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Manila - An Americanized Asia

Makati
I am currently on a business trip in Makati City, part of Metro Manila. It is one of the most populous places in Manila and is the financial hub of Philippines. A walk down the Ayala Avenue (called the "Wall Street" of Philippines) is an experience in itself. 

A lot of malls, including the one nearest to me - Greenbelt Mall, are located in Makati. A walk around the place and you can see all the major brands trying to find space in this busy city. Starbucks, Citi Bank, McDonald, KFC and various other American companies are huddled up together.

Ayala Ave
The driving is done the American-way too, on the other side of the road, for those of us who are more comfortable driving on the left side the "wrong" side driving can create a mental havoc. And of course the traffic is crazy! (I drive in India - so doesn't bother me)

For a second you might feel you're in some populous city in the US of A! But....there is the Asian side of Manila you can't miss. There are a lot of bikes that do the "old weaveroo" (I'm using this phrase from the movie I Love You Man, this is the best way anyone has described what bikers do - zigzagging though the traffic).

Jeepney
Another interesting and a popular mode of transport is Jeepney. There is an interesting story on Wikipedia how Jeepneys were made from left over US military Jeeps from World War 2. And the "ney" in Jeepney comes from the crowded knee-to-knee seating. 

All this makes Manila (I haven't explored other parts of Philippines) an interesting mix of cultures from east and the west. So watch out for this city as there are just too many surprises it holds!



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Location: BSA Tower, 108 Legazpi Street, Makati City 1200, Philippines

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