For the Jet-Setters: What Sights To See in Your Layover Near the Manila Airports
BY Inquirer Lifestyle
• 5 min. read
While we’re told that the journey is much more important than the destination, at a layover, we’re often left twiddling our thumbs and dying to finally head back aboard the plane. The same, however, cannot be said about Manila. With these sights that will change an idle layover in Manila into an unforgettable memory, you can soon turn a troublesome inconvenience into a worthwhile time.
The gold standard for modern living
The outdoor spaces of SMDC Gold Residences were designed by Hong Kong-based landscape architect Adrian L. Norman Limited (ALN) and world-class designer Michael Fiebrich Design (MFD). SMDC Gold Residences is located at NAIA Rd, Pasay, Metro Manila.
Across NAIA Terminal 1 lies Gold Residences, an architectural marvel unlike any other. It is within SMDC’s first township, Gold City, a stunning 11.6-hectare master-planned community that serves as the perfect welcome from the airport.
Setting the gold standard for modern living, Gold Residences embodies luxury and opulence through its sophisticated aesthetic, architecture, and top-of-the-line amenities. Beyond that, its premium location next to some of the metro’s hottest destinations makes it indeed the perfect investment for the globe-trotting traveler. The mere sight of Gold Residences can easily entice and turn a temporary layover into a long-term stay.
Soon, you can enjoy life in a home just a ride away from the best attractions in the city.
A stroll through Filipino aeronautics history
For the astute history buff, a short visit to The Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum (PAFAM) could certainly be just what you need. Have your Top Gun moment and learn a thing or two about Philippine aeronautics history.
The PAFAM is the premier repository of historical and cultural heritage properties of the Philippine Air Force (PAF). Aside from the imposing showcase of real and past aircraft that have seen their fair share of action, the museum also contains displays of local military arts and sciences, culture, and history.
The Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum is a non-profit, permanent institution located at Andrews Avenue, corner Sales Street, Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base.
Where childlike wonder is brought to life
If you’re with children who can’t stay still or are simply in search of nostalgia and a good time, head over to DreamPlay where childlike wonder is brought to life.
Enter the exhilarating world of How to Fly Your Dragon and build your own handcrafted dragon at Hiccup’s workshop. Be the Dragon Warrior you were meant to be and learn the art of Kung Fu at the Furious 6 Academy alongside Po, Crane, Viper, Monkey, Mantis, and Tigress. And if you’re a little tired, watch some of your favorite films and television shows from DreamWorks at The Dreamtheater.
DreamPlay is DreamWorks’ 1st theme park located at City of Dreams Manila and features all kinds of attractions featuring some of your favorite film characters.
Asia’s mall: SM Mall of Asia
A little shopping never hurts anybody so head over to SM Mall of Asia (MOA), the largest mall in the Philippines, and explore their massive offerings of mouth-watering bites and luxurious boutiques.
Drop by IKEA, the largest branch in the world, located right here in the Philippines, or maybe catch an immersive 3D film at the IMAX theater. And while you’re at it, maybe have your picture taken next to the iconic globe for the full MOA experience.
SM Mall of Asia (MOA) is located at Seaside Blvd, 123, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila.
A breath of fresh air
After hours inside the plane and the airport, you need to stay mobile to feel rejuvenated. Just outside SM Mall of Asia on Seaside Boulevard, have a breath of fresh air and take a walk away from the confines of the metro at SM by the Bay. Nearby, there’s also an amusement park where you can enjoy a number of rides, including the MOA Eye, an 80-foot tall ferris wheel that offers a one-of-a-kind view of Manila Bay and the surrounding cityscape.
The SM MOA Seaside is located at Seaside Blvd, 123, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila.
For your next unplanned layover, discover the sights to see from SMDC Gold Residences here.