LOCAL CULTURE
RELIGION
With the Philippines being a predominantly Catholic country, it would not be unusual to come across locals who do the "Sign of the Cross" when passing by any Catholic church
PICTURE PERFECT
Filipinos are fond of capturing every moment through photographs as well as having their pictures taken. Feel free to ask for a souvenir shot so you may catch the warm smiles Filipinos are known for the world over.
TAGALOG
Tagalog is the national language although English is widely spoken. A few Tagalog words will surely please your local hosts and draw smiles from them. Start with “Salamat” (Thank you) and “Kamusta” (Hello).
JEEPNEY
The Jeepney is the most popular means of public transportation in the country and is famous for its flamboyant and colorful decor thus making it one of the iconic symbols of Philippine culture.
DID YOU KNOW ?
CITY LANDMARK
InterContinental Manila is a a cultural showcase in Makati, as it is the longest standing hotel chain in the city. Designed by the country's National Artist Architect Leandro Locsin, InterCon - as the locals fondly call us, was conceptualized to accommodate the Pan-American airline crews who were frequenting the country via the old Nielsen Airport, which was then just right next door.
SAN AGUSTIN CHURCH
First built in 1571, it is the oldest known church in the country as well as being the first earthquake proof building in stone. This makes San Agustin as the only surviving 16th century edifice, and one of the Baroque churches listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
PHILIPPINE AIRLINES
Philippine Airlines took to the skies on March 15, 1941, using a Beech Model 18 aircraft amid the specter of a global war. It went on to become Asia's first airline.
AYALA TRIANGLE GARDENS
Flanked by three main thoroughfares of Makati, its 20,000 square meters of lush landscape serves as a refuge and breathing space for city-dwellers with its natural attactions of local flora.
RICE TERRACES
Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras are considered to be the "8th wonder of the world" and is inscribed as one the UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you're not comfortable with long rides, try a chopper.
WHAT TO PACK
CURRENCY
It is best to have an adequate amount of pesos before embarking on a trip - enough to cover airport incidentals. It is also a good idea to have bank notes lower than Php 100 handy for taxi fares, meals and other purchases.
SUNBLOCK
With Philippines being a tropical country, sunny skies is the norm. Pamper your skin to avoid the unwanted wrinkling, especially when you head off to that lounge chair by our poolside.
EXTRA SET OF CLOTHES
Coming in from a connecting flight? You don't want to miss that early morning meeting because of your delayed luggage. Bring an extra set of clothes with you in your hand luggage, just in case.
BOTTLED WATER
Coming in to the tropics from -5 to 36 degrees Celsius temperatures? Don't let dehydration get you. Complimentary bottles of mineral water are provided by the hotel.
PASSPORT AND OTHER DOCUMENTS
Have photocopies of your passport and other important documents ready. It is advisable to leave the original in the hotel safe. Please see the Concierge for more recommendations.