A short night’s sleep takes its toll. We were groggy waking up on Saturday. Breakfast in the hotel and trying out new tastes from around the world. This time E had rice, chicken and beef, probably in a Filipino way. M staying more continental, whatever that means.
After breakfast tiredness was holding on and delaying our adventures by a couple of hours. I am sure this happened to Magellan, Attila and other explorers as well from time to time.
Stepping on the MRT (metro) station of Shaw Boulevard E was slightly nervous when M wanted to take photos. The station was fairly quiet around noon and buying tickets was easy and inexpensive, 18 PHP (0,4 euro) for one person one way from Shaw Boulevard station to Ayala station. There are gates to be passed and bags to be inspected on the way. The view from the metro was exciting when passing Pasig river high above the water.
View from Ayala station towards North East
Arriving in Makati we walked around, excited to be in a new neighbourhood/town. M or E had read somewhere that it compares to Singapore, but neither had been there so the comparison was of no help. Makati was slightly more orderly and developed than Ortigas, where ME are staying.
As orderly as anywhere
It is hot in Manila in April, over 30 C. Walking in and out of shopping malls cools you down. A visit to Greenbelt mall and the surrounding area served proof that western brands and shops contribute in no way to the excitement of Manila. The main service provided by the malls so far was cooling down a sweaty Finn.
Conventional mall 1, interior
Conventional mall 2, exterior
After lunching in a fastfood joint ME were done. On the way back E got a pair of short to make life easier for his baked thighs and M got a hand fan.
The metro back worked smoothly. Passengers wait in straight lines to board the train. Several officers watch over the exercise. Having run out of water last night, a 6 liter bottle of water was bought. At the hotel a light dinner, a swim in the pool and the day was done.