Makati City, Philippines

Got in to Manila on Monday morning on a 747. Which in itself is already a pretty good treat since I wasn't expecting a 747 for a short haul flight (HKG-MNL). Since Cathay has been slow on the upgrading of in-flight systems, and they always start with the larger, long haul planes don't they. I haven't had the pleasure of utilising one of their new stuff yet, until now that is.

I was pleasantly surprised because this new system is heaps better that the old dinosaur I've been used to. Such a pity then, that the flight is a short one. On another note, I have been wondering, whatever happened to the ice cream desserts? Another cost-cutting measure?

We arrived in town on a rainy afternoon, the bright spot being every single service staff I have came across has been smiley and friendly and non-rainy.

Glorietta Mall, Building 3 (directly opposite the entrance to Makati Shangri-la)

That's the view I got out my window at the hotel, a fitting introduction to the network of malls that could be reached on foot.

Where Bukit Bintang has many mid-sized malls plus the two giants that are Times Square and Pavilion, Makati has just as many mid-sized malls plus two behemoths which are itselves a series of malls connected by walkways to each other, each sharing names and differentiated by a number indicating which phase of development it was.

Such developments are by no means rare in our modern world, but having two of them within walking distances from each other is something new for me. The Greenbelt Mall seem to be the hip hangout, where all the bars and restaurants to be seen at are (Greenbelt 3) and where all the international labels and designer goods are (Greenbelt 3 and 4). Personally, I like the Greenbelt park, it gives the surrounding restaurants a very friendly and cosy feel in the evening light.

It really is too bad that I'm forbidden to shop... =)