Renowned as one of Makati’s most popular leisure parks the Ayala Triangle Gardens is a public space like no other in the CBD. Frequented by nature lovers, expatriates and families the triangle shaped garden flanked by Makati Avenue, Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas is truly the epicenter of recreational activities in the capital. Revamped and launched as a premier leisure hub as recently as 2010 the Ayala Triangle Gardens has enjoyed unparalleled popularity among residents and visitors for the eclectic nature of its attractions and its unassuming, care-free identity. Spread out over an expansive area of 20,000m2 this verdant landscape with more than a hundred tropical trees and foliage is also rightfully described as the “lungs” of a truly cosmopolitan CBD.
One of the must-see highlights at the venue is of course the daily Symphony of Lights and Sounds Display which illuminates the area with multi-hued lights synchronized to perfection from 6pm to 9pm. The hour long show is a regular part of the garden’s year end calendar and takes place till December 30th.
Other points of interest scattered around the venue include its many cultural monuments. Celebrating local heroes and folk legends the statue of Gabriela Silang is perhaps one of the most intriguing sculptures at the venue. Crafted by Jose M. Mendoza in the early 1970’s the statue pays tribute to the Filipina heroine who led the uprising against Spain in the 1700’s. The Sultan Kudarat monument is a similar homage to a local hero for his defiant stand against the Spanish in the 1600’s while the country’s modern day icon Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino Jr. is also remembered with a sculptural likeness at the Ayala Triangle Gardens.
The Filipinas Heritage Library is also on-site and serves as the country’s leading institution on art, history, language, social sciences and religion. Lined with Wi-Fi hotspots, chic bistros and international coffee chains some of the food and beverage highlights at the park include Momo Café, the Banapple pie house and Golden Spoon frozen yoghurt hub. The Omakase Japanese restaurant, Wee Nam Kee Singaporean eatery and authentic Filipino café Kanin Club are also worth the visit while Amici is the best gelato vendor in the locale.
Travellers in search of a well-situated Manila apartment should look no further than the plush living spaces at Ascott Makati. Offering guests a range of Manila serviced apartments suited for both business and leisure requirements this renowned establishment provides accommodation par excellence in the Philippine capital.