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Visitors heading to Salcedo Village for the Weekend Shared Street pilot initiative this August will have several convenient parking options nearby.



Organizers Ayala Land, Inc. and the Makati Central Estate Association Inc. (MACEA) have identified multiple designated parking areas to accommodate motorists while select streets linking Ayala Triangle Gardens to Jaime Velasquez Park are transformed into pedestrian-friendly zones.


The initiative runs across all weekends in August (August 1–2, 8–9, 15–16, 22–23, and 29–30), operating from 12:01 AM on Saturday through 11:00 PM on Sunday.




Available Parking Locations

To help plan your visit, here are the official designated parking sites in and around Salcedo Village, as shown on the official map:


Open Parking Lots (Blue Icons)


 * Laneway Lot – Located near Lakandula, Gallardo, and Bautista Streets.

 * Tordesillas Open Parking – Located along Tordesillas Street near Sanchez Street.

 * Leviste Open Parking – Situated near Jaime Velasquez Park, along Leviste Street and Toledo Street.

 * Valero Open Parking – Positioned near Soliman Street and Valero Access Road 1.

 * Insular Open Parking – Located along V.A. Rufino Street near Sedeno Street.

 * Paseo Center – Situated along Sedeño Street near Paseo de Roxas.


Multi-Level Parking Building (Pink Icon)


* Valero Carpark – Located along Valero Street, near Sedeño and Villar Streets.





Tips for Visitors


 * Plan Ahead: Because select roads connecting Ayala Triangle to Jaime Velasquez Park will be dedicated to pedestrian use, expect minor rerouting along neighboring streets.

 * Check Operating Hours: Parking spaces cater to weekend visitors throughout the duration of the pilot run, starting early Saturday morning until late Sunday evening.

 * Walkable Access: All designated parking lots place visitors within short walking distance of both Jaime Velasquez Park and the Ayala Triangle Gardens area.



Where to Park in Ayala Makati for Weekend Shared Street


Here's a detailed commuting guide for Araneta City Bus Port.



Where is Araneta City Bus Port?

The Araneta City Bus Port, located on the ground floor of Manhattan Heights along General Romulo Avenue, serves as a vital transportation hub in the heart of Cubao, Quezon City.


Whether you're traveling from Manila, Pasay, Fairview, Bulacan, Ortigas, Makati, Marikina, Katipunan, Taguig, Paranaque, or Muntinlupa, here's a detailed guide on how to reach the Araneta City Bus Port via different modes of transportation:

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From Manila or Pasay

If you're coming from Manila or Pasay, you can take various modes of transportation to reach the Araneta City Bus Port. One option is to ride the LRT or MRT until the Araneta City Cubao station. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to Manhattan Heights, where the bus port is located.


From Fairview or Bulacan

Travelers coming from Fairview or Bulacan can take buses bound for Cubao along EDSA. Once you arrive at Cubao, you can easily walk to Manhattan Heights from the terminal. Alternatively, you can take public transportation options such as jeepneys or FX rides to Cubao and then proceed to the bus port on foot.



From Ortigas or Makati

For those originating from Ortigas or Makati, buses along EDSA bound for Cubao are readily available. Alight at Farmers Market and take a short walk to Manhattan Heights, where the bus port is situated. The proximity of the terminal to major thoroughfares makes it easily accessible for commuters.


From Marikina or Katipunan

Travelers from Marikina or Katipunan can opt to take jeepneys or FX rides to Cubao. Alight at P. Tuazon Boulevard or Aurora Boulevard, and from there, it's a brief stroll to reach the Araneta City Bus Port. The accessibility of the bus port from key drop-off points ensures a convenient travel experience for commuters.


From Taguig, Paranaque, or Muntinlupa

Passengers originating from Taguig, Paranaque, or Muntinlupa can take buses or other forms of public transportation to Cubao. Once at Cubao, you can easily navigate your way to Manhattan Heights, where the bus port is located. Whether you're traveling from nearby areas or distant locations, the Araneta City Bus Port offers a central and accessible transportation hub for travelers heading to various destinations.



Additional Transport Options Near Araneta City Bus Port

In addition to the Araneta City Bus Port, passengers can access various other transport terminals and services within walking distance, providing additional convenience and connectivity for travelers. Here are some nearby transport options:


Traditional Jeepneys

Traditional jeepneys operate from the Araneta City Jeepney Terminal, located further north along General Romulo Avenue. These jeepneys serve routes to destinations such as Calumpang, Camp Crame, Lagro, and Project 4, as well as locations outside Metro Manila including Angono, Antipolo, Cainta, Silangan (San Mateo), and Taytay.

Some jeepneys also operate along Aurora Blvd below the LRT 2-Gateway Mall Station Concourse, serving areas like Divisoria, Sta. Mesa, Remedios in Manila, Parang, SSS Village in Marikina, and Cogeo and Padilla in Antipolo.


Modernized Jeepneys

Modernized jeepneys operate from the old Araneta City Bus Terminal at Times Square Avenue. These jeepneys serve routes to Fairview, Novaliches, Eastwood City, Roces Avenue in Quezon City, Rosario and Sta. Lucia in Pasig City, Parang, SSS Village in Marikina, Muzon in San Jose Del Monte, San Rafael in Montalban, and Deparo in Caloocan.


Metro Manila Minimum Fare

Here's the fare increase table starting October 8, 2023, for various modes of transportation:

TransportNew Min FareAfter 4kmAfter 5km
Traditional Jeep₱13₱1.80
Modern Jeep₱15₱2.20
Ordinary City Bus₱15₱2.25
Ordinary Provincial Bus₱15₱1.90
Aircon City Bus₱15₱2.64
Aircon Provincial Bus (Deluxe)₱15₱2.10


UV Express Vehicles

UV Express vehicles within Farmers Plaza, including those within General Roxas Avenue Terminal and Central Avenue Terminal, provide transportation to selected areas in Quezon City (Novaliches), Northern Caloocan (Deparo), Bulacan (Malolos), Laguna (San Pedro, Balibago, Santa Rosa), and the province of Rizal (Rodriguez, Cogeo/Padilla, Antipolo).


Main Avenue Bus Stop

Getting from the EDSA Carousel Main Avenue Bus Stop to the Araneta Bus Port inside Araneta City, Cubao is a short trip. Walk via P. Tuazon & Gen. Romulo Ave. Estimated Time: 10–12 minutes.


Buses under Route Number 3

Buses under route number 3 travel from Antipolo to Quiapo via LRT 2-Gateway Mall Station Concourse, providing additional transportation options for commuters.


Railway Stations

Nearby railway stations include the MRT Line 3 (Araneta Center–Cubao station) and the LRT Line 2 (Araneta Center–Cubao station), offering convenient access to commuters traveling within Metro Manila and beyond.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

Getting to the Araneta City Bus Port is convenient and straightforward, thanks to its strategic location and accessibility via different modes of transportation. Plan your route in advance and enjoy a seamless travel experience at the Araneta City Bus Port.




IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

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WHERE TO STAY IN QUEZON CITY:
Quezon City Hotels & Resorts | Quezon City Transient for rent

How to get to Araneta City Bus Port


Commuting from Makati to Southern Luzon just got a lot easier. If you are heading out to the beaches of Nasugbu or looking to catch the cool breeze in Tagaytay, a new bus route operating out of One Ayala has you covered.



Managed by ACB Transport and AAB Liner, this route bridges the gap between the central business district and key destinations in Cavite and Batangas.


Route Overview & Major Stops

The bus originates at the One Ayala transport hub and passes through major commercial developments before heading further south.


Key Transit Points


Origin: One Ayala by Ayala Malls

Midpoints: Ayala Malls Manila Bay and Evo City

Final Destinations: Nasugbu, Batangas / Tagaytay Mendez



Designated Bus Stops

If you are looking to drop off along the way, the buses make regular stops at these strategic Cavite locations:

  • Kawit
  • Lancaster
  • General Trias
  • Tanza
  • Amadeo


Bus Schedule

Whether you are a daily commuter heading home for the weekend or a tourist planning a weekend getaway, keep these trip schedules in mind:

Weekdays (Monday to Friday)

  • First trip: 6AM
  • Last trip: 8PM

Holidays/Weekends (Saturday and Sunday)

  • First trip: 5AM
  • Last trip: 9PM





Commuter Tip

Weekend and holiday schedules feature earlier opening hours and extended evening trips to accommodate leisure travelers heading down to Tagaytay and Batangas. It's always best to arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time to secure your seat.



You Can Now Ride This Bus From One Ayala to Tagaytay and Nasugbu, Batangas


Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, is a sensory delight of incredible food, historical charm, and bustling commerce. However, for those driving in, it is notoriously challenging to navigate. Finding a secure and reliable parking spot is often the most stressful part of the journey.

To ensure your visit is focused on your food trip or business rather than finding a spot for your car, here is your essential guide to parking in Binondo.



Top Recommended Parking Facilities

For peace of mind and the safety of your vehicle, stick to designated parking buildings and malls.

Lucky Chinatown Mall

1. Lucky Chinatown Mall

This is widely considered the most convenient and secure option for visitors.

Why choose it: It offers a multi-level indoor parking facility, which keeps your car protected from the elements.

Pro Tip: If you are planning a weekend trip or visiting during peak lunch hours, aim to arrive as soon as the mall opens. By mid-day, the parking levels (especially the higher ones) can fill up, and the exit lines can become quite long.


2. Escolta Car Park

Located at 220a Escolta Street (near the corner of Yuchengco Street), this is a reliable alternative if you are exploring the heritage side of the district.

Escolta

Why choose it: It is a dedicated 5-storey parking building with security features like CCTV and guards.

Capacity: It accommodates both cars and motorcycles.

Details: It is centrally located near many historical landmarks and local businesses.




Street Parking: The Gamble

While you may see street parking available along areas like Ongpin, Sto. Cristo, Veronica St., or Soler St., it is often considered a "gamble."

  • Risks: Street parking is limited and highly competitive. You run the risk of vehicle scratches, unauthorized "attendants" demanding fees, or even being ticketed/towed if you accidentally park in a restricted zone.

  • Best Practice: If you must use street parking, ensure you are in a clearly marked legal slot. Never leave valuables visible inside your vehicle. Be prepared to pay the local parking fee, but be wary of "unofficial" parking collectors who do not issue legitimate tickets.




Quick Tips for a Smoother Experience


Go Early: Whether you choose a mall or an open-air lot, arriving before 10:00 AM drastically increases your chances of finding a good spot and avoids the heavy "lunch rush" traffic.

Consider Alternatives: If you are coming from further away (such as Cavite or the Southern Metro), many visitors prefer to park at major transport hubs like PITX and take the LRT to avoid the Binondo traffic entirely.



Walking is Key: Binondo is a compact, pedestrian-friendly district. Once you find a secure parking spot in a mall like Lucky Chinatown, it is often faster and less stressful to walk to your final destination (like a specific bakery or restaurant on Ongpin) than it is to drive from one spot to another.

Lock and Hide: Regardless of where you park, always lock your car and ensure no bags, gadgets, or loose items are visible through the windows.

Safe travels and enjoy your BINONDO FOOD CRAWL!



WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book in Manila:



ALSO IN MANILA



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

Where to Park in Binondo: A Stress-Free Carpark Guide in Manila


Nothing beats a quick weekend staycation to reset, especially when you score an absolute luxury deal in the heart of the Metro. Last weekend, our family packed our bags for a premium overnight escape at The Alpha Suites in Makati to celebrate Josh and Gabby's birthdays.


Thanks to a special booking voucher, we managed to bag a massive 3-Bedroom Suite for only around ₱13,000 a night—an incredible steal given the high-end amenities and sprawling spaces we walked into.

Watch the vlog here:


If you are planning a luxury family staycation in Makati, here is an insider review of what it is really like to stay at one of the top-rated serviced residences in the Philippines.


The Alpha Suites Location

Situated along the Ayala Avenue Extension in Makati, The Alpha Suites offers premium accommodations featuring fully equipped gourmet kitchens, spacious dining areas, and private living rooms. Guests can also enjoy access to extensive, top-tier sports and fitness facilities.


Easily navigable via Waze, the property sits directly across from the Makati Police Station and is a convenient 8-minute walk from the MRT Ayala Station. The building is highly visible and easy to spot thanks to its prominent prominent signage on the facade.




Checking In: A Smooth Recovery and Free Welcome Drinks

Our stay started with a minor scheduling shift. Standard check-in was originally at 2:00 PM, but because the hotel enforces strict deep-cleaning standards, our room readiness was moved to 3:00 PM.


To make up for the hour delay, the front desk generously handed us complimentary welcome drink vouchers redeemable at the 6th-floor pool area. It was a fair trade, and sipping cold drinks by the water was the perfect way to kick off our weekend.



Inside the Massive 3-Bedroom Suite (Unit 10BC)

When we finally unlocked the door to Suite 10BC, any slight annoyance from the delay evaporated. I was completely in awe of the sheer scale of the space.


The layout felt like two separate high-end condominium units seamlessly combined into one massive, modern home.


The entire unit features centralized air conditioning, blazing-fast free Wi-Fi, automatic motion-sensor lighting, and an abundance of flush, hidden storage cabinets integrated beautifully into the walls.


THE ALPHA SUITES - SUITE 10BC MAP


Master Suite
  • King Bed + Smart TV + Walk-in Closet
  • Double Vanity Restroom (His & Hers)

Bedroom 2
  • Two Double Beds + Private En-Suite

Bedroom 3
  • Double Bed + Pull-out Bed + Work Desk
  • Dedicated Restroom across the Hall

Living & Dining
  • Floor-to-Ceiling Glass + Remote Blinds
  • Kitchen Island + 6 Sleek High Chairs

Full Kitchen
  • 5-Burner Induction + Oven + Dishwasher
  • 2-Door Fridge + Washer & Separate Dryer


Premium Living and Dining Areas

The open-concept living area is framed by magnificent floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering expansive city views. For privacy or mid-day naps, a simple click of a remote control automatically lowers the motorized window blinds.


The dining area features a pristine white center island table paired with six elegant high chairs, making it a wonderful spot for family bonding.



A Fully Equipped Chef’s Kitchen

For families who prefer home-cooked meals during a staycation, this kitchen is a dream.


It is fully packed with:

  • A sleek under-mount sink and electric water kettle

  • A microwave, a baking oven, and a premium 5-burner induction cooker

  • A complete set of high-quality kitchenware, dishes, and utensils

  • Complimentary iced coffee mixes and 6 bottles of drinking water

  • A premium automatic dishwasher (which we didn’t need to use, but loved having as an option)


Hidden Utility Conveniences

Tucked discreetly near the dining area is a large two-door refrigerator, a front-load washing machine, and a completely separate clothes dryer. Having a dedicated dryer is a massive lifesaver for families; we used it to instantly dry our wet swimming attire so we wouldn't have to pack damp clothes into our bags.


Luxury Bedroom Layouts


The Master Bedroom: Features a plush king-size bed, a dedicated flat-screen TV, and a gorgeous walk-in closet with automatic sensor lighting. The en-suite master bathroom is wrapped in floor-to-ceiling mirrors, boasting a hot-and-cold rain shower and a luxurious double vanity ("his and hers") sink setup.


The Second Bedroom: Ideal for kids or extended family, equipped with two comfortable double beds and its own private, attached bathroom.

The Third Bedroom: Holds a cozy double-size bed with a clever pull-out bed underneath, alongside a quiet, spacious office desk setup. A separate full restroom sits directly across the hallway.



5-Star Amenities: Poolside Relaxation and Indoor Sports

By late afternoon on our first day, we headed straight down to the 6th floor to check out the iconic pool area.


Sprawling Lagoon Pool

The pool deck is beautifully landscaped with lush trees and tropical plants, making you forget you are in the middle of the busy Makati Central Business District. The main swimming pool runs 5 feet deep, while a separate 2-foot deep kids' pool keeps the little ones safe.


The hotel maintains strict safety and hygiene rules: no outside food or beverages are allowed on the deck, but they provide free premium pool towels and colorful floaties for children.


We claimed our free welcome drinks at the poolside lounge bar—the fresh Mango Passion Fruit blend was absolute perfection.


THE ALPHA SUITES AMENITIES GUIDE


4th Floor
  • Main Breakfast Buffet Venue
  • Indoor Basketball, Tennis & Badminton Courts

5th Floor
  • 500-sqm High-End Gym & Fitness Center
  • Indoor Kids' Playroom & Billiards Hall

6th Floor
  • 500-Meter Lagoon Pool & 2ft Kids' Pool
  • Poolside Bar, Lounge, & Resort Cabanas


High-End Sports Facilities & Wellness

On day two, we explored the rest of the complex. The sheer volume of amenities inside this property is unmatched:

5th Floor: A fully supervised indoor kids' playroom, a billiards hall, and a massive 500-square-meter professional gym.

4th Floor: High-ceiling, championship-scale indoor courts for basketball, badminton, and tennis, plus a high-definition virtual golf simulator.


The property also houses an upscale day spa and a professional hair salon for guests looking for premium pampering.



Staycation Dining: From Filipino Comfort Food to Authentic Taho

You will never go hungry staying here. The property itself is a massive culinary hub, but it is also steps away from Makati's top dining districts.


Dinner at Ayala North Exchange

For dinner on our first night, we took a short walk over to the nearby Ayala North Exchange mall complex.


We dined at Sunrise Dreams, an excellent restaurant specializing in authentic Filipino cuisine.

Our family favorites included:

Pork Steak: Incredibly tender, perfectly marinated, and easily the highlight of the meal.

Laing & Kare-Kare: Rich, creamy, and packed with traditional flavors.

Pork Sinigang: A wonderfully sour, comforting broth filled with tender meat and fresh vegetables.


Before heading back up our unit, we grabbed a few quick groceries at a nearby convenience store. We used our kitchen to whip up a midnight snack of hot french fries and local pika-pika (finger foods) while watching movies.



The Alpha Suites Breakfast Buffet Experience

We woke up at 7:00 AM for the complimentary breakfast buffet on the 4th floor. The spread is enormous, covering international, Asian, and continental selections.


I loaded my plate with an American breakfast lineup: fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, French toast, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruits, paired with hot coffee.


The absolute best part? They have an authentic Taho station. It tasted exactly like the traditional street-vendor taho with warm silken tofu, sweet arnibal syrup, and sago pearls.


The 9 Signature Specialty Restaurants Inside Alphaland

If you choose to dine inside the complex, you have access to nine world-class international restaurants:

Balesin Islander (Filipino Regional Cuisine)

Tosca (Fine Italian Pastas & Pizzas)

Sakura (Authentic Japanese Sushi & Sashimi)

Tang Palace (Traditional Cantonese Specialties)

Mykonos (Vibrant Greek & Mediterranean Plates)

Costa del Sol (Classic Spanish Tapas & Paella)

Mark's Prime Steakhouse (Premium Grain-Fed Steaks)

Salathip (Aromatic Thai Comfort Food)

The Clubhouse / Bon Phở (International Classics & Vietnamese Phở)




A Final Stop at Ramen Nagi Valero

After relaxing and packing up, we checked out comfortably at 1:00 PM. Before heading home, we drove over to Valero Street in Salcedo Village for a late lunch at Ramen Nagi.


I ordered my absolute favorite comfort bowl: the Butao King with signature rich tonkotsu broth, thin noodles, and customized at Level 2 Spiciness for a perfect, subtle kick.


By 3:00 PM, we were officially on our way back home, completely relaxed and refreshed.


Makati Staycation Guide: Nearby Hotels and Things to Do

If you are planning an itinerary around the Ayala Avenue Extension or the West Makati area, here is a quick travel guide to help you maximize your stay.


5 Highly-Rated Hotels Near The Alpha Suites

Should you want to explore other properties in this immediate neighborhood, consider booking these top-rated hotels:

Seda Residences Makati: Located just a few blocks away along Ayala Avenue, offering gorgeous high-rise city views and fully-serviced apartment layouts perfect for long stays.

Valero Grand Suites by Swiss-Belhotel: Tucked away in the quiet, tree-lined streets of Salcedo Village, known for its spacious boutique suites and excellent walkability.

Red Planet Makati Amorsolo: Situated just down the road on Chino Roces Avenue; a highly reliable, clean, and budget-friendly option for minimalist travelers.

Discovery Primea: A premier 5-star luxury hotel located further up Ayala Avenue, famous for its magnificent infinity pool overlooking the skyline and elite wellness spa.

New World Makati Hotel: Located directly across the street from the Greenbelt shopping complex, making it the ultimate choice for luxury retail and central city access.

Valero Grand Suites



Top Things to Do in West Makati

Staying on this side of the Central Business District gives you easy access to culture, food, and relaxation:

Relax at Ayala Triangle Gardens: A 2-hectare green oasis nestled among corporate skyscrapers. It’s the ultimate spot in Makati for an early morning jog, casual strolling, or catching seasonal light shows.

Visit the Yuchengco Museum: Located right inside RCBC Plaza (just a 3-minute walk from The Alpha Suites). It houses beautiful master paintings by Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo, alongside historical Jose Rizal memorabilia.

Explore the Ayala Museum: Located right by the Greenbelt complex, this world-class museum features incredible exhibits on pre-colonial Philippine gold, historic textiles, and the famous hand-carved Diorama Experience.

Shop at the Salcedo Weekend Market: If your staycation falls over a Friday night, wake up early on Saturday morning and walk to Jaime Velasquez Park. It is widely considered one of the best outdoor gourmet food and artisanal lifestyle markets in Metro Manila.

Go Café Hopping in Salcedo and Legazpi Villages: These quiet, residential enclaves are packed with cozy, third-wave coffee shops, hidden brunch spots, artisan bakeries, and intimate wine bars perfect for an afternoon wind-down.



THE ALPHA SUITES: 3-Bedroom Stay in Makati (Staycation and City Tour)

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