An Expat’s Guide to Life in Makati
An Expat’s Guide to Life in Makati
Foreigners staying in the Philippines because of temporary work assignments or who have decided to stay in the country for good are familiar with the country’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and sense of community. Its stable economy, local business culture, and stunning landscapes are all a compelling reason for expats to work in the Philippines. The influx of expats is no more apparent than in the Makati CBD.
With such an exciting opportunity for cultures to meet, these individuals need a convenient way to access everything the city offers. The answer is this: an affordable car rental service.

Makati: An Attractive Haven for Expats
More and more expats who work in the Philippines are gravitating towards Makati for various reasons. The vibrant city is home to a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life — from fresh graduates looking for their first job to sidewalk vendors selling all manner of things, the city offers an amazing local experience.
As the country’s richest city, Makati is a progressive business district that presents various career opportunities to foreign companies and investors. A report from the Manila Bulletin reveals that the city already surpassed its 14.5-billion revenue target for 2017 by 6 percent in October of that same year.
The city also has an international flavor that is welcoming to expats. Its ever-dynamic arts and culture scene, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) accredited IT buildings, and spirited nightlife all provide a unique glimpse of Filipino culture, history, and creativity.
Most importantly, Makati is full of restaurants, coffee shops, and office buildings that help define the city’s cosmopolitan lifestyle.
An Exceptional Dining Experience
Expats in Makati know the importance of good food, especially when it comes to cuisine from their home countries. Thankfully, food choices in the city have expanded, and expats have a wide array of dining options. These include:
Old Manila
Located in The Peninsula, this fine-dining restaurant boasts innovative fusion flavors in every dish and an elegant, contemporary ambiance. The restaurant features Modern European cuisine presented in bold and unexpected ways. Guests will enjoy an exotic dining experience surrounded by artworks from distinguished Filipino artists.
XO46 Heritage Bistro
Expats seeking a local culinary experience can satisfy their craving at XO46. The restaurant puts a lot of effort into how to make the dining experience uniquely Filipino, from the server attire to the impressive interiors.
Wildflour Café + Bakery
Wildflour offers delicious, premium-priced food in a warm and peaceful atmosphere. The café features a selection of freshly baked artisanal bread in a spacious, loft-like dining space. The restaurant serves international fare and a delectable brunch and all-day dining menu that never disappoints

An Aromatic Blend of Coffee
Finding the ideal work spot that has a quiet space, good food, and excellent coffee is within reach for expats staying in Makati. With these coffee place suggestions, they can stay productive or socialize while enjoying a wide range of caffeinated drinks.
Toby’s Estate
Toby’s Estate is a specialty Australian coffee roaster and retailer that serves the finest blends. Its flagship branch in Salcedo, Makati has an inviting façade with a high-rise ceiling and bright interiors. The café serves all-day breakfast and sandwiches. Moreover, it offers a conducive atmosphere for business meetings or casual dates with friends.
Local Edition
A café that inspires patrons to let their creative juices flow, Local Edition is a place where expats can stay to enjoy great coffee, as well as delectable food and pastries. It sources coffee locally and extracts them from special machines that provide rich and bold aromas and flavors.
Yardstick
A pioneer third-wave coffee shop in the Metro, Yardstick stands out because of its Minimalist appeal and upbeat colored signs. The café floor contains movable furniture. Additionally, guests are free to interact with the baristas for a more personal coffee experience. The café rotates its menu at least twice a year to keep its selection fresh.

Innovative Office Buildings
Makati is home to several retail establishments, BPO companies, and multinational corporations that give the city a distinct flair. The city is appealing to expats because of its boundless career opportunities and multicultural environment. These buildings include:
PBCOM Tower
PBCOM Tower is the second-tallest building in the country. It is a 52-story building and an eight-level radio tower. It boasts world-class facilities, an extensive dining area, garden, and helipad. The building is the office location of leading companies like Philips and Maersk.
The Enterprise Center
A two-tower skyscraper in Makati, The Enterprise Center is a premium-grade building with over 140,000 sqm of office space. It is an architectural landmark along Ayala Avenue with an international food court and private lounge. The companies in the building include HSBC, KSA Realty Corp., and various IT companies.
RCBC Plaza
RCBC is one of the most prestigious office addresses in Makati — the modern office development contains banking chambers, service shops, retail outlets, food courts, open-air courtyards, function rooms, museums, and more. Some of its international corporate tenants include Caltex, Malayan Insurance, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
Makati is a vibrant lifestyle hub that expats will enjoy. Its unique cosmopolitan lifestyle makes the city a perfect venue for career growth, as well as relaxation and entertainment. With its economic vibrancy and distinct charm, expats will find a place to call home.
Contact us today, and we’ll find a transportation solution to help you get around Makati and the Metro more conveniently.