Tips

The city of Makati in the Philippines is one of the 17 cities that make up Manila, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. Makati is the financial centre of the Philippines and the home to luxury shops, malls and some of the finest restaurants, bars and nightclubs in the country.

Geography

Philippines, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient Seas’ is an archipelago that lies off the south-eastern coast of Asia mainland, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Celebes Sea, and the South China Sea. Rich in natural resources, world-famous beaches and tropical rainforests, it consists of 7,107 islands, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world. The islands are grouped into 3 parts: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Time Zone

Makati is eight hours ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Climate

Makati is in the tropics and temperatures range between 20 to 38 °C (68 to 100 °F). Makati also has a high level of humidity, with a relatively long rainy season between May and December

Culture

The name Makati emerged via the Tagalog word kati, which stands for tide, referring to the tide of the Pasig River located to the North of Makati. The population of Makati is 510,383 and is the ninth largest municipality in Manila. Its population is nearly 200 times larger now than it was in the early 1900s.

Language

Filipino and English are the official languages of the Philippines.

Currency

The official currency of the Philippines is the Peso (PHP).

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are widely accepted in the Philippines. Hotels, retailers, restaurants, travel agents and even taxi companies readily accept international credit cards. Automated Teller Machines providing cash in local currency are widely available throughout Manila.

Religion

The Roman Catholic religion is the predominant religion in the Philippines.

Car Hire and Limousine Transfers

The hotel’s Concierge Desk may assist you with your transportation requirements, limousine transfers or car hire. A valid international driving license is required for any car rental in Manila.

Public Transport

Taxis are in abundance in Makati and are usually the preferred method of transport for our guests. Jeepneys - a cross between a Jeep and a Jitney - are popular with the locals. There are two train systems - the Light Rail Transit system and the Manila Metro Rail Transit system.

Health

A hotel doctor and nurse are on call 24 hours. Should you have any health issues or concerns please contact our Front Desk and they will help you. We have a doctor that we can call upon and there are numerous medical centers and hospitals within reach of the hotel.

Hospitals and Pharmacy

Nearby hospitals include the Makati Medical Centre and the St. Lukes Medical Centre, Global City. Alternatively, the Mercury Drugstore, Greenbelt is available for any pharmacy related requirements.

Electricity

220 volts, standard two-point flat pin plugs are suitable.

Taxes and Fees

12 percent VAT, 0.6 percent city tax and 10 percent service charge.

For more information and enquiries please contact us at:
Tel: +632 555 9777
Email: concierge.makati@raffles.com