Makati Business District

Manila's financial district with the highest safety levels. You'll pay more for everything but get reliable service and heavy security. Good choice if you prioritize safety over experiencing local Manila.

Makati is the financial district - business people in office towers during the day, restaurants and bars filling up with young professionals after work. Ayala Avenue and the side streets of Salcedo and Legazpi Villages have good lighting, security guards everywhere, and regular police patrols, so it feels safe even late at night. Everything costs tourist prices, but plenty of people eat alone at restaurants while working on laptops, so you won't feel out of place. The crowd is wealthy Filipinos, expats, and tourists staying in upscale hotels. Most places default to English. It's corporate and a bit soulless - could be any business district anywhere - but if you want safety and comfort over local character, this is your best base. Early morning or evening walks are fine, though midday is too hot and polluted.