lived for hundreds of years.

If you visit at the right time, you can witness the Flying Fish Festival, the Millet Harvest Festival, or the Boat Launching Festival. The underwater beauty of corals and marine life have made Orchid Island the best scuba diving spot.

If you are lucky, you will encounter humpback whales and green sea turtles. You can rent and ride a scooter around the island to check out the amazing rock formations sights and caves along the coast. It definitely offers a unique experience in Taiwan.

Best time to visit: April to October
Activities: Snorkelling, diving, riding around the island, admiring rock formations and caves, exploring caves, enjoying local cuisines, seeing and experiencing the indigenous tribe culture.

 

 

7. Jeju Island, South Korea

 

Jeju Island, Korea’s favorite domestic holiday destination for local and international travelers. Jeju is a place full of stunning nature, scenic landscapes, museums, parks, and great food. A trip to Jeju isn’t complete without hiking up to Seongsan Ilchulbong or “Sunrise Peak” to watch the sunrise over the sea. Hiking Hallasan Mountain is an experience that adventure lovers won’t regret.

The UNESCO-listed Manjanggul Lava-Tube Cave is one of the most visited landmarks. You can watch the Haeneyo (female free-diver who mostly are over 60) that make a living by catching abalone, sea urchin, sea cucumber, or octopus.

Jeju Loveland is a sex-themed sculpture outdoor park that provides a proper approach to sex culture and it is decorated with a lot of beautiful artworks. You are recommended to visit the park when the weather is good. Jeju Natural Stone Art Museum is one of the must-visit museums in Jeju Island. If you are a foodie, you must try the authentic food and local specialties when you visit Jeju Island.

Best time to visit: November to May
Activities: Snorkelling, diving, trekking, watching sunrise or sunset, exploring caves, enjoying local cuisines, visiting museums and parks, enjoying local food.

 

 

8. Havelock Island, India

 

White sands, crystal clear waters, serene mangroves – these are words that one would often associate with beaches in Havelock Island. Havelock Island or Swaraj Dweep is located about 70 km north of the capital city, Port Blair.

The rich and diverse marine life of Havelock Island has always been one of the major factors to attract people who love snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach lovers. Paddle through a mangrove forest in a kayak to observe local flora and fauna.

You can hop on a seaplane or ferry to witness the only active volcano in India at Barren Island. For those who are looking for rest and relaxation, the trip must not miss visiting Neil Island which is known as the “Vegetable Bowl” of Andamans because the rich ecosystem has numerous species of fishes, sea creatures, and coral reefs, and pristine beaches.

Long Island is a perfect destination for nature lovers who might love to do forest camping, beach camping, trekking, and exploring the local art and culture. Visit the beaches on Havelock Island to watch the magnificent sunrise or sunset views be an ideal choice for newlyweds or couples.

Best time to visit: March to May
Activities: Snorkelling, scuba diving, kayak, witnessing the active volcano, exploring and relaxing on beaches, watching sunrise or sunset, camping, trekking.

 

Recommended Article:
Places you MUST visit in Southeast Asia

 

9. Ubin Island, Singapore

 

Ubin Island or Pulau Ubin is a hotspot for those who want to escape from the bustle of urban life in Singapore. Pulau Ubin is one of the last remaining villages or kampung and an abandoned quarry that offer lush greenery and abundant wildlife.

You will spot some wild animals like monkeys, hornbills, bats, owls, wild boars when going on a bike tour around the island. If you love kayaking, go on a kayak tour to explore the mangrove forest. If you are lucky, you will get to spot some wild animals such as otters, monitor lizards, kingfishers, and even dolphins.

Chek Jawa is one of Singapore’s richest natural ecosystems, filled with all kinds of flora and fauna across six different habitats. You can walk through the boardwalk and explore the marine wildlife along the trails. Climb up the 20-meter tall Jejawi Tower for panoramic views. There’re plenty of other things to do in the area as well

Best time to visit: January to October
Activities: Kayak, go for a bike tour, explore the marine animals, camping, trekking.

 

 

10. Koh Rong Island, Cambodia

 

Koh Rong Island is the largest in Ream National Park, Cambodia. The national park is a biodiversity hotspot, there are thousands of species of flora and fauna. The iconic Koh Rong is home to many species of marine life making it an ideal destination for all marine lovers.

You can go to the Koh Rong Dive Center where you can either learn fun dives or PADI training courses. Kayaking over to the Koh Toch is another highlight on the island. Those adventure lovers can go jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and test their nerves at the High Point Rope Park.

In Koh Rong, you can see the amazing natural phenomenon is the bioluminescent plankton on the beach at night. You can either relax on the beach while enjoying the sea breeze and views or try on the Blob Jump at the Tree House Bungalow. Koh Rong Island also offers an exciting nightlife scene that will enhance your night-outs when here.

Best time to visit: May to November
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayak, jungle trekking, exploring the marine life, camping, trekking, nightlife.

The 6 Most Instagrammable Spots In Makati City

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Makati City is the financial heart of the Philippines which incentivizes them to beautify the area to keep visitors happy and confident in the city. That’s great news for Instagrammers as they look for places to up their picture game on their social media.

Not every place in Makati City is Instagrammable and it might be hard to stand out when everyone is looking around the same place. These most Instagrammable spots are hot among influencers for a good reason and that’s because they are just so aesthetically pleasing.

You won’t find a better place to take your Instagram pictures in this part of Southeast Asia so let’s look into the # most Instagrammable spots in Makati City to boost your Instagram to the top level right now. 

 

 

6 Most Instagrammable Spots You Need To Check Out

 

1. Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church

 

This 400-year-old church is one of the most famous landmarks in Southeast Asia and has withstood the test of time though it has been through the Philippine’s worst. It’s surprising to see something like this in a modern-day city but that’s the aesthetic part about it.

Rustic and classical, the Guadalupe Church is an old baroque-style Roman Catholic church for those of the religious and not alike. The hidden heritage of Makati City can be found behind the walls of the church for those who are curious enough to seek answers.

Not only will it make your Instagram stand out, but it’s also a very popular place for couples to get married too.

 

 

2. Ayala Museum

 

Whenever you’re around Makati City and you ask around for a nice aesthetic place to take pictures at, Ayala Museum is usually the first place mentioned by everyone. Not only is the place pleasing to the eyes, but it also contains the most beautiful of Filipino culture.

Enjoy the most creative minds of the Philippines as well as the rich history of the lands. The building is filled with anything from modern-day art to contemporary art that describes the many aspects of the Philippines clearly.

Imagine having well-known pieces like the ‘Gold of Ancestors’ featured on your Instagram. Not long now before your page blows up and gets viral.

 

 

Recommended Article

7 Best Places in Southeast Asia

 

 

3. Ayala Triangle Gardens

 

Nothing brightens up an Instagram feed like the image of the great outdoors. Ayala Triangle Gardens houses a collection of plant life that will allow social media enthusiasts to take a step back from the concrete walls of the city.

You’ll always see the park full of life as people come around to enjoy the scenery, greenery, or just take a nice stroll for better overall fitness. The Gardens are especially lively during the festive seasons as decorations are put up to suit the mood of the holidays.

The restaurants around here are also a great place to spice up your feed especially with how their unique designs help them to stand out. Places such as Blackbird Restaurant at the Nielson Tower is a good place to start.

 

4. Salcedo Saturday Market

 

Speaking of something more natural, the Salcedo Saturday Market is also full of greens, reds, yellows, and other colors. The marketplace is so aesthetically pleasing and what Instagram page is complete without a food section.

After you’re done filling your camera space with the raw natural ingredients, the cafes surrounding you will complete the look. Walk around and take a few pictures here and there around the local shops, you’ll be surprised at what you can find around the area.

 

5. Z Hostel Roofdeck

If you’re looking to finish your Makati City carousel with a picture of the entire area, Z Hostel Roofdeck has just the right view to do so. You can see the entirety of Makati City in its glorious state and the atmosphere is just right too.

Even if you’re not looking for a city photo, the Roof deck itself should be included on your Instagram if you want to stay hip and up to date. Millennials love the design of the place especially those who like to party.

 

 

6. Habitual Coffee

Habitual Coffee is what I would consider being the most optimally designed modern-day coffee shop. It’s the perfect cafe for people who want to up their Instagram game and wow their friends with a minimalist lifestyle.

The bare concrete and industrial beams are not what you think of when you think of a “coffee shop” but the simple design is just perfect for the job. The best part about this cafe is the quiet ambiance if you want to bring a friend over for coffee as well.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. What is Makati City famous for?

Makati City is the financial heart of the Philippines and it’s famous for the skyscrapers, entertainment hubs, huge shopping malls, and entertainment hubs. It’s also famous for its diverse culture due to people coming from all around the world for business and leisure purposes.

2.Is Makati City safe for photography?

Makati City is considered to be a very safe area in the day, but you should be more aware when the sun goes down. Many have lost their belongings such as wallets, phones, and even cameras at night. Locals also lament the fact that authorities such as the police are unreliable during the night so it’s best to keep yourself safe.

3.Can you take photographs anywhere in Makati City?

Unlike some areas that charge photographers a fee for the view, Makati City is completely free and open to people who want to post the wonderful city on their Instagram feed.

 

 

Conclusion

Instagram lovers rejoice at the beautiful Makati City of the Philippines as you have struck gold when it comes to one of the most Instagrammable places in Southeast Asia. There is so much to see and capture with your cameras to wow your followers.

Just make sure to always stay safe and take care of your belongings while strolling around. Don’t be afraid to explore the city as well as you might find something worthwhile to add to your carousel.