Directions, Routes, Maps, Shortcuts in Metro Manila

Travel Tips (Part 2) - Googly Gooey Style!

2012-01-14T02:13:00.000-08:00

And now here's Part 2 of the travel tips brought to you by MetroManilaDirections.com and illustrated by our awesome and talented friends from GooglyGooeys.com. Check out Part 1 in case you missed it or if you want a refresher:)

So again, remember:
6. Only bring what you need!
7. Budget your trip
8. Get some rest before you travel
9. If it's a foreign territory, bring a map with you
10.Enjoy! Leave your worries behind and focus on your travel

Once again, thanks so much Ponggo and Tipsy for this wonderful collab! :) Hoping for more amazing illustrations from you guys! And everyone, remember, it's more fun in the Philippines, but you make it more more fun if you follow our Travel Tips:)

Click here for Part 1

Travel Tips (Part 1) - Googly Gooey Style!

2012-01-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

It is indeed more fun in the Philippines and there is no better way to support that than traveling around the country. Start here in Metro Manila, where there are a lot of hidden gems! But before that, here are some tips to make your traveling fun and hassle-free, illustrated by the awesome couple Ponggo and Tipsy at Googlygooeys.com!

So remember:
1. Plan out your trip, make a list of things to do.
2. Organize Carpools
3. Charge thy gadgets
4. Remember the key numbers in case of emergency
5. Make sure you're ready for the weather.

Oh by the way, speaking of hidden gems, well, our friends at Googly Gooeys recently bagged the Hidden Gem award in the recent Nuffnang Asia Pacific Blog Awards. Make sure that you check out their awesome illustrations at GooglyGooeys.com. Follow them on twitter and like their Fan page to get more updates!

Here is Part 2!

Commemorative One-Peso Coins - Have You Seen One Already?

2012-01-11T18:00:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the new one-peso coin? According to the Bangko Central ng Pilipinas (BSP), this one-piso legal tender coin commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal. Ironically, this was launched on Rizal's death month (December last year).

The face of the coin features the portrait of Rizal and the markings "150 years", "Republika ng Pilipinas" and "1861-2011". On the reverse side, it will show the new BSP seal, "1-piso" and "2011.

What do you think? Have you seen one already? Let us know through the comments section.

New DOT Tourism Slogan and Logo: It's More Fun in the Philippines

2012-01-05T20:25:00.001-08:00

The Department of Tourism, spearheaded by Secretary Ramon "Mon" Jimenez, has just launched today the new campaign line to boost the tourism industry in the country. As a great start for 2012, the campaign aims to get tens of millions of tourists by 2016. Developed by BBDO Guerrero, the slogan is It's More Fun In The Philippines.

The campaign aims to answer the question "Why Philippines?" or "Bakit Pilipinas"?

Secretary Jimenez has been sending hints the past few days through his twitter account @MonJQuotes:

The new tourism line is grounded on basic, truthful communication between two persons

The new tourism line is a campaign for people who haven't seen the #Philippines.

The new tourism line allows the Filipinos to take the line and own it to themselves

The new tourism line is not a manufactured line; it's drawn from the way Filipinos have touched the lives of tourists.

And we totally agree! And yes, one of the things they want to showcase is: COMMUTING. MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

What do the netizens say about the slogan?

Check out the It's More Fun In the Philippines website.
What do you think of the new slogan? Let us know through the comments. Start creating your own memes!

Ate Vangie Strikes Again: Giving Directions Pinoy Style

2012-01-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, the Pinay version of Siri, Ate Vangie, strikes again and this time she shows us how a Pinoy virtual assistant would provide directions. All we can say is that Ate Vangie hit the right spot!
Filipinos provide directions in a "photographic" (or anything sensory) manner, meaning, we find it easier to provide directions based on what we usually see, hear, or feel. Here in Metro Manila Directions, we try our best to provide directions in a way that is methodical but sometimes it's better to just say: "turn right when you see the house with the red gate", "ride the tricycle that you see in front of the police station", or "enter the first parlor when you get off from the jeepney". Sometimes we find ourselves answering "it takes 10 minutes" rather than "it's five kilometers away" when we're asked how far a place is. This is because Filipinos are more sensitive to habits learned and would rather refer to that than give formal directions.

Bourne Legacy Shooting in Metro Manila

2012-01-03T02:17:00.000-08:00

MMDA chairman revealed over the news that the fourth installment of the Hollywood film "Bourne Legacy" will be shot over 8 locations in Metro Manila. The film stars Jeremy Renner as the new CIA agent Aaron Cross, subbing for Matt Damon, who has starred in the first three installments. It will also star A-list celebrities Rachel Weisz and Edward Norton.

According to Chairman Francis Tolentino, the film will be shot in Intramuros, Navotas fishport, Marikina City Market, San Andres Market, R. Magsaysay Blvd, Ayala Avenue, Nagtahan and Pasay-Taft Rotonda. Among these places, Pasay-Taft Rotonda was highlighted to need the biggest facelift. Everyday commuters and motorist would attest to the fact that this area is a cause of headache during rush hour, add to that the fact that it's very crowded. Ironically, this area will be used for a car chase scene. I'm sure it's better to just leave the car and run after the criminals. :)

UPDATE: There are also reports that Bourne Legacy will shoot in Palawan. There will also be a motorcycle chase scene in Jones Bridge and a helicopter scene over Pasig River.
Some online sources cited that Rachel Weisz's husband, Daniel Craig, more known for portraying James Bond, was in town [week of 1/9]

Here are the schedules of the shoot (based on the fact that they will be closed to vehicular traffic):

1. January 11-15: San Andres St.
2. January 14: San Andres cor. Quirino and Taft Ave
3. January 15: Leveriza Street, from Balingkit to San Andres
4. January 18 and 19: J. Bocobo corner Remedios streets
5. January 25: Riverside Road, Real and Sta. Lucia Streets in Intramuros
6. February 5: Jones Bridge
7. February 8-15: Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard
8. February 17 and 18: Riverside Road, Real and Sta. Lucia Streets in Intramuros

What's your take on these folks? Excited?:)We have plotted in Google Maps, these 8 points. Not sure if these will be the exact spots but we'll find out soon.:)

From ABS-CBN, Manila Bulletin and Philstar

10 New Year's Resolutions for Metro Manila for 2012

2011-12-31T11:10:00.000-08:00

First of all, happy New Year!!!

2012. Another year, another chance to make things a bit better, if not perfect. So while you're listing down or already living your New Year's resolution, we also listed down our own version of New Year's resolutions, but for Metro Manila. We asked readers to tell us what they think should be included in this list as well. At some point, we realized that this isn't actually a set of resolutions, but more of wishes. Nevertheless, we feel that this list sums up our daily agonies. So if you agree, please tweet, post, and share.

For 2012, we hope:

1. That Metro Manila will be more traveler-friendly. As a start, more signposts. Seriously. Meaningful ones – not those signs along C5 that tell us that a certain building on Ayala Avenue has the same significance as Alabang. Also, more unified rules or simply speaking, more consistency across the cities and the municipality of Pateros.

2. That there will be more disciplined buses along EDSA. We understand that it would be hard to regulate them through a public agency that's why they're still privatized until now. But please, the number of buses on EDSA is way too much to handle. We hope that the MMDA be more stern in apprehending buses that do not follow the yellow lane rule. Are we going to waste money on concrete paint?

3. That we enjoy a more efficient train system. We are thankful that the rail systems (MRT, LRT1, LRT2, PNR) in the Metro are already connected but of course, we can do better. Considering that hundreds of thousands of commuters ride the trains every month, maybe DOTC can take a look at a more efficient ticketing system, controlled rush hour flow, and frequent train rotation.

4. That we find more ways to manage the traffic situation in the Metro. We know that the MMDA is trying its best to control traffic, one of which being the number coding system. However, we are not really sure how effective it is now, especially since every day, when we think that 20% of the vehicles are banned from the streets, we don't really feel any difference.

5. That road widening, construction, repair, or whatever-our-congressmen-or-DPWH-would-like-to-call-it will be more motorist-friendly. Bottlenecks happen when there's some project going on and it takes twice the amount of time to travel. We also hope the anti-epal bill gets signed this 2012!

6. That [connected to #5] you do road projects when it's not raining. We do not know why you want to do it during the rainy season when vehicle volume sort of doubles and traffic seems to be slower.

7. That roads become more pedestrian-friendly. Pedestrians do not have the means to safely cross the road, therefore, they play with life and death whenever they cross the street. There aren't enough footbridges and in this country and drivers think that they are more important than the pedestrians. Sidewalks are used more for made-up stalls, parking spaces, or beautified ornaments, and not for walking travelers. [Case in point: Why is there a pedestrian lane on C-5/Greenmeadows?]

8. That [connected to #7], pedestrians don't just cross the road wherever and whenever they want to. Use the pedestrian lane, wait for the "walk" signal, and use the footbridges (you paid for those with your taxes).

9. That drivers use their signal lights. If they're not going to use them, let's just smash them.

10. That our beloved government agencies find ways to lower the toll fees. Enough said.

That’s it. Do you have other things to wish for this year? Add them through the comments section below. Once again, thanks for the support - your one and only source of directions on the web. :)

Mashup of Music in 2011

2011-12-26T00:08:00.000-08:00

2011 is almost done and one way to recap is to check out the top 25 hits of 2011. The much awaited mashup of DJ Earworm is now out:) Just sharing with you guys!:) I surely bet this is also the music that defined our life in Metro Manila. Hoping for a brighter and more generous 2011. Great party mix to countdown to the new year 2012!

See 2009 and 2010 mash-ups after the cut

2010

2009

How To Get Home?

2011-12-02T00:21:00.000-08:00

There's absolutely no place like home. And what more when you're coming home after years of being away from your loved ones. Christmas is already around the corner and we at Metro Manila Directions are with all the Filipino families in fervently waiting for their loved coming home from abroad.

Coca-Cola touched our hearts again and released this viral video of Overseas Filipino Workers (more known as OFWs) coming from abroad for the first time after many years. You will be touched by their stories, as well as the moments when they meet their families again. Even if you are not a Filipino, you will feel the spirit of being with the family especially in this time of the year. Share, tumblr, stumble, tweet the love.

[Disclosure: This is not a paid advertisement or whatsoever.]

Map of Cinemas in Metro Manila

2011-11-29T10:12:00.000-08:00

Here's a map and list of all the cinemas in Metro Manila.
Schedule your travel around movie showtimes and distance to your location in Metro Manila.

See the list of all cinemas in Metro Manila below the map. (Double click to zoom)

Caloocan
Ever Gotesco Grand Central Mall

Las Piñas
Star Mall Las Piñas
SM South Mall

Makati
Cash and Carry
Greenbelt 1
Guadalupe Commercial Centre
Glorietta 4
Power Plant Mall
Greenbelt 3
WalterMart

Malabon
Robinsons Citisquare

Mandaluyong
Robinson's Place Pioneer
Shangri-La Plaza Mall
SM Megamall
Star Mall EDSA
The Podium
The Market Place

Manila
Robinson's Place
Cinerama Cineworld-Isetann
SM San Lazaro
Ever Gotesco
SM City Manila
Tutuban Center
SM Sta Mesa

Marikina
Blue Wave Mall
SM City Marikina

Muntinlupa
Festival Supermall
Alabang Town Center
Starmall Alabang
Metropolis Alabang
SM Supercenter Muntinlupa

Parañaque
Pearl Plaza
SM City Sucat
SM City Bicutan

Pasay
SM Mall of Asia
Newport Mall

Pasig
Ever Gotesco Ortigas
Robinson's Metro East

Quezon City
Eastwood Citywalk and Mall
Ali Mall
Gateway Mall
Ayala Trinoma Mall
SM City North EDSA The Block
WalterMart North EDSA
Robinson's Galleria
Ever Gotesco Commonwealth
SM City Fairview
Robinsons Novaliches
SM Novaliches

San Juan
Greenhills Promenade and Theatre Mall

Taguig
Market! Market!

Valenzuela
SM Supercenter Valenzuela

Parañaque To Implement Number Coding on Certain Roads on Dec. 1

2011-11-29T01:28:00.000-08:00

Addressing the heavy traffic in the city, particularly in the Bicutan area, the City Council of Parañaque has passed an ordinance to implement the Unified Vehicle Volume Reduction Program(UVVRP) or the Number Coding Scheme in the vicinity of Bicutan Interchange.

MMDA will now be observing the number coding scheme in the following area.
1. From Dona Soledad Avenue: France -> Michael Rua -> Japan --> Sto. Dominic Savio -> Pres. Aguinaldo -> San Antonio Avenue. Note that these streets are in Barangay Don Bosco.
2. From Bicutan Interchange: Doña Soledad Ave -> Doña Soledad Extension -> E.Rodriguez St (in Barangay Moonwalk
3. East Service Rd from FTI Parañaque area to Dr. Santos Ave (Bicutan)
4. West Service Rd from Merville Park Subdivision Parañaque area to Dr.Santos Avenue (Bicutan).

Note that truck ban will be implemented in the aforementioned thoroughfares. Window hours will be the usual 10am-3pm.

PLEASE SHARE TO YOUR FRIENDS TO AVOID ANY PROBLEMS. CHRISTMAS SEASON IS COMING SOON!
See below a map view courtesy of Google Maps (double click map to zoom):

See link for the MMDA announcement

Group Buying Sites in Metro Manila

2011-08-23T20:45:00.000-07:00

In line with our goal to give you the best that Metro Manila has to offer, we have compiled all the group buying sites that we know. There are a lot of places in Metro Manila and through these group buying sites, you'll actually discover a lot of new places in the metro.

Click on the logos to go to the websites:

URL: http://awesome.ph/
Rebel Yell: Awesome Experiences at Awesome Prices
Online Contact: support@awesome.ph

URL: http://www.atcrazy.com/
Rebel Yell: N/A
Online Contact: whocares@atcrazy.com

URL: http://www.buyanihan.com/
Rebel Yell: The Best For Less
Online Contact: support@buyanihan.com

URL: http://www.cashcashpinoy.com
Rebel Yell: We Got A Deal
Online Contact: support@cashcashpinoy.com

URL: http://www.dealdozen.com/
Rebel Yell: N/A
Online Contact: info@dealdozen.com

URL: http://www.cuponz.com
Rebel Yell: Group Buying Made Simpler
Online Contact: info@cuponz.com

URL: https://dealgrocer.com
Rebel Yell: Offering you a taste of the good life
Online Contact: team@dealgrocer.com

URL: http://www.discountpilipinas.com/
Rebel Yell: Gateway to amazing deals in your city
Online Contact: http://www.discountpilipinas.com/feedback/suggest.php

URL: http://www.ensogo.com.ph/manila/
Rebel Yell: Let's save together
Online Contact: support@ensogo.com.ph

URL: http://esarisari.com/
Rebel Yell: A Twist of DEALights
Online Contact: support@buyanihan.com

URL: http://www.beeconomic.com.ph/
Rebel Yell: Unbeatable Deals for Local Adventures!
Online Contact: support@groupon.ph

URL: http://www.highlife.ph/
Rebel Yell: Your passport to indulge
Contact Online: http://www.highlife.ph/about/contact.php

URL: http://www.halohalodeals.com/
Rebel Yell: Let's Buy and Save Together
Online Contact: http://www.halohalodeals.com/contacts/

URL: http://www.metrodeal.com/
Rebel Yell: Live Your City For Less
Online Contact: support@metrodeal.com

URL: http://www.nakamuraka.com/
Rebel Yell: We hunt for killer bargains
Online Contact: http://www.nakamuraka.com/contacts/

URL: http://pakyaw.com.ph/
Rebel Yell: It's a big deal
Online Contact: support@pakyaw.com.ph/

URL: http://plejee.com/
Rebel Yell: More Plejees More Discount
Online Contact: support@plejee.com.

URL: http://pilipinasbestbuys.com/
Rebel Yell: not good buys or goodbyes
Online Contact: inquiry@pilipinasbestbuys.com

URL: http://www.salamat.ph/
Rebel Yell: Free Daily Deals for Metro Manila
Online Contact: http://www.salamat.ph/base/contact

URL: http://www.tipidto.com/
Rebel Yell: Most Deals for Good Life
Online Contact: http://www.tipidto.com/contacts/

URL: http://www.wowdeals.ph/
Rebel Yell: Life's Happening Here
Online Contact: info@wowdeals.ph

URL: http://yugadeals.com/
Rebel Yell: Gadget deals and all things tech
Online Contact: support@yugadeals.zendesk.com

Did we miss anything? Let us know through the comments section.

Ten Tips to Save Money on Gas

2011-08-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

Do you still remember the time when fuel prices were at the P30+ level? Every other month, public transport drivers are on strike due to increase in gas prices. A lot of people in Metro Manila have opted to leave their cars behind and just brave the MRT and LRT to get to the office. With the political unrest happening in oil-rich countries, it is possible that price levels will not change anytime soon.

Remember that saving on gas is not only through finding the cheapest gas station (or not using your car at all) but by making your car more fuel-efficient and increasing the kilometer-per-liter (or miles-per-gallon if you are in English) ratio. We have listed ten tips to help you save on gas, cost-wise and usage-wise:

1. Remove unnecessary stuff from your trunk. Sure, these days, it has become an extension of your home - from books in school, running shoes for after-work jogging, gym clothes, etc., but putting more load into your trunk leads to more fuel used to boost the car.

2. Tune-up. Don't miss your periodic maintenance service. Make sure you change oil as scheduled and using the recommended oil by your advisor.

3. Organize carpools with friends, officemates, or classmates. Going to a trip out of town? Are you from the same office or school and just live in the same area? Go for carpools. Saves money, and saves the environment because there are lesser cars on the road.

4. Paying via credit card? Look for a credit card that offers rebates (cash back) for fuel purchases. A lot of the major banks in the Philippines have tie-ups with oil companies to give back as much as 5% of what you paid for gasoline.

5. Always check tire pressure. When a tire doesn't have enough air, it takes more gas to get the car rolling, especially here in Metro Manila where some roads (or stretches of it) are uneven and full of bumps and potholes. Go to the nearest gas station and have your tires checked. Consult your car manual to know what would be the best tire pressure (your friendly car forum would be a great resource, too).

6. Take a steady driving pace. Yes, we understand you're in Manila and it's all about survival. However, we'd rather that you save gas and medical bills than be the own king of the road. Sudden braking makes your car waste gas. Instant revving also uses a lot of fuel. Slow down when you're nearing the stop light or when an intersection requires you to stop. Don't own the road - remember Commonwealth and Macapagal Avenue have maximum speed limits of 60kph!

7. Avoid idling as much as possible. Unnecessary idling not only wastes fuel but also harms the environment. We know that most cities in Metro Manila would have no parking signs and the only way you can avoid getting a ticket is to leave your car on (yes, in case you don't know, a car is only considered parked if the engine is switched off); however, if you have the chance to turn off the engine, please do so.

8. Related to the tip above, start driving as soon as you switch on the engine. New cars do not need to be warmed up. It's a form of idling. It is suggested that you drive slowly (the car is already warming up at this time) and then gear up (not rev) when the cold temperature icon disappears from the dashboard.

9. Avoid topping off the gas tank. When filling up, stop upon hearing the nozzle click. The gas tank needs space for the gas to expand. The extra gas evaporates and contributes to air pollution.

10. Lastly, schedule all your activities on one day or in the same area. If you need to do some personal errands and/or gimmicks like grocery, salon, spa, bookstore, movies, etc., try as much as possible to do them on a Saturday or Sunday and in the same mall. That saves you time and makes you more efficient, than hopping from one place to another, thus paying for more gas and wait for it, parking fee!

We actually have some more tips like not using the aircon; however, we all know you'll probably get sick with that because of the pollution in Metro Manila. But if given the right environment, why not?

Do you have more gas saving tips? Share to us via the comments section.

How To Ride a Jeepney?

2011-06-11T18:09:00.000-07:00

Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJ) or jeepneys are the main mode of transportation in the Philippines. If you are a true blue traveler, you have for sure experienced riding a jeepney. If you are new in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila, you might want to try to ride one. We already have airconditioned jeepneys, as well as e-jeepneys if you are the picky type.

Check out this very informative video from Moymoy Palaboy on how to ride a jeepney. How do you ask how much the fare is? How do you pay while inside the jeepney? How do you ask the jeepney to stop? The "barya lang po sa umaga" (no huge bills in the morning) rule. How to tell your seatmate to sit straight? How to steal a nap? Enjoy.

Loyal jeepney commuters, do you agree with the video? Let us know through the comments.

Crossing the Streets of Metro Manila (Not a How-To)

2011-05-11T02:36:00.000-07:00

Metro Manila traffic is known to be one of the worst in the world. The whole experience is characterized by hour-long and bumper-to-bumper traffic jams, reckless driving, and maybe the most fascinating of all, the art of street-crossing.

They say "if you know how to drive in Manila, for sure you can drive anywhere." But one thing that people always forget is that we are taught on how to cross the street at a very young age ("look to the left then, look to the right") simply because the Filipino way of life is to cross the street - anywhere and wherever possible! Other countries value their pedestrians by creating strict driving guidelines such as stopping whenever someone is crossing the street, even if you are driving at breakneck speed. In our country, it's the other way around, pedestrians are supposed to stop whenever a car is passing by the street...

You can see below how a typical day would be on a Metro Manila road (the presence of the orange multicabs suggest this might be Gil Puyat). If you are a pedestrian, you'll find it normal to be a feet away from cars but from a bird's eye view perspective, you don't see how dangerous the whole crossing-the-street experience is. It's like an old-fashioned phone game, where one has to cross the street and make sure to get to the other side. Hit on click and see how it looks like from above.

Scary, isn't it? I wish we can do something about this. I don't think the pink billboard ("Walang Tawiran. Nakamamatay" or "No Crossing. Deadly") can do the trick. The irony is that a pedestrian lane can be found on that street but no one seemed to use it. Anyway, here's a funny take on highway crossing in Metro Manila, particularly Commonwealth Avenue, known as the Killer Highway, where MMDA recently imposed a 60kph max limit.

10 Places in Metro Manila For Christmas

2010-12-13T01:21:00.000-08:00

Wondering where to go for Christmas? Tight budget or grand reunion and celebration, Metro Manila has a lot of places to offer for the family. Therefore, Metro Manila Directions compiled the top 10 places to visit (or maybe, most visited) during the Christmas season. The first five places are the old-timers places - not technically for the old ones but basically, what most of us these days call, traditional places. The last five have just been built over the past decade but has already gained huge following and a lot of visitors during the Holidays.

The key is to tell you in short blurbs what these places can offer. So here we go:

1. Luneta/Rizal Park - All time favorite. You will never go wrong with Luneta. A lot of families flock this area during Christmas Eve and the Day itself to have picnics, get-togethers, or just simply picture-taking. Very cheap since the park is open to everyone. Read more about and get directions to Luneta

2. Divisoria. No need to explain why people from different parts of the country, okay - that's exaggerated, of Luzon, visit this shopping district of Manila every Christmas season. Quality but affordable gifts (it's the thought that counts), nice dresses, and healthy markets can be found in the streets of Divisoria. Read more about and get directions to Divisoria

3. Greenhills. If you are looking for the gifts to give your loved ones, why not start with Greenhills? Super crowded during the Holidays but one will not regret visiting this San Juan shopping center because this is where one can also watch the "Christmas on Display" (C.O.D.) - a musical show of lifesize Christmas figures.
Read more about and get directions to Greenhills

4. Cubao. The giant Christmas Tree of Araneta center. The Christmas lights along the streets of Cubao. Disney on Ice. Acrobats. Lots of shopping stores. Cubao Expo shops. Read more about and get directions to Cubao

5. Star City. Who hasn't been to Star City yet? Shame. On. You. Just kidding. But you have to experience visiting this theme park before you start having kids who you have to say 'yes' to when it's their turn to ask you to go with them to Star City.

6. Manila Ocean Park. If you have relatives visiting from the province, you should bring them to Manila Ocean Park. Large aquariums featuring rarely found sea creatures. The water and light show and the tempting Asian and seafood fusion restaurants. Read more about and get directions to Manila Ocean Park

7. SM Mall of Asia. The huge lighted globe. The fireworks via Manila Bay. San Miguel by the Bay. The huge shopping stores. SM Cinemas for MMFF. Read more about and get directions to SM Mall of Asia

8. Eastwood. Wanna be hip and trendy? Visit Eastwood. You will have City Walk 1 and 2. The central stage is where bazaars and mini-concerts can be found. Eastwood Mall is for the formal family dinners or old college friends' reunion. Read more about and get directions to Eastwood

9. Tiendesitas. Bargain. Food. Lots of bargain. Lots of food. Mini-concerts also and pampering services for your pets. Read more about and get directions to Tiendesitas

10. Bonifacio High Street and Serendra. There is nothing more fancy than to walk your dog on Christmas Eve. Just kidding. Bring your family out to a good dinner at Serendra. Or walk around High Street for some quiet time. Read more about and get directions to Bonifacio High Street and Serendra

Of course, don't forget to support the annual Metro Manila Film Festival!:)
*photo courtesy of Filipino Biz.ph (Philippine Tourism)

Metro Manila Directions

2010-11-20T15:57:00.000-08:00

Coming soon, ten places to go to for the holidays in Metro Manila!

Ten Tips #2: Traveling During Rainy Season

2010-10-17T02:53:00.000-07:00

PLEASE RETWEET, REPLURK, REBLOG, POST ON FACEBOOK, SHARE TO EVERYONE

Metro Manila is expecting heavy rainfall again - well, every year it does! And whether you like it or not, you still have to travel, ride public transport, or drive your favorite car. So, Metro Manila Directions came up with ten tips which can pretty much help you prepare for traveling during the rainy season.

1. The Golden Rule: Do not go out if there's really no reason to go out. Cancel or postpone your event for the day in case the weather is really bad. The phrase "rain check" was not invented for nothing.

2. Having a small umbrella inside your bag is better than having none. It does not matter if that is just the cheap 50-peso umbrella that you bought from the peddlers at the MRT station. Always have one in your bag.

3. Bring a plastic bag with you always. If it's really raining very hard, put your bag inside the plastic bag. This makes your bag or any belongings waterproof.

4. Avoid wading through floodwater. You can easily catch diseases just by dipping your feet on floodwater. We know for some it's a nice feeling but seriously, avoid floodwater.

5. Fully charge your cellphone before leaving the house. A single text to a loved one can save you, take away their worries, or both.

6. If you are driving, tune in to AM stations as they provide real-time updates on the weather, traffic situation in Metro Manila, flood levels, and roads to avoid. If you are in a bus, ask the driver or ticket inspector to turn on the radio.

7. Remember, the higher you are, the better. Try to stay inside your building or climb up the MRT station. It makes it easier for you to scout your surroundings and at the same time feel safe from the floodwaters and the peril of the streets.

8. If the flood level goes up and you are driving, locate the nearest elevated parking area. More often than not, the establishment owners would let you park for a flat rate as they understand the situation.

9. As much as possible, avoid walking through strong winds and do not stay in an open area. You'll never know if a flying roofsheet will land on you or a falling tree trunk might hit you.

10. If you braved the rains and got wet, make sure you change your clothes when you get home. Keeping wet clothes on with the cold weather will make you catch diseases.

Hope this helps! If you have any tips, let us know through the comments section below!

How To Get To Market! Market! ?

2010-10-17T00:38:00.000-07:00

Market! Market! is located at Bonifacio Global City. It is one of the earliest structures built in Fort Bonifacio and is adjacent to Serendra and Bonifacio Highstreet at The Fort. As a prime investment of Ayala for its tried and tested malls portfolio, Market! Market! attracts a lot of daily visitors for its Sunday market-themed retail stores and fruit and flora stalls. Concerts and mall tours are usually held in this family-friendly mall.

Directions on how to get to Market Market:

From the north:

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the jeepney terminal (under MRT station) and ride those that are bound for Market Market (this might be hard to spot these days, though).

Option 2. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the bus terminal of TheFort buses (at the gate of Forbes across Shell Station) bound for Fort Bonifacio. These are air-conditioned buses that go around Fort Bonifacio, ask to be dropped off Market Market.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Guadalupe. There are jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio Gate 3. You can ride either of the two, both of those routes pass by The Fort/Serendra. If your destination is by 3rd/5th Avenue, ride AFP Housing; if it's on the other side of the The Fort/Serendra (meaning along McKinley Parkway), ride Gate 3. In any case, both jeepney routes pass by Market Market.

Option 4. From the C5 area, ride an FX or jeepney going to Kalayaan Avenue and go down at the intersection of Kalayaan and C5. There are jeepneys bound for Market Market from that corner.

From the south:

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the jeepney terminal (under MRT station) and ride those with signboard McKinley-Fort-Bonifacio-Gate 2 that are bound for Market Market.

Option 2. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the bus terminal of TheFort buses (at the gate of Forbes across Shell Station) bound for Fort Bonifacio. These are air-conditioned buses that go around Fort Bonifacio.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Guadalupe. There are jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio. You can ride either of the two, both of those routes pass by The Fort/Serendra. If your destination is by 3rd/5th Avenue, ride AFP Housing; if it's on the other side of the The Fort/Serendra (meaning along McKinley Parkway), ride Gate 3. In any case, both jeepney routes pass by Market Market.

If you are commuting to The Fort from the Makati area:

Option 1. There are jeepneys in the Ayala terminal (under MRT station) that are bound for Market Market. There are also jeepneys plying the Ayala route going to Market Market.

Option 2. There are also jeepneys passing along Pasong Tamo/Mantrade/WalterMart (along Pasay Road) that are bound for FTI. Ride the one that goes to Gate 3. From Gate 3 or end of Pasong Tamo Extension, there are jeepneys bound for Guadalupe, passing by The Fort.

Option 3. There are also jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio. You can ride either of the two, both of those routes pass by The Fort/Serendra. If your destination is by 3rd/5th Avenue, ride AFP Housing; if it's on the other side of the The Fort/Serendra (meaning along McKinley Parkway), ride Gate 3. In any case, both jeepney routes pass by Market Market.

If you are coming from the Manila/Caloocan area or near the LRT stations, the best way is to take the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and go down at the EDSA-Taft Avenue station, use the footbridge that connects the LRT station to the MRT station and then ride an MRT going to Ayala and follow the directions stated above (for taking MRT).

If you are in the Taguig or Paranaque area, ride a jeepney going to Nichols in Taguig, ask to be dropped off the Gate 3 - where the jeepney terminal to The Fort is located. From Gate 3 , there are jeepneys bound for Guadalupe, passing by Market Market.

Going around the Fort Bonifacio area is now easy through the use of CityLink buses and the electric tricycles.

For private vehicles: Market Market is just along the southbound side of C5 between Kalayaan Avenue (in Makati) and the C5/Nichols Exit. The area can also be accessed through EDSA northbound using either a) KalayaanAvenue b) McKinley Road going to Forbes by the Ayala corner or c) C5 flyover coming from Buendia. Parking is available on most buildings in The Fort as well as paved open lot parking spaces.

The area is already traffic-heavy during rush hours on normal days (due to the volume of cars going to Makati and SLEX) and expect bumper-to-bumper heavy traffic during Christmas season on both sides.

Of course, you can ride a taxicab from any area around the metro and just mention "Market Market", "Fort Bonifacio", "Serendra", or "High Street" and the driver already knows where to go.

Here's a map around Market Market via Google Maps:

photo credit from http://www.paraisophilippines.com

How To Get To UP-Ayala Technohub?

2010-07-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

The UP-Ayala Land TechnoHub commercial complex, which focuses on information and technology businesses, is still part of the UP-Diliman Campus grounds (the 37.5-hectare North Science and Technology Park) though it's already across the "proper". It serves as the hub for huge companies like IBM, Manulife, HSBC, and other BPO centers.

The area was developed by Ayala, as suggested by its formal name, and true enough, you will really feel the signature Ayala atmosphere - some say this is a mini-Trinoma but it resembles more of a cousin of Serendra. Restaurants and coffeeshops are present and with the very relaxing open-space environment, one will say that he can stay here for a day!

Restaurants and establishments found here are: Yellow Cab, Old Spaghetti House, Flapjacks, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Razon's, Le Ching Tea House, Kanin Club, Gerry's Grill, Mister Kebab, Tokyo Tokyo, KFC, Reyes Barbecue, Seafood Island, Red Kimono, Ral's, Pizza Hut, Figaro, Starbucks, Mercury Drugstore, Timezone, Bench Fix, National Bookstore, Mini Stop, Switch Apple Store, BPI, China Bank, Globe Business Center. Business buildings are also located here like HSBC, Manulife, Ayala Foundation, Inc, IBM, Convergys, Pointwest. Business Centers such as TechPortal, Delta, and Alpha houses a lot of BPO companies.

If you're an old timer around the QC Circle - Commonwealth Area, you would remember that this is the same grassy space where the Paskong Pasiklab carnival and peryahan was usually situated.

Directions on how to travel/commute/get to UP-Ayala Land Technohub:
Remember that UP-Ayala Land Technohub is along Commonwealth Avenue. The nearest major landmark is Philcoa (a lot of jeepneys and buses passes through this area every day). Nearest MRT station is Quezon Avenue and North Avenue.

From Cities south of Quezon City:

Option 1. Ride an MRT bound for Quezon Avenue. From here, ride jeepneys bound for PhilCoa or Fairview. Ask the barker or the driver to drop you off Technohub. Be specific with the building as there are many overpass in the area (though they are near each other actually).

Option 2. Ride an MRT to North Avenue. Look for the the North Open parking where there are FX traversing the UP-Ayala Land FX route.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus that is bound for Fairview or Commonwealth. Asked to be dropped off Technohub.

From Manila/LRT Area:

Option 1. Ride an LRT1 (Yellow Line) bound for EDSA-Taft station and transfer to MRT . bound for Quezon Avenue. From here, ride jeepneys bound for PhilCoa or Fairview. Ask the barker or the driver to drop you off Technohub. Be specific with the building as there are many overpass in the area (though they are near each other actually).

Option 2. Ride an LRT1 (Yellow Line) bound for Doroteo Jose and transfer to Recto Station of LRT2 Purple Line and ride the LRT2 Purple Line until Cubao. Transfer to MRT bound for Quezon Avenue. From here, ride jeepneys bound for PhilCoa or Fairview. Ask the barker or the driver to drop you off Technohub. Be specific with the building as there are many overpass in the area (though they are near each other actually).

If you are coming from Espana or Quiapo, you can ride a jeepney bound for Quezon Avenue and transfer to jeepneys going to Commonwealth. There are also those bound for Commonwealth already so be on the lookout.

If you are coming from University of the Philippines (UP), you can ride any of the following jeepneys: UP-SM North, UP-Pantranco, or UP-Philcoa. This will bring you to Technohub.

For private vehicles, UP Ayala Land Technohub is along Commonwealth Avenue and very near the Philcoa area in QC Circle. From EDSA, you can go through East Avenue, Quezon Avenue, or North Avenue and take the Elliptical Road until you turn right to Commonwealth Avenue. You will need to take the U-Turn to go to the other side of Commonwealth (where Technohub is located). Be on the lookout for the signs on where you can take proper u-turn.

Of course, you can ride a taxicab from any area around the metro and just mention "UP Technohub" or "Commonwealth/Philcoa" and the driver already knows where to go.

Here's a map around UP-Ayala Land Technohub via Google Maps:

Landmarks around UP-Ayala Land Technohub are University of the Philippines, Department of Agrarian Reform, Jollibee, Citimall, PhilCoa, Quezon City Circle, Quezon Memorial Monument, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

*photo courtesy of Ayala Land website.

How To Get To Alphaland Southgate Mall?

2010-07-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

If you are a traveler frequently passing along EDSA, you might have already noticed that the eyesore and unfinished building beside the Magallanes MRT Station has transformed into a shiny and attention-grabbing infrastructure. Situated at the corner of Pasong Tamo and EDSA, just outside Dasmarinas Village, Alphaland Southgate Mall and Tower is the haven of commuters using the Magallanes MRT Station and those getting off provincial buses in Magallanes/Pasong Tamo. The building is redeveloped primarily for commercial lease space with the first five storeys alloted for a shopping mall, serving as the podium of the Tower. The Southgate Tower also offers The Tents Events Place, a 600-pax hall with an area of 650 sq.m. perfect for any occasion. There's also a supermarket (Super 8 Grocery) catering to residents living near the area.

This PEZA building also catches the attention of EDSA commuters and drivers with its huge LED billboard (touted as the biggest in the country) showcasing ads and helpful tips to motorists. The LED billboard is so bright that it illuminates most of EDSA and SLEX in the Magallanes area and serves as a trusted landmark for motorists (the billboard is even seen from as far as Ayala)!

Consumer and commuter establishment treats in Alphaland include Jollibee, Mang Inasal, Chowking, Goldilocks, Chef d'Angelo, Bean Hopper's Cafe, Sizzlin' Pepper Steak, Le Couer de France, Green Mango, Fruit Magic, Tapa King, Go Nuts Donuts, Reyes Barbecue, Deco's Lapaz Batchoy. Other stores such as Book Sale, D.I.Y., Daiso, CD-R King, Fuji Film store, and various cellphone stalls are also found here. Alphaland Southgate Mall has free wifi too!

Directions on how to commute/drive/travel to Alphaland Southgate Tower Mall:
Remember that the Southgate Mall is located at the intersection of EDSA and Pasong Tamo (Extension). Nearest MRT Station is, of course, the Magallanes MRT Station. It is also close to the EDSA-Magallanes PNR Station.

From the North (of Pasig River - Quezon City, CaMaNaVa Area):

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran/Alabang and get down at Magallanes. Cross EDSA via the MRT footbridge.

Option 2. From EDSA, ride the MRT bound for Taft and get down at Magallanes MRT Station.

From the South (of Makati - Pasay, Alabang Area):

Option 1. From Pasay/Baclaran EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Monumento/Fairview and get down at Magallanes. Alphaland Southgate Tower Mall is just a few steps away.

Option 2. From EDSA-Taft, ride the MRT bound for Magallanes MRT Station.

If you are commuting from around Makati, you can take the following jeepney routes "PRC Mantrade Kayamanan C" or "Waltermart-FTI".

If you are coming from Taguig or Pateros (C-5 Area):

Option 1. Take a jeepney going to Market! Market! and from there take a jeepney or bus bound for Ayala-EDSA, and then ride the MRT bound for Magallanes.

Option 2. From FTI, ride a jeepney bound for Waltermart. This jeepney passes by Pasong Tamo; ask the driver to drop you off Alphaland Southgate Mall.

If you are coming from Manila: ride the LRT bound for EDSA-Taft and transfer to the MRT station and ride the train going to Magallanes.

For private vehicles: Alphaland Southgate Mall is located at the corner of EDSA and Pasong Tamo. It is accessible via EDSA southbound (take note, there's another route if you are going northbound in EDSA, see below) and Pasong Tamo. Of course, take note of the MMDA Number Coding Scheme implemented in Makati.

If you are coming from EDSA southbound, you have to drive towards Pasong Tamo. This means not using both of the Magallanes flyovers (going to Alabang and Baclaran) and just staying at the right lane. You will be driving for a few meters and then will be forced to take a u-turn directly under the flyovers. Take that and it will bring you to the northbound side of EDSA where the mall is located.
If you are coming from EDSA northbound, NEVER take the flyover to cross SLEX and reach the other side of EDSA since that will make you miss Alphaland Southgate Mall. What you need to do is take the route that will bring you to SLEX Manila-bound. Take Don Bosco street - this is the first street crossing the PNR railways from Magallanes. Then turn right at Pasong Tamo and go straight, you'll see the mall in the horizon, just follow the flow of traffic until you reach it.
If you are coming from SLEX from the south, take the Don Bosco street - this is the first street crossing the PNR railways from Magallanes. Then turn right at Pasong Tamo and go straight, you'll see the mall in the horizon, just follow the flow of traffic until you reach it.

Of course, you can ride a taxicab from any area around the Metro and ask the driver to drop you off "Alphaland Southgate Mall" or "Magallanes MRT Station".

Here's a map around Alphaland Southgate Mall via Google Maps:

Landmarks around Alphaland Southgate Mall: San Lorenzo Place, Dasmarinas Village, Ecology Village, Pancake House Center, Lapanday Holdings Building, Glaxo Smith Kline, Van Heusen, Volvo, Federal Ceramics, Kodak Philippines, Mantrade, Coca Cola Makati Sales Office. Waltermart, Don Bosco Institute of Technology, Makati Cinema Square, and Little Tokyo is just a jeepney ride away (Pasong Tamo - Mantrade PRC).

*Alphaland Southgate Mall Tower photo from Alphaland website.

How To Get To Philsports Arena (formerly ULTRA)?

2010-06-22T01:20:00.000-07:00

Philsports Arena, or formerly known as ULTRA (short for University of Life Training and Recreation Arena), is an indoor sporting arena that is part of the premier national sports complex in the country called Philsports Complex. Philsports Arena has been the home of many basketball leagues from the time it was built in the 1980s. The PBA games was played here for seven years before it transferred to the Cuneta Astrodome. The Southeast Asian Games and other international and local games were also held here. Concerts and other social (religious, political, cultural) events are also being held here from time to time. UAAP and NCAA basketball games are currently being played in this arena.

The Philsports Complex, maintained by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), houses the offices of Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and other national sports associations. The Philsports Football and Athletic Stadium and Philsports Swimming Center are also within this compound.

The Arena was also used as an evacuation center during the Typhoon Ketsana (Ondoy) and Parma (Pepeng) onslaught in Metro Manila, particularly in Pasig City.

Directions on how to commute/drive/get to Philsports Arena (formerly ULTRA):
Remember that Philsports Arena or ULTRA is located along Meralco Avenue. The entrance to the arena itself is located along Capt. Henry Javier Street which is a few minutes walk from Meralco Avenue. Nearest MRT Stations are Ortigas and Shaw Boulevard.
Note that Mega Tent Events Venue is just beside the Philsports Complex so commuting/driving there would just be the same as below.
For those watching UAAP/NCAA games in Philsports Arena, scroll at the very bottom...

From Camanava:
Camanava stands for Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela

Option 1. From Monumento, you can ride a bus passing through EDSA going to going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 2. You can also take a bus up to North Avenue and then ride the MRT and get down at Ortigas Station and walk northbound. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 3. From Monumento, you can ride a bus passing through EDSA going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 4. You can also take a bus up to North Avenue and then ride the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

From Quezon City/Marikina:

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 2. Ride the MRT southbound and get down at Ortigas Station and walk northbound. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 3.From EDSA, ride a bus going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 4. Ride the MRT southbound and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 5. Depending on some certain key areas, there would be GT Express or FX cabs that will be bound for Megamall. For example, in Eastwood, there are FX/Vans that is of Eastwood-Megamall route. You can ride these PUVs and ask to be dropped off at ULTRA.

From Makati and Pasay:

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 2. Ride the MRT northbound and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 4. Ride the MRT northbound and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

From Manila (basically those who can access LRT 1 or 2):
via LRT 1:

Option 1. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 2. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). Transfer to the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 3. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 4. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). Transfer to the MRT and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

via LRT 2:

Option 1. Ride an LRT 2 bound for Araneta-Cubao and get down there. Transfer to the MRT and get down at Ortigas Station and walk northbound. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

Option 2. Ride an LRT 2 bound for Araneta-Cubao and get down there. Transfer to the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

via G-Liner from Quiapo, passing through Araneta Avenue, Ortigas (Greenhills, Robinson's, etc). You can ride this and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue and Ortigas Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

From more southern areas (South of Makati like Paranaque, etc):

Option 1. Ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Magallanes MRT Station. Ride the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at ULTRA/Philsports Arena at the corner of Capt. Javier Street.

Option 2. Ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

From Ortigas, from the corner of Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA) or Robinson's Galleria, there are jeepneys bound for Rosario or G-Line buses bound for Cainta, ride those jeepneys or buses and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue and Ortigas Avenue. Then, ride a jeepney bound for Crossing/Shaw Blvd and ask the driver to drop you off Philsports Arena/ULTRA (Meralco cor. Capt Javier Street).

For private vehicles: Philsports Arena is along Meralco Avenue. From EDSA, this is accessible via (1) Ortigas Avenue, taking a right turn at Meralco Avenue and continue until you reach Capt. Henry Street (landmark is Department of Education building to your left side) or (2) Shaw Boulevard, taking a left turn at Meralco Avenue and continue until you reach Capt. Henry Street (landmark is Department of Education building to your right side). From C-5 southbound, this is accessible via Lanuza Avenue, then turn left at St. Martin Street then turn right at Capt. Henry Javier Street.

If you are watching a UAAP or NCAA game and bringing a car, there might be limited parking space around the area. What you can do is park your car at EDSA Shangri-La Plaza and ride a jeepney to Philsports Arena/ULTRA or park at Metrowalk (it's FREE) and then ride a jeepney to Philsports Arena/ULTRA.

Of course, you can ride a taxicab from any area around the metro and just mention "ULTRA" or "Philsports Arena" and the driver already knows where to go.

Here's a map around Philsports Arena (formerly ULTRA) via Google Maps:

Landmarks around Philsports Arena (ULTRA) are the following: St. Paul College of Pasig, Department of Education Central Office, The Alexandra, Philsports Complex, Rizal Provincial Jail, Renaissance 1000, Renaissance 2000, Renaissance 3000, Mega Tent Events Venue, Valle Verde Country Club, Valle Verde Mansions.

How To Get To Metrowalk?

2010-06-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

Metrowalk is a mid-size commercial area in Pasig City, situated at the corner of Meralco Avenue and Ortigas Avenue. The area is known to be the entertainment, dining, and shopping hub primarily catering to he call center and business people in Ortigas. Metrowalk serves as an alternative and a resting haven for tired shoppers from nearby big shopping centers like Megamall, EDSA Shangri-La Plaza, St. Francis Square, and Podium. Added to this, a lot of big events also happen in Metrowalk, like Red Horse Muziklaban and occasional local and international poker tournaments. If the gang is up for an all-night drinking gig or just pure clean fun, Metrowalk is the place to be.

Aside from entertainment, Metrowalk is also a shopping venue. It boasts of retail shops and bazaars selling RTWs, accessories, and jewelry. There are also stalls selling cheap DVDs of foreign movies, TV Series, and concerts (*Note: MMD does not promote piracy). Pet shops and specialty stores can be found here as well. Near the parking lot, native delicacies and fresh fruits and vegetables are also being sold.

Some of the restaurants found in Metrowalk serve international cuisines while the rest offer truly local and awesomely entertaining services. They are the following: Capisce, Misato, Oyster Boy, Dencio's, Brazil Brazil, Behrouz Persian Cuisine, Aruba Bar, Decades, Sanctuario, Bacolod Chicken Inasal, Club Phi Restobar, El Botin, Elbow Room, Ice Monster, Icebergs, Menu, Mugen Bar, Music Platinum Family KTV, Music Venue, Opus Restobar, Pancake House, R&B Metrowalk, Snowcraze, Teazann Restaurant, Yoohoo Bar-b-que, Good Earth, Love 2 Laugh, Starbucks, Bun on the Run, Carlo's Pizza, Sweet Treats, Steak Plus, Arellano's Wine Depot, Bagnet Restaurant, Cravings Restaurant, El Pescador, Ice Monster, Jay-J's Inasal, Lugawan Republic, Marikit-Na Hapag Kainan, Panciteria China, Pho Hoa, Tao Bar, Woodfire Grill Republic.

Directions on how to commute/drive/get to Metrowalk:
Remember that Metrowalk is at the corner of Meralco Ave. and Ortigas Ave and a walking distance from Julia Vargas Avenue. The nearest MRT stations are Ortigas and Shaw. From Ortigas MRT Station, it might take around 25 minutes walking to Metrowalk while from Shaw Blvd, jeepneys with route Crossing-Antipolo/Binangonan/Rosario easily pass by Metrowalk.

From Camanava:
Camanava stands for Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela

Option 1. From Monumento, you can ride a bus passing through EDSA going to going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 2. You can also take a bus up to North Avenue and then ride the MRT and get down at Ortigas Station and walk northbound. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 3. From Monumento, you can ride a bus passing through EDSA going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 4. You can also take a bus up to North Avenue and then ride the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

From Quezon City/Marikina:

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 2. Ride the MRT southbound and get down at Ortigas Station and walk northbound. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 3.From EDSA, ride a bus going to Ayala, MIA, SM Mall of Asia or Baclaran get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 4. Ride the MRT southbound and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 5. Depending on some certain key areas, there would be GT Express or FX cabs that will be bound for Megamall. For example, in Eastwood, there are FX/Vans that is of Eastwood-Megamall route. You can ride these PUVs and ask to be dropped off at Metrowalk.

From Makati and Pasay:

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 2. Ride the MRT northbound and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 4. Ride the MRT northbound and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

From Manila (basically those who can access LRT 1 or 2):
via LRT 1:

Option 1. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 2. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). Transfer to the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 3. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). From EDSA, ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 4. Ride an LRT 1 bound for EDSA-Taft Avenue or jeepney bound for Baclaran (get down at EDSA). Transfer to the MRT and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

via LRT 2:

Option 1. Ride an LRT 2 bound for Araneta-Cubao and get down there. Transfer to the MRT and get down at Ortigas Station and walk northbound. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Option 2. Ride an LRT 2 bound for Araneta-Cubao and get down there. Transfer to the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

via G-Liner from Quiapo, passing through Araneta Avenue, Ortigas (Greenhills, Robinson's, etc). You can ride this and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue and Ortigas Avenue where Metrowalk is located.

From more southern areas (South of Makati like Paranaque, etc):

Option 1. Ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Magallanes MRT Station. Ride the MRT and get down at Shaw Boulevard. From the side of EDSA Central, there are jeepneys bound for Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, or Rosario. These jeepneys will pass by Meralco Avenue and you can get down at Metrowalk after the Julia Vargas flyover.

Option 2. Ride a bus going to going to Monumento or Fairview and get down in Ortigas. From the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, ride a jeepney or bus (G-Liner or RCGC) bound for Rosario or Cainta and get down at the corner of Meralco Avenue. Metrowalk is already walkable from this corner.

Landmarks around Metrowalk are the following: Ortigas Home Depot, MC Home Depot, Union Bank Plaza, Jollibee Plaza.

How To Get To Burgos Circle?

2010-06-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

If South Makati has Paseo de Magallanes for international cuisine restaurants, Fort Bonifacio has Burgos Circle. Surrounded by residential condominiums in Forbes Town Center, this hip dining complex offers an alternative to the dining experience in Serendra and Bonifacio High Street. More bars and restaurants are expected to spring up in this still-to-be-discovered-by-many location so hurry now and visit Burgos Circle.

Restaurants found in Burgos Circle are: Jozu Kin (Japanese), Mile Hi Diner (American), Rastro (Spanish-Mediterranean), Cafe Juanita (Filipino), Sugarhouse, Cantinetta (Italian), The Good Earth - now known as Henry's Place (Chinese), Just Thai (of course, Thai), Kebab Factory (Indian), Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, UCC, Distillery. (Let us know if there are other restaurants in the area that Metro Manila Directions missed to include)

Directions on how to commute/travel to Burgos Circle:

Remember that Burgos Circle is along 2nd Avenue in Fort Bonifacio. Nearest MRT Station is Ayala.

If you are from the north of Makati (Quezon City, Pasig, CaMaNaVa, Mandaluyong):

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the bus terminal of TheFort buses - West Route (at the gate of Forbes across Shell Station) bound for Fort Bonifacio. These are air-conditioned buses that go around Fort Bonifacio. Ask to be dropped off near Burgos Circle.

Option 2. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Guadalupe. Ride a Guadalupe-AFP Housing or Guadalupe-Gate 3 jeepney. This will not pass by Burgos Circle but can bring you to walkable distance - ask the driver to drop you off near Burgos Circle.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the jeepney terminal (in Forbes Gate 2, a few steps from the MRT Station and ride those that are bound for Market Market. You are already in a walkable distance from Burgos Circle but we advise that you ride an electric tricycle (see photo below).

Option 4. From the C5 area, ride an FX or jeepney going to Kalayaan Avenue and go down at the intersection of Kalayaan and C5 (called "Buting"). There are jeepneys bound for Market Market from that corner. Look for the E3 terminal that can bring you to Burgos Circle. The E3s are the colorful tricycle-like vehicles going around Fort Bonifacio (see photo below)

If you are commuting to The Fort from the Makati area:

Option 1. On the intersection of Ayala and EDSA northbound side, across the Shell Station, there are jeepneys and Fort Buses - West Route bound for Market Market. Ask to be dropped off Burgos Circle.

Option 2. There are also jeepneys passing along Pasong Tamo/Mantrade/WalterMart (along Pasay Road) that are bound for FTI. Ride the one that goes to Gate 3. From Gate 3 or end of Pasong Tamo Extension, there are jeepneys bound for Guadalupe. Ride a Guadalupe-AFP Housing jeepney. This will not pass by Burgos Circle but can bring you to walkable distance - ask the driver to drop you off near Burgos Circle.

Option 3. There are also jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio. Ride a Guadalupe-AFP Housing jeepney. This will not pass by Burgos Circle but can bring you to walkable distance - ask the driver to drop you off near Burgos Circle.

If you are coming from the Manila, Pasay, and Caloocan area or near the LRT stations, the best way is to take the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and go down at the EDSA-Taft Avenue station, use the footbridge that connects the LRT station to the MRT station and then ride an MRT going to Ayala and follow the directions stated above (for taking MRT).

If you are from the south (Pasay, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Las Pinas):

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the bus terminal of TheFort buses - West Route (at the gate of Forbes across Shell Station) bound for Fort Bonifacio. These are air-conditioned buses that go around Fort Bonifacio. Ask to be dropped off near Burgos Circle.

Option 2. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Guadalupe. Ride a Guadalupe-AFP Housing jeepney. This will not pass by Burgos Circle but can bring you to walkable distance - ask the driver to drop you off near Burgos Circle.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the jeepney terminal (in Forbes Gate 2, a few steps from the MRT Station and ride those that are bound for Market Market. Get down at 5th Avenue and ride jeep with route Guadalupe-AFP Housing that is bound for Guadalupe. This will not pass by Burgos Circle but can bring you to walkable distance - ask the driver to drop you off near Burgos Circle.

Option 4. If you are from Taguig or Paranaque, see the options below.

If you are in the Taguig or Paranaque area, see below:

Option 1. Ride a jeepney going to Nichols in Taguig and asked to be dropped off the Gate 3, where the jeepney terminal to The Fort and Market Market! is located. From Gate 3, there are jeepneys bound for Guadalupe. Ride a Guadalupe-AFP Housing jeepney. This will not pass by Burgos Circle but can bring you to walkable distance - ask the driver to drop you off near Burgos Circle.

Option 2. Ride a Guadalupe-FTI jeepney from FTI and get down at the northbound side of C5 across Market Market! You can already cross C5 via the bridge. Look for the E3 terminal that can bring you to Burgos Circle. The E3s are the colorful tricycle-like vehicles going around Fort Bonifacio.

Going around Fort Bonifacio Global City is now easy through the use of CityLink buses and the electric tricycles. Just look for the loading/unloading stations and you can get to your destinations!

For those driving private vehicles: Burgos Circle is inside Fort Bonifacio and bounded by 32nd St and 5th Avenue. From 32nd Avenue, enter via 2nd Avenue (street before Shell Station) and go forward until you reach Burgos Circle. From 5th Avenue, make a turn to 26th St (corner is Hyundai/Mini Showroom opposite of Encore) and go straight until the end of 26th and then turn to Forbestown Road and then go straight until you reach Burgos Circle. Parking is available around the Circle or basement of Forbes Town Center.

Fort Bonifacio is just along the southbound side of C5 between Kalayaan Avenue (in Makati) and the C5/Nichols Exit. The area can also be accessed through EDSA northbound using either a) KalayaanAvenue b) McKinley Road going to Forbes by the Ayala corner or c) C5 flyover coming from Buendia. The C5 area is already traffic-heavy during rush hours on normal days (due to the volume of cars going to Makati and SLEX) and expect bumper-to-bumper heavy traffic during Christmas season on both sides. But within Fort Bonifacio, there aren't any traffic jams at all.

Of course, you can ride a taxicab from any area around the metro and just mention "Burgos Circle" or "Fort Bonifacio" and the driver already knows where to go.

Here's a map around Burgos Circle via Google Maps:

*photo credits go to philippineboards.com and manilagateway.com

How To Get To Bonifacio High Street and Serendra?

2010-06-19T23:06:00.000-07:00

Bonifacio High Street is a hip commercial and business complex in Fort Bonifacio. A kilometer stretch of shopping and office blocks, this complex with low-rise buildings houses premier restaurants and also serves as a very pleasant park for families, lovers, friends, and even dog lovers. Business offices are located at the second floor of these buildings. Many years ago, the area started as a very upscale location but as years passed, it has become more accessible that people from all walks of life visit the place.

Serendra, or Serendra Piazza, is also an upscale dining and shopping complex in Fort Bonifacio. The Piazza is located on the first two floors of Serendra Condominium and serves as a "bridge" between Market! Market! and Bonifacio High Street.

A lot of foreigners visit this attractive spot in Fort Bonifacio because of the international shopping and al fresco ambiance that these two areas provide. First-time visitors would be amazed at the installation art and elegant sculptures and fountains found in the area. What more can you expect from Ayala Land?

Restaurants and retail shops found in Bonifacio High Street are the following: Club Ascend, Bo's, Coffee, Club, Brother's Burger, Cav Wine, Clawdaddy Crab House and American Grill, Figaro Coffee, Italianni's Restaurant, Kabisera, Kirin Chinese Dining, Krispy Kreme, Magnet Cafe, Agave, Murray's New Orleans Bourbon Street Steaks and Oysters, Pancake House, Seattle's Best Coffee, Starbucks (there's a standalone and another inside Fully Booked), T.G.I. Friday's, Texas Roadhouse Grill, The Coffee Ben & Tea Leaf, The Stock Market, Zing! Juice. Fully Booked, R.O.X., The Spa, Crocs, FlipFlops, Timezone, Honda Service Station and Showroom is also behind the stores, Mizuno, Hobbes and Landes (where Yoh-Gurt is), Nike, Runnr's, Calvin Klein, Charles & Keith, G Force Oakley, Kenneth Cole, Nine West, Philosophy, Rudy Project, and Von Dutch outlets. The Nuffnang office can also be found here.

Restaurants and retail shops found in Serendra: Cupcakes by Sonja's, Miss Desserts, Xocolat, A Different Bookstore, Chelsea, Abe, Duo Steakhouse and Wine Bar, Thai at Silk, Conti's, Murray and D'Vine, Fez, Larry's, Tatami Japanese Restaurant, Zao Bistro, Mamou, Gaudi, Fu, Guava, Hossein's Persian Kebab, Balducci, Brazil Brazil, Cafe Mary Grace, Polu Kai Grill, Mogu, Sentro 1771, Healthy Kitchen, Cacao, ArAma, Culliere, Froyo's, Kape Isla, Mini Shabu-Shabu, Sunrise Buckets, Tea and Therapy, Lulu Belle, Blow Up Babies, Gymboree.

Additions: Mercato Centrale, a weekend haven for food enthusiasts can also be found around the area.

Directions on how to commute/travel to Bonifacio High Street and Serendra:

Remember that Bonifacio High Street and Serendra are just in front of Market Market. So, it's also practical to base your commute to Market Market because it has a jeepney/bus terminal where all public transport vehicles converge.

If you are from the north of Makati (Quezon City, Pasig, CaMaNaVa, Mandaluyong):

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the jeepney terminal (in Forbes Gate 2, a few steps from the MRT Station and ride those that are bound for Market Market. These jeepneys will pass by Bonifacio High Street and Serendra.

Option 2. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the bus terminal of TheFort buses - East Route (at the gate of Forbes across Shell Station) bound for Fort Bonifacio. These are air-conditioned buses that go around Fort Bonifacio. Ask to be dropped off Bonifacio High Street or Serendra.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus southbound to Baclaran or Ayala or take an MRT and go down at Guadalupe. There are jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio Gate 3. You can ride either of the two, both of those routes pass by The Fort/Serendra. If your destination is by 3rd/5th Avenue, ride AFP Housing; if it's on the other side of the Bonifacio High Street/Serendra (meaning along McKinley Parkway), ride Gate 3. In any case, The Fort is a small area and you can just go to buildings by walking.

Option 4. From the C5 area, ride an FX or jeepney going to Kalayaan Avenue and go down at the intersection of Kalayaan and C5 (called "Buting"). There are jeepneys bound for Market Market from that corner. Market Market! is just in front of Bonifacio and High Street.

If you are from the south (Pasay, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Las Pinas):

Option 1. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the jeepney terminal (under MRT station) and ride those with signboard McKinley-Fort-Bonifacio-Gate 2 that are bound for Market Market.

Option 2. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Ayala and look for the bus terminal of TheFort buses-East Route (at the gate of Forbes across Shell Station) bound for Fort Bonifacio. These are air-conditioned buses that go around Fort Bonifacio.

Option 3. From EDSA, ride a bus northbound to Fairview or Monumento or take an MRT and go down at Guadalupe. There are jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio. You can ride either of the two, both of those routes pass by The Fort/Serendra. If your destination is by 3rd/5th Avenue, ride AFP Housing; if it's on the other side of the The Fort/Serendra (meaning along McKinley Parkway), ride Gate 3. In any case, The Fort is a small area and you can just go to buildings by walking.

Option 4. If you are from Taguig or Paranaque, see the options below.

If you are commuting to The Fort from the Makati area:

Option 1. On the intersection of Ayala and EDSA northbound side, across the Shell Station, there are jeepneys and Fort buses (East Route) bound for Market Market. Ask to be dropped off Bonifacio High Street.

Option 2. There are also jeepneys passing along Pasong Tamo/Mantrade/WalterMart (along Pasay Road) that are bound for FTI. Ride the one that goes to Gate 3. From Gate 3 or end of Pasong Tamo Extension, there are jeepneys bound for Guadalupe, passing by Bonifacio High Street and Serendra.

Option 3. There are also jeepneys in Guadalupe that are bound for AFP Housing and Fort Bonifacio. You can ride either of the two, both of those routes pass by The Fort/Serendra. If your destination is by 3rd/5th Avenue, ride AFP Housing; if it's on the other side of the The Fort/Serendra (meaning along McKinley Parkway), ride Gate 3. In any case, The Fort is a small area and you can just go to buildings by walking.

If you are in the Taguig or Paranaque area, see below:

Option 1. Ride a jeepney going to Nichols in Taguig and asked to be dropped off the Gate 3, where the jeepney terminal to The Fort and Market Market! is located. From Gate 3, there are jeepneys bound for Guadalupe, passing by Bonifacio High Street and Serendra.

Option 2. Ride a Guadalupe-FTI jeepney from FTI and get down at the northbound side of C5 across Market Market! You can already cross C5 via the bridge.

For those driving private vehicles: Bonifacio High Street and Serendra are within Fort Bonifacio, surrounded by 11th Ave, 7th Ave, 32nd St, and 26th St. Fort Bonifacio is just along the southbound side of C5 between Kalayaan Avenue (in Makati) and the C5/Nichols Exit.
The area can also be accessed through EDSA northbound using either a) KalayaanAvenue b) McKinley Road going to Forbes by the Ayala corner or c) C5 flyover coming from Buendia. Parking is available on paved open lot parking spaces around Bonifacio High Street and basement of Serendra.

The C5 area is already traffic-heavy during rush hours on normal days (due to the volume of cars going to Makati and SLEX) and expect bumper-to-bumper heavy traffic during Christmas season on both sides. But within Fort Bonifacio, there aren't any traffic jams at all.

Of course, you can ride a taxicab from any area around the metro and just mention "Market Market", "Fort Bonifacio", "Serendra", or "Bonifacio High Street" and the driver already knows where to go.

Here's a map around Bonifacio High Street and Serendra via Google Maps:

*photos from AyalaLand website.