ON THE ROAD

Manila

Thanks to regular trips to the Philippines capital for trade fairs and to see her manufacturers, Jennifer is full of handy tips

Best way to spend an afternoon

“Take one of Carlos Celdran’s walking tours through old Manila – the area known as Intramuros. Carlos has a wealth of knowledge about Manila and will talk you through from pre-Hispanic Manila to the present day. He is also full of anecdotes and, in true Filipino style, a snack is provided.” www.celdrantours.blogspot.com

Best spot for merienda

“Filipinos love to eat! Merienda is the meal between lunch and dinner and the best place to sample local delights is Via Mare. A must-try is bibingka, wood fire-cooked rice cake in banana leaves and covered with butter, cheese and grated coconut. Also try pancit, a noodle dish, and lumpia, a fresh bamboo shoot spring roll.” www.viamare.com.ph.

Best jetlag remedy

“With Spaholics Home Spa, you can enjoy the full spa experience without leaving your hotel room. Trained therapists arrive armed with massage beds, fresh linen and relaxing music. Prices are really low – about a quarter of what you’d pay at a hotel spa. An hour-long massage is PHP500 (S$16/A$12).” tel: +63 (0)2 633 5880, www.spaholics.com

Best houseware shopping

“Two major department stores here both have great houseware departments, where you can pick up traditional crafts. Rustans and Shoemart both offer shells, wooden bowls and carvings, placemats and coasters, and native fabrics. They are located next to each other in the Glorietta area of Makati. I visit them often.” www.rustans.com, www.smshoemart.com

Best spot for a nightcap

“A new place in Fort Bonifacio is CAV Wine Shop and Café. Their Enomatic Wine Dispenser has a selection of 24 wines, with serving options ranging from a tasting to a half glass or glass. Obtain a card from the staff to dispense your wine. Then just settle the bill at the end of the night.” Quadrant 8, Bonifacio High St, tel: +63 (0)2 856 1798