Manila is now more
than just a jump-off point to the island destinations that the Philippines has
to offer. The city is buzzing with its countless developments -- business
districts, city parks, suburban food streets, massive casinos, and, in true
Filipino fashion, small pockets of calm and charm. This often-overlooked city
in Southeast Asia is stepping out of the shadows, and everyone can sense it --
Manila's time to shine is now.
The New Kid On the
Block
There was a time when the Philippines was something of a
joke -- the sick man of Asia just as recently as 2003. But look at it now -- a irresistible
wave of revival has swept throughout the
nation. The country has had two investment grade upgrades from international credit ratings agencies,
Moody's and Fitch. It has clinched a spot on the hot lists of travel magazines
like Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and DestinAsian. International stars have
recently graced local and international
events here, or have flown in, to simply swim in our beaches (Sarah Jessica
Parker appearing for the opening of the newest mall, SM Aura, Vin Diesel hosting the Asian premiere of his movie Fast and the Furious 6, and TV star
Emily Van Camp from Revenge, enjoying
her beach vacation in Amanpulo, Palawan).
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| DestinAsian magazine with beautiful Bianca Elizalde on the cover |
