I live in BGC and love it, but it is a bubble and not really indicative of what it's really like in the Philippines. My main reason for living here is work. I need reliable high speed internet. BGC is the only city in the Philippines where the powerlines are completely underground, so no brown out issues. It's also very walkable. I can literally walk everywhere. High Street is really nice and Forbestown and Burgos Circle has an almost bohemian character to it with local bars and restaurants. And so many malls. Literally everything you need is here. Plus, like you said, just minutes from the airport to fly out anywhere and also a 1 to 2 hour drive gets you to the mountains around Tagaytay. It's got everything I need and it's extremely safe. I don't feel the safety in Makati as I do in BGC walking at night. I'm not into bar life clubs, and women that Makati offers. BGC is a little more high end but still cheaper than the states.
@@dayangmarikit6860 aside from that also Reclamations projects like New Horizon, Solar City, SM reclamations project in Manila and Cebu, Sentosa, and Mandani Bay. For expats remember, Philippines is still a developing country.
Glad you both enjoyed Makati and BGC. Lots of foreigners/expats skip Metro Manila and just go straight to the provinces so they have the view that the entire country is undeveloped when you can actually enjoy a modern/western lifestyle in both BGC and Makati.
Born in Makati and you described it well. It's a fusion of old and new. It has character but also all the conveniences you could ask for in a modern city.
Ortigas Center is like a combination of BGC and Makati. It has the feeling of an old city mixed with and conveniences of a modern city. It is home to SM Mega Mall, one of the biggest malls in the Philippines, as well as big corporations both local and international. Ortigas area is not well known to a lot of foreigners but it is right there in the same alley as Makati and BGC in terms of livability. These townships or Central Business Districts are usually connected by elevated expressways or Skyways thus traveling between them is a breeze though toll fees may add up to your cost when traveling. There are a few more Townships being built in the Metro Manila area and the ongoing infrastructures projects will make traveling around easier.
Yep, there's a lot infrastructure across the country especially Metro Manila. I'm excited in underconstruction New Manila, SM reclamation, and Solar City reclamations in Manila, I can't wait, this will totally make Metro Manila change a lot and become famous, and also it may be a place where expats may consider.
[speaking of Makati]: "It seemed to have a better selection of non-chain restaurants." Chain restaurants give us comfort and familiarity when we are away from home. But the non-chain restaurants give us the uniqueness of the place we are visiting. Whenever I remember the places I've visited around the world, I always remember the non-chain restaurants most fondly.
Well said Bill Green! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan Have you seen our RUclips country playlists yet? ruclips.net/user/VagabondAwakeplaylists
I would pick BGC, but I totally get you on the differences. That Legaspi area did look very nice. Rockwell and Grammercy are nice apartment complexes with easy access to a mall (Century City or Powerplant) - but they're expensive and you'd probably still prefer that Legaspi style.
I was born in Makati and raised in Manila so a certified city girl but now residing in the UK for a long time. I still prefer Makati than BGC because of its mix of old and new characterful buildings that's why I bought a condo in Salcedo Village. Never understood the hype over too polished restos of BGC and prefer the family-run restos in Makati where you'll receive a genuine welcome for supporting their businesses.
There's another city which is Mutinlupa -Filnvest in Metro Manila. That one have more green to it and has a more chill vibe. You should visit it not a bad place to stay if you like parks, malls and buildings in one mix. And if you want more green move to the suburbs of Metro Manila which is Santa Rosa, Check out Nuvalli and Greenfields. That is where I relocated. This cities I gave you are paths less traveled by foreigners and this places should be given more exposure as I feel foreigners are super focus with BGC and Makati alone.
Completely agree with how you partitioned your analysis on the two areas of Manila. We recently relocated here from DC and live in Makati for the reasons you quoted and really love it.
Great video guys. I just spent 3 weeks in BGC and I agree with your assessment. I would like to hear your take on Quezon City. I didn’t make it up there, but it sounds like an interesting spot to assess.
Very helpful comparison thank you although I think I can get it back to Mexico soon I’ve been enjoying Nicaragua but I miss so much about La Paz and of course I’m happy I did not go to wLVIV anyway Keep posting great videos! and thank you very much!
Hey Dan, Off topic, but your traveling kind of started off in India….but there are never any places in India on your top lists. Prices seem very low. No nice cities in India to retire ? Thx !
I agree with you guys,Makati is were we stay when on vaca in the Philippines,we stay at Aruga Hotel and is connected via underground with the most exclusive mall i the Philippines which is the Rockwell Power Plant Mall,if you haven’t seen the Rockwell community you are missing out,you could be rubbing elbows with a celebrity at any given time,you will see actors,opticians and athletes shopping,they’re food court is the best and of course expensive but I always say you get what you pay for,on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons they have a piano player in the food court,the fruits are fresh and the restaurant outside the mall are also good,it’s not for everyone but then again it’s something that you might want to check
This video picks my interest. I will definitely check out those 2 places when I visit the Philippines hopefully next year. Metro Manila is usually not on tourists list of places to visit.
Valid points, we've lived in both areas. Right now were in Taugig City where its very affordable ($300/mo 1 bd rustic renting from a cousin ). I hop in a cab to go to the Swiss Deli in BGC for my European cold cuts and sausages.
Yeah I agree I like them both infrastructure really good in BGC but both r great makati has the green belt and power plant malls which can also have that BGC higher end vibe. Really can’t go wrong with either. Thx guys can’t wait to get back!
Thank you Rudy A.! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
Actually it should be Makati City vs. Taguig City, BGC is just a place in Taguig City, its name is just so popular than the actual City itself. Or BGC vs LEGASPI VILLAGE, POBLACION and AYALA, a place in Makati There is also place in Quezon City called Eastwood City and Pasay City where SM Mall of Asia, Upside Down Museum, Resort World Manila and Bay Area are located, Manila has Intramuros, Harbour Square Manila Ocean Park are located, Paranaque City has Okada Hotel, City of Dreams, Aseana City, Ayala Malls Manila Bay and Solaire Hotel, New Clark City in the North Luzon of Tarlac, Subic Bay in Zambalez where you all can compare to Taguig City and Makati City.
Great review guys, We are thinking of visiting Makati in October for a month, is Makati a reasonable place to use as a base or is it better to stay out side of Manila around the beaches to visit those areas?
That is a budget dependent question. Makati and BGC are two of the more expensive places to live in the Philippines. So if yu have a tight budget it might be better to base yourself somewhere in the provinces.
I did a stay, right at the 'border' to the Makati area, in the Mandaluyoung area just across the river, in the Acqua residences (I recommend it); I thougt it would be cheaper (?). I agree with your review about the restaurants, and 'food people' I talk to say Manila, if you search for it, has really amazing restaurants. ( but also cost more!) I love to visit restaurants in the expensive hotels (where I do not stay!), they often have a great view of the city also. I was on the 33rd floor rooftop of the City Garden Grand Hotel, and also had Sushi in the Dusit Thani hotel, it was good and not to expensive. (by the way, please, how about the travel ensurance, do they also demand it in the extension period, or only in the first 30 days?) Thanks for sharing, and GBY!
Thanks for the information. I’m planning to retire in PI. I like both cities. Once the rail system is up an running, it should make both cities accessible to other parts of the country. 👏👏👏👍✌️🛫😜
actually there's soon to be a monorail system in BGC to ortigas center and subway system in makati which is under construction and the biggest railway project of the country the metro manila subway 36 kilometers not including makati subway
Thank you JP Travels! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
Baguio city is my type of city as outdoorsy person. There is something about that mountain views and the air. It's also loved the weather. Its not humid and mild 20-26 celcius afternoon weather. They grow alot of strawberries, grapes and coffee in these region and once your outside city, Sagada is very nice as well.
Sta. Rosa Greenfield/Nuvali area is becoming the more affordable option for people who find Manila expensive, crowded and polluted. Many new middle class homes there. Its halfway between Manila and Tagaytay. If you plan to visit Tagaytay don’t go on a weekend, traffic will be heavy.
You guys are spot on. Makati has soul and BGC does not have any yet. Maybe because it is a new development. Makati has villages, like little tokyo, specialty butchers, and carinderias and places to eat which is not a chain. Makati is cheaper too compared to BGC. Thanks
@@VagabondAwake i am born and raised in the City of Manila and I even prefer Manila for all it’s warts and blemishes as it has soul as well. Maybe I am bias because I am a Manileno. BGC is like Singapore a Country with no soul. My opinion ony on Singapore but I have Singaporean friends here in Toronto and they agree with my assessment.
Happy birthday 🎉. I hope to be in your shoes in 8 years. Hopefully it works out well. In a few months I'd appreciate it if you would email me at GM...L. with any advice or relevant information you may feel worthy to share. If not, understandable, either way good luck with your new journey.
At the bottom of our webpage for Makati is a airbnb.com link to where we stayed. vagabondbuddha.com/makati-metro-manila-philippines-retire-early-report/
It is more of a feeling. Like I would take Bangkok over Singapore. Just feels more alive and fun and crazy. But some people prefer Singapore. Luckily we all don't agree on what is ideal. Then that one place would get ruined by overcrowding.
I think the word ypu are looking for is "ORGANIC" ...makati is more organic where local traditional filipino lifestyle and taste is present ..while BGC caters more for corporate and western lifestyle.
Pls try to experience going to Ortigas Center in Pasig, Ayala Filinvest in Alabang, Muntinlupa, Eastwood City in Quezon City, walk around at Rockwell Center area in Makati and in Bay City in Mall if Asia in Pasay City. Dine in at Seascape Al Fresco Restaurant besides Sofitel Hotel in Manila to watch the unobstructive view of the most beautiful sunset at Manila Bay
Hey Oscar Sebello, thanks for sharing this tip with us. I appreciate these kinds of ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Man, I wish I viewed your video before committing to a $1200/month AirBnb condo in BGC. You guys nailed it with the word "soul". It doesn't feel like the Philippines at all, other than the nice people all around. And it's only my first day here, but I don't think I could recommend BGC for single travelers. I see more families and couples.
Hi...can you put a link to the airbnb that you stayed at in makati..sounds nice....love your videos and learning how to slow travel...will start my first journey in makati😃
I think Dan will appreciate Cebu and Cebu City because nature is close to the city. If you're looking for food tripping, go to Maginhawa Quezon City. Then there's Capitolyo Drive in Pasig City.
Hey Kapefrappe Vlog, thanks for sharing this tip with us. I appreciate these kinds of ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Hey utot, thanks for sharing this tip with us. I appreciate these kinds of ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Makati has more character. A good mix of Asia and the West. Go check out the local shopping at the areas around the outskirts of Chinatown. I think the "malls" use the street address as an identifier. They are Wall to Wall stalls selling everything. Narrow aisles, local food courts, etc. Watch out for pickpocketers...
Hey Darryl K, thanks for sharing this tip with us. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
The last time I was in Manila was in 2003. I must say it had a very dystopian vibe. My employer put me up in EDSA (the second downtown after Makati). Every trip I made, I always ended up blowing out black stuff from my nose due to the pollution. Always felt a bit of unease and targeted being a tall white guy there. Never got to BGC, but did get to Eastwood near our office, which is a smaller than BGC but has its own utopian vibe in some way.
HEY GUY'S THEY BOTH LOOK LIKE GREAT CITIES, PERSONALLY I WOULD CHOOSE MAKATI OVER BGC ANY DAY OF THE WEEK, BUT IT'S GOOD TO KNOW THERE IS SUCH A PLACE AS BGC THAT WE CAN TURN TO FROM TIME TO TIME JUST TO BREAK THE MONOTONY AND ESCAPE FROM TIME TO TIME, THX GUYS AWESOME BLOG WISH YOU BOTH, CONTINUED HEALTH AND HAPPINESS, AMEN.
Well said EDMOND PHAREZ! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan Have you seen our RUclips country playlists yet? ruclips.net/user/VagabondAwakeplaylists
Yes. Now is a great time. Not many expats here yet. Many US expats are waiting until they don't need a vaccine. So you have the pick of the litter now if you can come.
Hi guys, We love your videos. I have been searching high and low for your info about Makati and BGC. We are now watching your Makati video and your Makati vs. BGC. We have been staying in Davao City now, but I'm heading back to Seattle late this month. I'm was interested in a good place to stay in Makati and BGC. Jean has never been there touring. We will stay in the Manila area for 4 days before I fly. I hope you can help? Sincerely, RJ and Jean
You are welcome @RJ-tu5ei. Your comment grows our channel. :-) Dan Have you seen our RUclips playlist for each country? ruclips.net/user/VagabondAwakeplaylists
I would pick BGC over Makati as a place to live and I think most Filipinos feel the same way. Describing it as lacking soul is an observation you would expect from a tourist not a resident. Tourists want to see something quaint and unique about a place knowing full well they won't be living there and all they see is Western amenities and dismiss it as soulless. For residents, these same amenities, the walkability, safety, orderliness, easy access and overall higher quality of life are what matters most. There's a reason why BGC costs more than Makati. And no, I don't live in BGC although I wish I did lol.
Quezon City - not in your options - is way tops better than these two, if you want less chained restaurants, more "independent" eateries, as well as cheaper top class accommodations. Makati is for businessmen who want to just go out and eat, and then go back to work. BGC are more family - oriented who choose the famous world - chain restaurants.
Exactly what I thought of BGC doesn’t feel like the Philippines. Living BGC you would need a budget of 100,000 pesos a month. Manila isn’t for me wanna be on the coast.
Thank you Wannabe Digital Nomad! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
I don't really like to compare both because BGC is just the more updated version of Makati. BGC didn't exist some 20+ years ago. They have the same developers that's why they feel similar (and Ayala Land is really known for good quality projects). Even Forbes Park, which is right at the entrance of BGC, the ultra-exclusive subdivision for the higher echelon of society was developed by Ayala. And Forbes Park is still considered part of Makati but BGC suddenly becomes Taguig. It's very different from other parts of Taguig (the city it now technically belongs to). That's why there was a huge and legal kerfuffle some years back as to where BGC should belong to. No matter which is better, which is more modern, the good thing about it is they're just a stone's throw away from each other so you can easily visit one and the other.
OK if too clean for you, better go to smoky mountain,,!!! No pressure!! You both on holiday just enjoy and chill!!!more fun in the Philippines,,!as you have said that BGC a kind have no soul maybe mostly who lives were Koreans and Chinese,,
I think you didn’t take in consideration BGC or makati as a base for travel. Maybe you like coming back from an adventure to a n area without convenience of these areas but I would. The food , the stores, the safety all right here in BGC or makati. To me it’s like a bubble to live in , then when your ready to explore you open the door and on my Dorthy this isn’t Kanas!
there's a new city that's being built like BGC only it's in the province of Pampanga. the New Clark city. it has its own airport the Clark international in few years it will be finished. it's one way of decongesting Manila Ang most of government offices had already moved there.
Makati is and will always be known as the rich city. BGC, is unused land owned by government military base which is Camp Bonifacio. BGC came out from the dark years like mushrooms during thunder and lightning. There was no actual community, but retired military shack houses. Makati is founded in the 1700, people rich and poor are proud of what they accomplished. As far as I remember Makati is always in the list of the cleanest city. Grocery will always be pricey; it accommodates not just locals but people in the embassies. BCG will have more restaurants and that's what it's for the masses. Makati on the other hand has the hotel restaurants and during lunches will be full of politicians and lobbyist. Makati does not need the masses; they are fine without it.
Filipino realtor here. You're right about the history of both areas, but while Makati has had its roots for the "burgis", BGC now is actually more prime in comparison. Certainly not "for the masses". Just in zonal values of real estate property alone, it trumps Makati already.
@@tjjavier I believed what you said. Because it was built later compared to Makati, it was designed accordingly to the times. Unlike Ortigas, that was supposed to be the next Makati and probably better. Progress slowed because of the uncertainty of the times that plagued out country and if I'm right, the land is privately owned. Unlike BGC, it was 20 years in the making. I remember the government sold the land so cheap without public bidding. And the corrupt/non-corrupt government officials have a stake if not but most of the establishments.
@@kapiatgatas Thank you for the history on Ortigas. It was sold cheap without bidding? Didn't know that. Is that how it eventually became owned by Ortigas? Not familiar with Ortigas history as much.
@@tjjavier I was talking about BGC. The land was owned by Camp Bonifacio. Supposedly to be for military housings and other military purposes. The military don't have the money but have unused land.
@@kapiatgatas I believe you mean Fort Bonifacio? There was a public bidding for Fort Bonifacio from what I know. My Dad was part of the board of BCDA back then, and facilitated the bidding process. Metropacific won, but eventually couldn't handle the project, so Ayala Land took over.
Well, well, well I do like what I see, but... No they are both fine. Who knows I may have to pay a visit... Possibly when on a VISA run... In my opinion the Philippines are really about the people so friendly, and funny... They do like to have fun... I realize from living in the West for so long, that many Westerners would be shocked to see the poverty that does exist in abundance throughout the Philippines... Knowing this it kinda makes me feel like these two Metro Areas are perfect little Potemkin villages... I have high hope for the Philippine People... I realize visitors to the Philippines can only do so much... I noticed something different about Qiang, she seems to be taller? That can't be right... It must be me... Dan you better keep an eye on her... She might get to big for her britches... 555
The only thing we are guaranteed in life are death, taxes, and change. I have already lived one thousand lives T.D. Change goes down pretty easy these days. Dan
@@VagabondAwake True without a doubt brother... Change is the True Constant in life... Adaptability is nice quality to possess, and master... But sometimes life reminds me that I am just a dreamer, and I am strangely okay with that... Till next time... Time to leave...
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I live in BGC and love it, but it is a bubble and not really indicative of what it's really like in the Philippines. My main reason for living here is work. I need reliable high speed internet. BGC is the only city in the Philippines where the powerlines are completely underground, so no brown out issues. It's also very walkable. I can literally walk everywhere. High Street is really nice and Forbestown and Burgos Circle has an almost bohemian character to it with local bars and restaurants. And so many malls. Literally everything you need is here. Plus, like you said, just minutes from the airport to fly out anywhere and also a 1 to 2 hour drive gets you to the mountains around Tagaytay. It's got everything I need and it's extremely safe. I don't feel the safety in Makati as I do in BGC walking at night. I'm not into bar life clubs, and women that Makati offers. BGC is a little more high end but still cheaper than the states.
Hi JJ Stoltenberg, Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. Best, Dan
We are making a larger and more modern city in the Philippines, it's (New Clark City).
@@dayangmarikit6860 aside from that also Reclamations projects like New Horizon, Solar City, SM reclamations project in Manila and Cebu, Sentosa, and Mandani Bay. For expats remember, Philippines is still a developing country.
Makati feels like Hong Kong.
BGC feels like Singapore.
I’ll choose Hong Kong over Singapore anytime.
Nice analogy. I agree completely.
Never thought of it that way but awesome comparison! Spot on! 💯
Glad you both enjoyed Makati and BGC. Lots of foreigners/expats skip Metro Manila and just go straight to the provinces so they have the view that the entire country is undeveloped when you can actually enjoy a modern/western lifestyle in both BGC and Makati.
What the best provinces then?
Thanks for the great question Atlas! I will cover that in future video.
Born in Makati and you described it well. It's a fusion of old and new. It has character but also all the conveniences you could ask for in a modern city.
Ortigas Center is like a combination of BGC and Makati. It has the feeling of an old city mixed with and conveniences of a modern city. It is home to SM Mega Mall, one of the biggest malls in the Philippines, as well as big corporations both local and international. Ortigas area is not well known to a lot of foreigners but it is right there in the same alley as Makati and BGC in terms of livability. These townships or Central Business Districts are usually connected by elevated expressways or Skyways thus traveling between them is a breeze though toll fees may add up to your cost when traveling. There are a few more Townships being built in the Metro Manila area and the ongoing infrastructures projects will make traveling around easier.
Thanks for sharing this infromation Dam.
Yep, there's a lot infrastructure across the country especially Metro Manila. I'm excited in underconstruction New Manila, SM reclamation, and Solar City reclamations in Manila, I can't wait, this will totally make Metro Manila change a lot and become famous, and also it may be a place where expats may consider.
[speaking of Makati]: "It seemed to have a better selection of non-chain restaurants."
Chain restaurants give us comfort and familiarity when we are away from home. But the non-chain restaurants give us the uniqueness of the place we are visiting. Whenever I remember the places I've visited around the world, I always remember the non-chain restaurants most fondly.
Well said Bill Green! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan
Have you seen our RUclips country playlists yet?
ruclips.net/user/VagabondAwakeplaylists
Yes, the Philippine's looks like a very beautiful country! I love the way you have shown it.
Your right they do a great job
Great video! Thank you for the comparison. Making the trip soon and this was my dilemma deciding between the two.
I would pick BGC, but I totally get you on the differences. That Legaspi area did look very nice. Rockwell and Grammercy are nice apartment complexes with easy access to a mall (Century City or Powerplant) - but they're expensive and you'd probably still prefer that Legaspi style.
Thanks for the tips!
I was born in Makati and raised in Manila so a certified city girl but now residing in the UK for a long time. I still prefer Makati than BGC because of its mix of old and new characterful buildings that's why I bought a condo in Salcedo Village. Never understood the hype over too polished restos of BGC and prefer the family-run restos in Makati where you'll receive a genuine welcome for supporting their businesses.
Perfectly articulated in my opinion. Exactly how I feel.
It's interesting to have the perspective of foreigners comparing Makati vs BGC. BGC is newer and built with the layout of a western city.
Yes, modern western cities require more green space.
There's another city which is Mutinlupa -Filnvest in Metro Manila. That one have more green to it and has a more chill vibe. You should visit it not a bad place to stay if you like parks, malls and buildings in one mix. And if you want more green move to the suburbs of Metro Manila which is Santa Rosa, Check out Nuvalli and Greenfields. That is where I relocated. This cities I gave you are paths less traveled by foreigners and this places should be given more exposure as I feel foreigners are super focus with BGC and Makati alone.
Great point!
Completely agree with how you partitioned your analysis on the two areas of Manila. We recently relocated here from DC and live in Makati for the reasons you quoted and really love it.
Thanks for sharing!
Great video guys. I just spent 3 weeks in BGC and I agree with your assessment. I would like to hear your take on Quezon City. I didn’t make it up there, but it sounds like an interesting spot to assess.
Makati has all the ultra old rich people. They have the most expensive subdivisions like. Forbes Park, Dasmarinas Village Bel Air, Urdaneta etc...
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Mike.
Very helpful comparison thank you although I think I can get it back to Mexico soon I’ve been enjoying Nicaragua but I miss so much about La Paz and of course I’m happy I did not go to wLVIV anyway Keep posting great videos! and thank you very much!
Hey Dan,
Off topic, but your traveling kind of started off in India….but there are never any places in India on your top lists. Prices seem very low.
No nice cities in India to retire ?
Thx !
Yes, I lived 3 years ion India. But I only share recent data and I haven't been there in over 5 years. Checkout Goa, that was pretty fun.
Great revelations about the 2 premier suburbs. It's amazing how the differences are between the 2 considering they're only about 2 kms. apart!
I agree with you guys,Makati is were we stay when on vaca in the Philippines,we stay at Aruga Hotel and is connected via underground with the most exclusive mall i the Philippines which is the Rockwell Power Plant Mall,if you haven’t seen the Rockwell community you are missing out,you could be rubbing elbows with a celebrity at any given time,you will see actors,opticians and athletes shopping,they’re food court is the best and of course expensive but I always say you get what you pay for,on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons they have a piano player in the food court,the fruits are fresh and the restaurant outside the mall are also good,it’s not for everyone but then again it’s something that you might want to check
This video picks my interest. I will definitely check out those 2 places when I visit the Philippines hopefully next year. Metro Manila is usually not on tourists list of places to visit.
Valid points, we've lived in both areas. Right now were in Taugig City where its very affordable ($300/mo 1 bd rustic renting from a cousin ). I hop in a cab to go to the Swiss Deli in BGC for my European cold cuts and sausages.
Yeah I agree I like them both infrastructure really good in BGC but both r great makati has the green belt and power plant malls which can also have that BGC higher end vibe. Really can’t go wrong with either. Thx guys can’t wait to get back!
Thank you Rudy A.! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
Actually it should be Makati City vs. Taguig City, BGC is just a place in Taguig City, its name is just so popular than the actual City itself. Or BGC vs LEGASPI VILLAGE, POBLACION and AYALA, a place in Makati
There is also place in Quezon City called Eastwood City and Pasay City where SM Mall of Asia, Upside Down Museum, Resort World Manila and Bay Area are located, Manila has Intramuros, Harbour Square Manila Ocean Park are located, Paranaque City has Okada Hotel, City of Dreams, Aseana City, Ayala Malls Manila Bay and Solaire Hotel, New Clark City in the North Luzon of Tarlac, Subic Bay in Zambalez where you all can compare to Taguig City and Makati City.
Good job guyz, thanks 💕🕵🏼
The nice thing about BGC is there are no visible power and telephone lines. They are all underground
Great review guys,
We are thinking of visiting Makati in October for a month, is Makati a reasonable place to use as a base or is it better to stay out side of Manila around the beaches to visit those areas?
That is a budget dependent question. Makati and BGC are two of the more expensive places to live in the Philippines. So if yu have a tight budget it might be better to base yourself somewhere in the provinces.
Hi guys I'm here finally I'm in Taguig an loving it!
I did a stay, right at the 'border' to the Makati area, in the Mandaluyoung area just across the river, in the Acqua residences (I recommend it); I thougt it would be cheaper (?). I agree with your review about the restaurants, and 'food people' I talk to say Manila, if you search for it, has really amazing restaurants. ( but also cost more!) I love to visit restaurants in the expensive hotels (where I do not stay!), they often have a great view of the city also. I was on the 33rd floor rooftop of the City Garden Grand Hotel, and also had Sushi in the Dusit Thani hotel, it was good and not to expensive. (by the way, please, how about the travel ensurance, do they also demand it in the extension period, or only in the first 30 days?) Thanks for sharing, and GBY!
Great ideas, thanks!
No travel insurance requested upon extension just upon entry.
Thanks for the information. I’m planning to retire in PI. I like both cities. Once the rail system is up an running, it should make both cities accessible to other parts of the country. 👏👏👏👍✌️🛫😜
actually there's soon to be a monorail system in BGC to ortigas center and subway system in makati which is under construction and the biggest railway project of the country the metro manila subway 36 kilometers not including makati subway
👏👏👍
Sounds great!
Great video. How bad is the air quality in both walking around?
It was pretty good when we were there but that can change if the wind off the ocean dies down. www.iqair.com/philippines/ncr/manila
i prefer makati only because i dated my now wife almost every other week at makati cbd. back then, there was no bgc.
Liked. Will watch later.
Thank you JP Travels! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
Baguio city is my type of city as outdoorsy person. There is something about that mountain views and the air. It's also loved the weather. Its not humid and mild 20-26 celcius afternoon weather. They grow alot of strawberries, grapes and coffee in these region and once your outside city, Sagada is very nice as well.
We hope to see it!
@@VagabondAwake Bring a sweater it gets colder in the morning and evenings.
i prefer bgc, just subbed!!!
Sta. Rosa Greenfield/Nuvali area is becoming the more affordable option for people who find Manila expensive, crowded and polluted. Many new middle class homes there. Its halfway between Manila and Tagaytay. If you plan to visit Tagaytay don’t go on a weekend, traffic will be heavy.
Thanks for the tip Peter. We are in Tagaytay now. Much cooler and greener than Manila. :-) Dan
You guys are spot on. Makati has soul and BGC does not have any yet. Maybe because it is a new development. Makati has villages, like little tokyo, specialty butchers, and carinderias and places to eat which is not a chain. Makati is cheaper too compared to BGC. Thanks
Hi Arniel Jovero, Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. Best, Dan
@@VagabondAwake i am born and raised in the City of Manila and I even prefer Manila for all it’s warts and blemishes as it has soul as well. Maybe I am bias because I am a Manileno. BGC is like Singapore a Country with no soul. My opinion ony on Singapore but I have Singaporean friends here in Toronto and they agree with my assessment.
thanks for video
Good analysis, I’ve been to both many times. Makati is more fun.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Patrick. Dan
Great video, do you have any recommendations for where to stay in makita? Today is my birthday 62 iam retiring in the Philippines.
Happy birthday 🎉. I hope to be in your shoes in 8 years. Hopefully it works out well. In a few months I'd appreciate it if you would email me at GM...L. with any advice or relevant information you may feel worthy to share. If not, understandable, either way good luck with your new journey.
@@freedomwillring6749 thank you, I will keep in touch with you, just send me your email
At the bottom of our webpage for Makati is a airbnb.com link to where we stayed. vagabondbuddha.com/makati-metro-manila-philippines-retire-early-report/
Any building in Legazpi Village in Makati is good.
-Nils
BGC is “too clean”?!? Boy, you can’t win! How absurd.
Highly incongruent with most of the cities there.
It is more of a feeling. Like I would take Bangkok over Singapore. Just feels more alive and fun and crazy. But some people prefer Singapore. Luckily we all don't agree on what is ideal. Then that one place would get ruined by overcrowding.
I agree with your assessment. I vote for Makati between the two
Love you guys more power😊💓
I think the word ypu are looking for is "ORGANIC" ...makati is more organic where local traditional filipino lifestyle and taste is present ..while BGC caters more for corporate and western lifestyle.
There you go. Organic. :-)
great video dan, makati felt more fun and alive to me than bgc. do you plan to visit/report on batangas?
Not sure yet. Do think it is worth a look?
Pls try to experience going to Ortigas Center in Pasig, Ayala Filinvest in Alabang, Muntinlupa, Eastwood City in Quezon City, walk around at Rockwell Center area in Makati and in Bay City in Mall if Asia in Pasay City. Dine in at Seascape Al Fresco Restaurant besides Sofitel Hotel in Manila to watch the unobstructive view of the most beautiful sunset at Manila Bay
Hey Oscar Sebello, thanks for sharing this tip with us. I appreciate these kinds of ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Great as usual
Man, I wish I viewed your video before committing to a $1200/month AirBnb condo in BGC. You guys nailed it with the word "soul". It doesn't feel like the Philippines at all, other than the nice people all around. And it's only my first day here, but I don't think I could recommend BGC for single travelers. I see more families and couples.
Thanks for your thoughts on the idea Oahu Guy!
Hi...can you put a link to the airbnb that you stayed at in makati..sounds nice....love your videos and learning how to slow travel...will start my first journey in makati😃
It is here: vagabondbuddha.com/makati-metro-manila-philippines-retire-early-report/
I think Dan will appreciate Cebu and Cebu City because nature is close to the city.
If you're looking for food tripping, go to Maginhawa Quezon City.
Then there's Capitolyo Drive in Pasig City.
Hey Kapefrappe Vlog, thanks for sharing this tip with us. I appreciate these kinds of ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Try visit Ortigas center or east wood
Hey utot, thanks for sharing this tip with us. I appreciate these kinds of ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Makati has more character. A good mix of Asia and the West.
Go check out the local shopping at the areas around the outskirts of Chinatown. I think the "malls" use the street address as an identifier. They are Wall to Wall stalls selling everything. Narrow aisles, local food courts, etc. Watch out for pickpocketers...
Hey Darryl K, thanks for sharing this tip with us. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
sir you should visit ortigas center im sure you will like it there it is the 3rd biggest business district in the country for now.
Thanks, we will check it out Ram.
I saw on google that the distance between the two places is 2km...how easy/hard/expensive is it to commute to Makati if you live in BGC or vice versa?
They have a service like Uberin the USA. It is called Grab Taxi. It was pretty cheap. The time depends on traffic. About 10-20 minutes.
The last time I was in Manila was in 2003. I must say it had a very dystopian vibe. My employer put me up in EDSA (the second downtown after Makati). Every trip I made, I always ended up blowing out black stuff from my nose due to the pollution. Always felt a bit of unease and targeted being a tall white guy there. Never got to BGC, but did get to Eastwood near our office, which is a smaller than BGC but has its own utopian vibe in some way.
a lot has change since 2003.
Landmark supermarket in BGC is cheaper than most other supermarkets. They have branches in Makati, Quezon City, Sta. Rosa also.
HEY GUY'S THEY BOTH LOOK LIKE GREAT CITIES, PERSONALLY I WOULD CHOOSE MAKATI OVER BGC ANY DAY OF THE WEEK, BUT IT'S GOOD TO KNOW THERE IS SUCH A PLACE AS BGC THAT WE CAN TURN TO FROM TIME TO TIME JUST TO BREAK THE MONOTONY AND ESCAPE FROM TIME TO TIME, THX GUYS AWESOME BLOG WISH YOU BOTH, CONTINUED HEALTH AND HAPPINESS, AMEN.
Well said EDMOND PHAREZ! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan
Have you seen our RUclips country playlists yet?
ruclips.net/user/VagabondAwakeplaylists
A great time to be in the Philippines as I see many men headed your way to find a lolling. Got to know the skinny.
Yes. Now is a great time. Not many expats here yet. Many US expats are waiting until they don't need a vaccine. So you have the pick of the litter now if you can come.
Any report on Ilocos Norte? And the north east coast line? I hear it is good kitesurfing and surfing 🏄♂️…..??
Thanks for the tip. Maybe we will do a day trip up there when we are in Vigan City.
Hi guys, We love your videos. I have been searching high and low for your info about Makati and BGC. We are now watching your Makati video and your Makati vs. BGC.
We have been staying in Davao City now, but I'm heading back to Seattle late this month.
I'm was interested in a good place to stay in Makati and BGC. Jean has never been there touring. We will stay in the Manila area for 4 days before I fly.
I hope you can help?
Sincerely,
RJ and Jean
You are welcome @RJ-tu5ei. Your comment grows our channel. :-) Dan
Have you seen our RUclips playlist for each country? ruclips.net/user/VagabondAwakeplaylists
I agree both Makati and BGC are very nice.
I would pick BGC over Makati as a place to live and I think most Filipinos feel the same way. Describing it as lacking soul is an observation you would expect from a tourist not a resident. Tourists want to see something quaint and unique about a place knowing full well they won't be living there and all they see is Western amenities and dismiss it as soulless. For residents, these same amenities, the walkability, safety, orderliness, easy access and overall higher quality of life are what matters most. There's a reason why BGC costs more than Makati. And no, I don't live in BGC although I wish I did lol.
BCG is beautiful too, no doubt. Hard to go wrong with either really.
I like BGC for restaurants. Antipolo is so much better and nearby areas Cainta, Taytay. View from the rooftop and mountains are chef’s kiss
Thanks for the tips!
Try Eastwood City, Ortigas in Pasig or Alabang in Muntinlupa
Quezon City - not in your options - is way tops better than these two, if you want less chained restaurants, more "independent" eateries, as well as cheaper top class accommodations. Makati is for businessmen who want to just go out and eat, and then go back to work. BGC are more family - oriented who choose the famous world - chain restaurants.
Very helpful comment.
Easy explanation on chain vs non chain restaurants. Also cleanliness etc.
BGC is new. Makati is old.
Exactly what I thought of BGC doesn’t feel like the Philippines. Living BGC you would need a budget of 100,000 pesos a month. Manila isn’t for me wanna be on the coast.
Thank you Wannabe Digital Nomad! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
try east wood quezon city same like makati city
Try to check Eastwood city in Quezon City, also an urban area that needs to be check
I don't really like to compare both because BGC is just the more updated version of Makati. BGC didn't exist some 20+ years ago. They have the same developers that's why they feel similar (and Ayala Land is really known for good quality projects). Even Forbes Park, which is right at the entrance of BGC, the ultra-exclusive subdivision for the higher echelon of society was developed by Ayala. And Forbes Park is still considered part of Makati but BGC suddenly becomes Taguig. It's very different from other parts of Taguig (the city it now technically belongs to). That's why there was a huge and legal kerfuffle some years back as to where BGC should belong to. No matter which is better, which is more modern, the good thing about it is they're just a stone's throw away from each other so you can easily visit one and the other.
enjoy your say in the philippines
Love Powerplant Rockwell makati
Thanks for the tip Di. Dan
OK if too clean for you, better go to smoky mountain,,!!! No pressure!! You both on holiday just enjoy and chill!!!more fun in the Philippines,,!as you have said that BGC a kind have no soul maybe mostly who lives were Koreans and Chinese,,
There are some internationals there but it is mostly well healed Filipinos.
BGC is a new city.Come back after a year or so when mostly everything is finish and see how it looks like.I would choose BGC it has more space.
how about the eastwood city and ortigas city??
Thanks for the tips Bong.
You need to take videos of the sky train there. It is actually pretty efficient to use.
Great idea! Thanks
I think you didn’t take in consideration BGC or makati as a base for travel. Maybe you like coming back from an adventure to a n area without convenience of these areas but I would. The food , the stores, the safety all right here in BGC or makati. To me it’s like a bubble to live in , then when your ready to explore you open the door and on my Dorthy this isn’t Kanas!
Thanks Steve, for your thoughts on this. Dan
👍
Makati has been there a long time it grew itself a soul already. BGC hopefully will too years later
there's a new city that's being built like BGC only it's in the province of Pampanga. the New Clark city. it has its own airport the Clark international in few years it will be finished. it's one way of decongesting Manila Ang most of government offices had already moved there.
Makati is and will always be known as the rich city. BGC, is unused land owned by government military base which is Camp Bonifacio. BGC came out from the dark years like mushrooms during thunder and lightning. There was no actual community, but retired military shack houses. Makati is founded in the 1700, people rich and poor are proud of what they accomplished. As far as I remember Makati is always in the list of the cleanest city. Grocery will always be pricey; it accommodates not just locals but people in the embassies. BCG will have more restaurants and that's what it's for the masses. Makati on the other hand has the hotel restaurants and during lunches will be full of politicians and lobbyist. Makati does not need the masses; they are fine without it.
Filipino realtor here. You're right about the history of both areas, but while Makati has had its roots for the "burgis", BGC now is actually more prime in comparison. Certainly not "for the masses".
Just in zonal values of real estate property alone, it trumps Makati already.
@@tjjavier I believed what you said. Because it was built later compared to Makati, it was designed accordingly to the times. Unlike Ortigas, that was supposed to be the next Makati and probably better. Progress slowed because of the uncertainty of the times that plagued out country and if I'm right, the land is privately owned.
Unlike BGC, it was 20 years in the making.
I remember the government sold the land so cheap without public bidding. And the corrupt/non-corrupt government officials have a stake if not but most of the establishments.
@@kapiatgatas Thank you for the history on Ortigas. It was sold cheap without bidding? Didn't know that. Is that how it eventually became owned by Ortigas? Not familiar with Ortigas history as much.
@@tjjavier I was talking about BGC. The land was owned by Camp Bonifacio. Supposedly to be for military housings and other military purposes. The military don't have the money but have unused land.
@@kapiatgatas I believe you mean Fort Bonifacio? There was a public bidding for Fort Bonifacio from what I know. My Dad was part of the board of BCDA back then, and facilitated the bidding process. Metropacific won, but eventually couldn't handle the project, so Ayala Land took over.
Is that girl Singaporean?
Malaysian
Well, well, well I do like what I see, but... No they are both fine. Who knows I may have to pay a visit... Possibly when on a VISA run...
In my opinion the Philippines are really about the people so friendly, and funny... They do like to have fun...
I realize from living in the West for so long, that many Westerners would be shocked to see the poverty that does exist in abundance throughout the Philippines... Knowing this it kinda makes me feel like these two Metro Areas are perfect little Potemkin villages...
I have high hope for the Philippine People... I realize visitors to the Philippines can only do so much...
I noticed something different about Qiang, she seems to be taller? That can't be right... It must be me... Dan you better keep an eye on her... She might get to big for her britches... 555
The only thing we are guaranteed in life are death, taxes, and change. I have already lived one thousand lives T.D. Change goes down pretty easy these days. Dan
@@VagabondAwake True without a doubt brother... Change is the True Constant in life...
Adaptability is nice quality to possess, and master... But sometimes life reminds me that I am just a dreamer, and I am strangely okay with that... Till next time...
Time to leave...
Tell it like it is BGC is where the rich snobs live 😆 bring your bankroll 👌Stay away from Tondo neighborhood ✌
Thanks for the tip Philip.
I think he should find a fat guy and redo the laurel and hardy comedies