TIDBITS

Some long haul flights still have smoking (i.e. Philippine Airlines) -- get one that doesn't. Nothing is more dangerous to your health than 20 hours in a smoke filled plane. If you can get away with travelling light, with just hand luggage, and get off quickly you can avoid the long queues to get through immigration and customs at Manila. Also, if having to take luggage, then try checking your baggage in as late as you can -- without missing the plane (last bags in, first out, at baggage hall). Always wise to take a good book on board and some things to freshen up during the flight and even a spare set of clothes (just in case they lose your bags). Drink lots of water on the plane and avoid alcohol -- you'll arrive in much better condition (mental and physical)!

HEALTH

Good medical insurance is a must. There are plenty of Hospitals and Medical Clinic's around but, you have to pay for everything. Better be safe than sorry. Dental work in the Philippines is cheap and fairly good, but the standards although good are not up to Western Standards. There are plenty of Drug Stores around for everyday medicines which you can buy -- aspirin and cough drops are bought singularly as well as in packets. Malaria is not a serious problem in the Philippines, but most Doctors (in U.K. at least) advise you take Malaria pills with you (and remember to take them I frequently forget). There are some occasional reports of Malaria but, these are usually confined to the really rural areas (four deaths reported in one of the Provinces whilst I was there).

Water -- never drink the tap water or take "ice" in your drinks. Always drink bottled water. It is hard to avoid ice and if you do take ice, expect the occasional sore throat. Colds can be common (take Zinc Lozenges with you, kills colds before they start, works for me). When venturing onto the streets be aware of the food street vendors sell. The barbecue kebabs look delicious, especially after a few beers, but, a bad case of the runs the following day can be a frequent occurrence. Eat in the restaurants, and buy food from supermarkets -- common sense prevails, OK!

WEATHER

The Philippine Islands are within the tropics which means the climate is hot and humid year-round. (Mean annual temperature nationally is 27° C/80° F; the mean humidity is 77 percent). Rainfall averages about 2,030 millimetres (about 80 inches) a year in the lowlands. In general, the first six months of the year comprise the dry season, while the period July through December brings rain. The hottest period is March through to May. "Typhoon season" is generally considered to be from June to October Use a local internet cafe for current conditions. (weather data, map forcast)

PASAY CITY

We arrived at Manila Airport after a 24 hour trip from the UK with a 18 hour flight by British Airways (£450 rtn) ahead of schedule by 20 minutes. However the passage through immigration and customs introduced us to "Philippine Time" and we were behind schedule by the time we had passed through and collected our baggage! If you can handle only "carry on" luggage and sit in front of the plane (remember, 400 people on that "747") you can cut the time by 50%.

From Los Angeles the fastest connection is with China Air. Mr.Tsm flies Asiana (get AA frequent flyer miles) and you can buy a heavily discounted ticket from a local Korean travel agency in Los Angeles (Continental Travel, ask for Helen Wang -- 213-386-3100). They offer a GREAT business class (seats reclines 145 degrees, all upper deck on a 747-400) ticket for around $15300.00. Since the Seoul/Manila is only two class servive you get upgraded to FIRST! This includes club VIP privileges in their lounges at LAX and Seoul (where there is a free isdn line waiting for you). There is also a cheap ticket (under $500.00) on Canada Airlines that routes through Vancouver - Hong-Kong - Manila from Los Angeles.

On Asiana it's only a two hour wait in Seoul for the connection and if you fly the Tues-Thr flight they upgrade you into first class (sleeper seats) on the Manila leg. Plane is a 747-400c and designed to carry Filipino workers back home, so no business class and automatic upgrade to first.

For airport pick up, you can use the Dakota Mansions -- a driver with a van drove us the 20 minute run in about 40 minutes (TRAFFIC). The Airport pick up service cost P400 for a car or a van. If you are arriving alone and want a taxi there are numerous touts around (if a guy grabs you he is a tout, there is a Yellow taxi stand now as you exit, and the fare to downtown is 250 pesos) but, always agree a price before you get in if you use a taxi from a tout. The trip to Ermita/Malate where we were based should cost no more than P200-250 on the meter. They start at P400, so get ready to argue!

*** More background information, look here ***

Within an hour of leaving The Airport we were checked into our standard Apartment style rooms. Both guys traveling with me were "NEWBIES" and thought the Hotel was excellent.

HOTELS

DAKOTA MANSIONS
Hotel and Residential suites
555 Gen Malvar cor. M Adriatico St
Malate
Manila
Tel # 632-521-0701
E-Mail

(For your discount mention "the attn of the mangeress, Cynthia Astorga -- use my name asa reference John at Coventrybee@msn.com")

A standard room consists of a large living room/Kitchen with A/C and Cable TV a fridge and cooking facilities and utensils. A spacious Bedroom with twin beds or a double bed. And a Marble floor to ceiling, bathroom on suite. The cost is P1700 per night but with 10% through me that is down to P1530 which is excellent value for Manila. This is a basic style accommodations and not for the picky business man (many dark rooms, older building), but a great value for what you get. The rooms above the 7th floor have a window that actually have a view, but are about 300 pesos more.

There is a swimming pool on the roof and the hotel has a bar and restaurant with room service for food and laundry. They exchange Dollars and Yen and have safety deposit boxes free of charge. They are very TSM friendly, infact the Security Guard thought I was "Superman" when I had EIGHT girls arrive in shifts on my last night! They also call you when the girl/s are leaving to check with you that it is ok for them to leave.

The hotel sits in the middle of the Mabini area (thirty minute walk to Vixens) and if a fun area to walk around and explore. Watching the locals do their thing, all the knickknack stores and markets and touts pestering you as traverse the area gives you the feeling of what the city is all about -- colorful chaos! Most bars and Hot Night Life though are fairly far away. Cabs are cheap.

HERITAGE HOTEL

I have been inside the Heritage and had a look as well as a expensive cup of Coffee.!! The rates are $220 a night (P9000) I'm told it is TSM friendly but it does not look the sort of place to do the walk of shame without getting dirty looks all round.. Still if you can afford the price who cares and a bonus is this is where all those cute Asian stews say -- who knows who or what you'll meet in the bar. Very classy place with all the extras

COCACABANA APT HOTEL
264 EDSA Extension
Passy, Metro Manila
831-8711

Sitting right next store to the Heritage and a third the price ( I got a 10th floor apt for 2,400 pesos) this is a modern Dakota Mansion style hotel. A full kitchen in a very modern hi-rise, this is your best bet for quality at a semi-moderate price. Rooms have balconies (yes, some road noise), views, big pool, stocked refridge, cable T.V, and more contemporary than the Dakota but not much to do except walk across the street to the EDSA Bars and party.

If you've never been to Manila I'd still suggest the Dakota because it gives you a feel for the vibrant city of Manila. If your passing through on the way to Angeles and have walked and lived the Mabini experience, then this is your place plus just a few minutes to the international airport.


ANITO BACLARAN
2933 FB Harrison corner Ortigas St,
Pasay City, Tel 831 4641 to 44,
reservations 831 4645,
Fax 831 4646, 815 2079

Hotel is ok, but nothing fancy. Stayed there for a week, saw a lot of cockroaches. Kind of sleasy short time hotel neighborhood. Two blocks from international complex. Actually normally a short time hotel). Nobody asks anything when the girl comes, but no girl escapes without them asking if it is ok to let her leave.

Note: There is an entire chain of Anito Hotels, they are all short time hotels. Anito also picks you up at the airport, for free. Make sure to specify you are in the pickup area, and what is the first letter of your last name, because the pickup area is divided alphabetically. And get their license plate number. Otherwise they will not find you ever among the 10000 people being picked up.

There are a few hotels between Anito Baclaran and the International complex, if you ask around you get a rate that is a bit lower. They charge you two 12 hour periods per day. These hotels offer short time starting at 180 Pisos for 3 hours (28 Pisos 1 US$).

I heard that ANY taxi driver that takes you to a hotel, even when you already have a reservation, gets 10% commission for the ENTIRE DURATION of your stay. So, if you change over to a hotel by foot, try to bargain. But, the best way seems to be to find a nice taxi driver who gives you a kickback (I have a phone number for one who says he does). Just befriend a taxi driver who has a fixed point in front of Makati bars and hotels, see if you strike up a bargain.

WISE HOTEL

If you want it really cheap, try Wise Hotel Pasay. If you come from the ocean on EDSA road, you pass the international complex, after another mile there is a bridge (train?) overe EDSA road. Immediately after this, turn left on Zamora Road. Wise is very simple, 380 pesos for overnight, for one day 735 or 785 Pisos. TSM friendly, short time hotel. But, a simple room with shared bathroom in Robelle gives you a much better environment for the same money.

SHOPPING PLAZAS

ROBINSON PLAZA

Just around the corner from the Dakota hotel (make a right on Andriatico, head towards the Midtown Hotel) is the Robinson Plaza, a new shopping mall which is ideally located for essential shopping (San Miguel Beers at P10.5 and Winston Cigarettes at P13 a packet!). The Supermarket is well located inside the mall to buy those essential provisions that the girls will cook for you later -- usually chicken with rice. There are numerous shops and restaurants inside as well like McDonalds, Wendys, TGI Friday, Pizza Hut and various Steak Houses and Cafe's and, also the Filipino owned JOLLYBEE which covers Burgers, Chicken RICE and such like. Try to use JOLLYBEE it is nice, cheap and helps the Philippine Economy. There is an internet cafe on the third level, next to computer stores.

HARRISON PLAZA

A P25 taxi ride from Dakota will take you too Harrison Plaza which is another good shopping mall and slightly cheaper than Robinsons. They have a "Shoe Mart" store inside (it sells more than shoes.) They have a money changer there but you need your passport as ID it is also excellent for those Souvenir Tee Shirts and Philippine Crafts to take home to Mom and Dad, Uncle Tom Cobbly and all. -- check it out. There are some good restaurants inside as well and a supermarket.

IMPORTANT STREETS

ADRIATICO ST

All along Adriatico St you will find numerous neon lit restaurants and drinking bars, one you won't miss has a crashed Airplane inbeded in the roof! Also along the Street you will find Sari-Sari stores (provisions) and Money Changers (use these they offer a better rate than the Hotels) at the top of Adriatico is the island which has other Bars Clubs (Discos) and Restaurants. Turn right there and your lead up to Roxas Boulevard. (Ten years after, the plane is still here -- a landmark!)

ROXAS BOULEVARD

Runs right along Manila Bay and as you reach it from Adriatico St you will see my favorite Restaurant. THE ARISTROCRAT. This is a 24 hour place that both Locals and Tourist's eat at. The food is good quality and inexpensive, but be warned it gets very busy at peak eating times and the service at those times reverts to "Philippine Time" The Take Away service is useful when returning from the nightlife with company (saves cooking chicken and rice at 3am or later ).

Next door to the Aristrocrat is CASINO FILIPINO which has Blackjack Roulette etc., and charges P100 to enter. Be warned, smart dress essential. Minimum bet at Blackjack is P200.

SAFETY

I have been asked what area's are safe, and which are dangerous etc. And what is crime like. Well use your commonsense and you will not go far wrong. I have been over many times and have NEVER confronted a "ugly or nasty" situation. The Philippines is no worse than any other major city in the World. And far safer than some. I feel just as happy walking around MANILA as I do LONDON for example. Ask at your hotel and taxi drivers if there are any well known trouble spots to avoid if in doubt.

RIZAL PARK

Situated by Manila Bay is generally fine during the day, but a NO at night. You will be approached with all sorts of offers at night. All of which are Taboo and possibly Dangerous. You have a fair chance of being mugged as well.! Stick to the main Bars and areas I have highlighted and you should be fine. Beware for example when walking down Roxas Boulevard at Night, that you do not get side tracked by a Filipino offering you a girl or a nice bar down a back street. They are rip-offs if genuine, and dangerous if not! Again a polite but firm "No" is all you require.

All the highlighted bars have good security and look after its guests, so you rarely find any trouble. Beware also, despite my advice a friend left some money in his suitcase inside his room and even though he had been with one particular girl for two or three days he discovered to his cost ($200) that you can never really trust anyone.

*** Always use the Safety deposit boxes at hotels for money and valuables or use a money belt ***

Again commonsense is what you need to apply in most situations. Use the Taxi's rather than Jeepney's. Taxi's are cheap enough and although Jeepney's are much cheaper than cheap, at night I have heard of pick pockets cleaning out tourists very efficiently. Thankfully, as I have said, I have done many trips and have never had any problem what so ever. If you really want to experiment and look around off the beaten track, try it when you have a girlfriend with you, who will probably know where you can and cannot go safely.

Before we begin our bar tours, it should be noted most Filipino ladies don't work in bars or accept gratitude. Yes, it is possible to romance nice and proper ladies (more true stories latter) and here is some background and thoughts about meeting eligible Philippine ladies that are not "working girls" (yes, I'm in love).

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THE NIGHTLIFE (Pasay Bars) ...

LEAVING FEES

We have been approached by several bars in the Philippines and asked to remove individual references to any particular bars policy and price with regards to a " leaving fee. "

This is because, as most of you will know barfines (we call leaving fees) are not technically legal in the Philippines (although it is common practice). However, to appease the various owners, who are rightly concerned, I have now updated all the bar reviews omitting the exact details of any particular clubs leaving fee price, or policy.clubs leaving fee price, or policy.

(What exactly is a leaving fee? More imortant information!)

Drinks in the Pasay area (San Miguel Beer) range from P65-P90 and Ladies drinks are generally P175 all round. Salary in Manila for girls range from P150-P250 per day and they get up to half the price of a ladies drink as commission The "tip" makes up their money so "tip" as you feel best.

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PRICES IN GENERAL IN THE PHILIPPINES HAVE RISEN BY APPROXIMATELY 20% DUE TO THE DEVALUATION OF THE PESO TO THE DOLLAR ETC -- but, with the exchange rate of the Dollar, Pound etc. having almost doubled in the same period, it is still " GREAT VALUE."

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1.VIXENS (Just re-opened as Axions)

The latest news we seem to have is that the owner has had enough of the corruption. It appears from the posts and grapevine that the Makati Bar owners were putting pressure on Vixens to change their policies and prices to fall more in line with them. Now, with the Philippines being the Philippines (!) is not hard then to put things together and see an increased amount of "hassle" on Vixens by the Authorities. Bad press stories and police raids etc... so the owner has pulled out and heading of to THAILAND.

This has followed a press story that claimed the bar was giving illegal abortions to the girls via a "in house" Doctor the owner had supplied for the girls health checks and medicals (seems you can't even be a responsible owner in the PI and supply Doctor for medical checks) . The allegations proved to be unfounded and no evidence etc...but coupled with the pressure and "kick-backs" The owner decided to close and relocate.

Now there are also stories that they will be re-opened within a week or so as "Actions" night club. It will probably mean some slight changes but, generally I would imagine,they will try and keep it as close to the Vixens image as possible ;-), I will check it out on September 25th.

Another story coming out is that prior to the Elections in May,.. several candidates wanted campaign contributions from the bars, in advance of them getting elected !!! Vixens refused. Now, word has it that the new mayor wants a cool P3,000,000, (3 MILLION !!! OUCH) TO REMAIN OPEN -- i f that is true, and appied to any new owner of "Actions" then I doubt whether it will ever open again!

RATED No1 ( member, just back -- wow).


2. EAST ASIA & BABYLON

Turn left out of Vixens and you immediately see East Asia and Babylon. Both are "SHOWGIRL" Bars (Striptease) but they charge P300 as a cover charge and the shows don't start until 11PM, so don't go early..!! They are expensive and a rip-off as their idea of stripping is laughable---but, if you must , check it out. RATED 10 & 11

3. RED ROOSTER

Sorry I'm a little vague on this one...It is located around the back streets behind Vixens etc. So be careful when looking for it. Ask in Vixens, or find a guide to take you there. It is a small Bar with no disco as such but, a few girls who will keep you company and are fair by Manila standards. Worth searching out if you have got bored with the others. RATED 8

4. PUSSYCAT

A couple of minutes by foot further up the Boulevard towards EDSA is Pussycat. This still remains from 1994. The place I'm sorry to say was a dump then, and still is now. I have never seen any "life" in the place no matter when I have visited and I have been in on every trip I have done. The girls look bored and uninterested, which is exactly how I felt about the place. There was the odd good looker in there but, wasted in my opinion -- could be a whole lot better than it is . RATED 9

5. VISIONS (formerly Vagabonds)

Walk up and across the next major road junction, and you will reach the recently re-named Visions Club. (Opened in March '98) I was there on opening night when there was a good crowd in and a good atmosphere but, both before and since it was fairly quiet. Which is a shame, as there are some nice dancers there, and plenty in numbers too.

There are one or two of the old Mamasan's from the "old" Visions club.And the Bar is run by a "Peter Stringfellow" lookalike German, who is a nice guy. Again, as with so many bars in the Philippines timing is crucial, what will be a quiet bar one night will be a hive of activity another. Visions is no different, it sometimes get's overlooked as it is half-way between the more established and successful Vixens, and the EDSA complex. RATED 5

Note: If you are not in a hurry, the alleys in this area offer interesting diversions. A tout will approach you as you enter the side streets and promise you anything, if only you take a look. You will be shown everything from back door strip joints, sari sari stores with "specials for single males" to naughty brothels. Even if you don't go for all the promises, it is fun to window shop and pay your guide P100 for his troubles.

(Be careful in this area, especially the back alleys were you will be promise "anything" -- and be warned -- it can be dangerous if you walk down the wrong one alone. Don't go into a deserted alley and stay with the crowds)

Warning on scams, this is uncensored, but important to all!!

EDSA COMPLEX AREA

Take another Taxi from Visions (P35) and head for the Heritage Hotel. Opposite the Heritage you will find the EDSA Entertainment Complex with six clubs inside and a snack bar.

6. MY FAIR

The "old" MY FAIR was a poor relation to this excellent club. Two stage set-up is probably the best in town. Two stages are connected by a platform/bridge with the girls dancing right across. Above one of the stages is a pole that the girls slide down from their rest room upstairs. The bar has seating all around for a good close up view of the action (waitress and Mamasan). As in Vixens and several clubs, you can also receive a relaxing massage whilst watching the girls bump and grind on stage -- for the cost of a ladies drink and a P50 tip (try it). This is the best bar for me inside the EDSA complex but, it is still well short of N01 spot Vixens. RATED 2


7.COTTON CLUB (Formerly Australian Club)

Designed to copy the "old" Australian Club and just as good as before. Two floors with three stages and a shop, as well as some VIP rooms.Two stages downstairs and one elevated stage level with the upstairs seating (but, opposite. )Dancers are nice as usual and several "freelancers"
available.

The Usherettes on the doors are still dressed in pink "cowgirl" outfits that even Vixens have taken up on their door. Nice waitress uniforms as well. The real lookers are usually on the door in those cowgirl uniforms -- one change is that before the cowgirls would occasionally take over the stage and do a few routines but, that does not appear to be the case any more (mores the pity). The VIP rooms are for high rollers I believe they cost P3,000 but, that is inclusive of drinks. But, check it out with a waitress or mamasan for exact details. RATED 3


8. FIREHOUSE

Probably the best known club in the Philippines. But, sorry this new one is not a patch on the old one. The place is smaller to begin with and the atmosphere is not quite as good even when they are buzzing with customers. A nice touch on stage is a mock Fire Engine. They do however still have some of the best looking dancers in Pasay. There was one on my last trip who I would have died for -- but, alas I was in company already and when I returned on two other occasions she was nowhere to be seen (I wonder why :-)).

The music is good as usual for Firehouse and they have now opened a club in Cebu as well. Again the place maybe really "hot" some nights but, I have not seen it swinging as good as the "old" Firehouse as yet. RATED 4

9. PITSTOP

This is a new one on me, as it has opened with EDSA complex and not moved from the old bars of '94. It is one of the two smaller clubs in the complex. There was some fairly good lookers on occasions and the size and atmosphere was just about right. The costumes are quite good and it is worth a visit or two. RATED 6

10. CASINO

Situated on the left just as you walk into the complex, this is the smallest and poorest bar inside. Sorry but, I have tried it several times. The service was slow and poor. The stage small and the girls only average by the standards set by the other bars, so I tended to leave this until last, if I bothered at all. Remember different tastes what suits me, may not suit you and vica-versa. And what is a poor bar one night can be the place to be another. RATED 7

11. KARAOKE BAR

In the far corner between the Firehouse and Pitstop you will see the Karaoke bar. These bars are designed for the Japanese market. You won't find any dancers, but usually lots of nice looking girls who will join you for a sing song and a drink.Usual rules apply for barfines but, generally they are more expensive than the go-go bars. As singing is not my strong point :-) and I'm not Japanese, I rarely frequent such establishments. So if any of you out there have more to add about Karaoke Bars, drop me a e-mail and I'll add your information.

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Also inside the complex you will find a little cafe which provides snacks, sandwiches, and light meals. There is also a fruit stall (mangos etc) and a shop which is connected to the Cotton Club. Just outside and to the right there is also a nice Noodle Bar.

MAKATI

Makati Hotel updates

An alternative to the Bars in Pasay is the business centre of Makati. As such Makati is more "up market" and the prices in general reflect that right across the board. If you are based in Ermita or Pasay you can reach Makati by taxi for about P60 on the meter. The Bars in this area are located along P.BURGOS ST. This runs off the start of Makati Ave, and any good taxi driver will know exactly where it is especially, if you ask for JOOLS in P.Burgos St.

Traffic to Makati is stop and go and then stop some more the whole way and is hell in rush hours. Give yourself lots of time and after a few days in the Philippines you'll get used to the constant honking of horns and near fatal accidents :-)

MAKATI BARS

To begin with P.Burgos St is a long and narrow street with bars running all the way up and down. And has, about half way up, a street that runs across that used to be called Emelda Ave (but, has since been re-named
not sure what too ?). This area is ideal for bar hopping (The National sport of the Philippines :-)) Although as mentioned it is far more expensive than Pasay. And for what you might spend here in one night, you would still have change for one week in Angeles ! So be warned it is not cheap.

When leaving the area at night, I would advise you walk back down to Makati Ave and flag a taxi there. Always either agree that the driver uses the meter or agree a set price. Many in P.Burgos Street will try and fleece you at least P100 to return to Ermita/Pasay.


PRICES

The costs in Makati are prohibitive for most tourists, this really is designed to catch the business man on "expenses." Drinks are P90-120 for a San Miguel Beer. Ladies drinks are anything from P220 - P275. Barfines, where available are usually TEN LADIESdrinks so it all adds up :-(. This is before you tip -- and -- most ladies here want P3,000 for a overnight session!

However, no trip to the Philippines is complete without at least one night in Makati, just to look it over. The quality is certainly here. There are as well a few bars around that do not require you to buy TEN ladies drinks and a more realistic bar fine of around P1,000 is available at some places for example. But, you will have to look around and ask the girls or the mamasan to establish what policy they have in each bar.

Another small piece of advice..--Makati's Bars are in my opinion, more "pushy" when it comes to buying those expensive ladies drinks, so wear your smile and start practicing saying " Hindi (no)."

I have been in some bars there, that no sooner have you found a seat, you will find also a swarm of girls (well one or two at least) surrounding you and looking to join you, whilst swapping small talk, the waitress or mamasan will be on you in no time "ladies drinks sir?"

I hate Makati for that, you will just have to be firm and never let yourself be pushed or pressured into buying a ladies drink, until you are good and ready..:-) Always be polite, but firm. Tell them you want to look around first and that you will decide which lady you wish to buy a drink for, and stick to that policy, or it will cost you a fortune. Try talking to some girls briefly first, BEFORE you buy them a drink, make sure you are "hitting it off" before splashing out the piso's.

There are numerous Restaurants around Makati Ave and Hotels as well. But they are generally more expensive than the Ermita Area (more dancers to convince you to visit 1,2,3,4,5).

MAKATI BARS

1. JOOLS

No trip to Manila is complete until you have visited JOOLS. For me you can keep all the other Bars in Makati, I would be happy enough with one visit to Jools (I usually make it a cert to visit at least once per trip to the Philippines). Jools has two floors. Upstairs Monday-Wednesday there are the Dancers who are stunning, well dressed "freelancers" and four floor shows which are an absolute MUST SEE.

They do have a P150 cover charge but, it is well worth it. Drinks are around P90, Ladies Drinks P220 (cheap for Makati!!) There is no nudity on the floor show but, several well put together dance routines with really good (10) lookers and stunning costumes.

Thursday-Sunday it is downstairs, and the same cover charge get's you a Band in addition to the floor show. We had a great night one Saturday and the Band (James Brown ...not the real one!!!) was the best I'd seen in Manila for as long as I can remember. They do change the Band though
each week, so it maybe pot luck if they are good or not! This is the BEST place in Makati for sure.

RATED No1

2. ROGUES

Situated on the right at the bottom of P.Burgos Street. The club is upstairs and has the usual dancers with a Pool table at the back (fairly rare here in Makati) We went there early and enjoyed a game or two. There were a few good lookers (8's and 9's) even at that time when not all the girls had arrived. Maybe, worth trying out later in the evening. RATED 4

3.HOLLYWOOD

High pressure on Ladies Drinks. A small bar with a small stage and a dance area for customers as well. There are a few dark corners for more intimate moments with the one or two real cuties in there. Still a one drink sort of place and then off to venture somewhere better -- may have it's moments though. RATED 8

4. RITZY'S

Further up the street and on the corner of the cross roads (formerly Emelda Ave) and before you reach Jools is Ritzy's. I think this still rates as second best to Jools. A large bar with a main stage and a small one in the middle of the bar. There are always plenty of dancers most of which were good looking and flirtatious :-). Nice costumes and no ten ladies drinks policy here. Good sound system and a steward in the C.R. who will massage you and give you a hot towel etc -- (nice touch, I mean the service not the steward) RATED 2

5.NIGHTWATCH.

If you turn right at that junction (formerly Emelda Ave) and walk down the LEFT hand side of the road (island runs down the middle splitting the road in two) you will see and pass several other bars including Mogambos and others. I have as yet not checked out, (sorry) right at the end you will find NIGHTWATCH. This is another "Showgirl" Bar (striptease) There is a cover charge of P150 and the shows do not start until 10pm. There is a nice stage with mirrors and good lighting and sound system

The girls, number about 20, all come on stage and do a dance then they start doing "solo" spots. Hell, there was some real good lookers and a few not so good but, hey this was the BEST "showgirl" bar I had seen in the Philippines outside of one in DAVAO (More on that later)

The solo spots are still a little slow and boring for my tastes but, they were quite good compared as I say to what I've seen there. Some would reveal all, some just topless (at the end of the dance) some just "sexy." At the end, there is a group show which is nice and lively and worth staying on for. Try it out. It was quiet when I was there (maybe 5 customers) but, we were given the personal touch :-). Drinks are reasonably priced, and I had a meal there on the night. (I had company with me and our bill was around P1000 ) RATED 3

6. PAPILION

On the small side situated on the left as you walk up P.Burgos St before you get to the cross roads. The girls were O.K. several "freelancers" with a VIP room. Got severely fondled in here and was offered services not on the menu within five minutes of entering the place. I politely refused of course :-). RATED 7

7. BOTTOMS

Went in several times. There was some really good looking girls in here. The bar is large with a large stage that runs through the middle. Nice costumes and pretty good atmosphere with some of the girls. However never that many customers in there which was surprising. This place has potential to be a good bar. Was closed down in March for a short period after the police set up a dancer and then raided the place -- back in business now. RATED 5

8.IVORY'S

Ivory's is opposite Ritzys on the other side of the cross roads (Emelda Ave). It has TWO bars -- IVORY'S and IVORY'S JUNGLE BAR. The later has a jungle theme (surprisingly :-). Both were on the small but intimate side but, fairly entertaining the night we were there. Lot's of friendly girls in the Jungle. RATED 6

9. MOGAMBO

Situated opposite Ivory's. The girls here can make you feel welcome or pressured depending on your mood. Nice little bar with a good atmosphere. RATED 9

10.DIMPLES

Another nice little cozy bar with some very friendly girls. Music was a little to loud for my liking and made conversation difficult. Worth another visit next time -- after they have found the volume control. RATED 10

11. RASCALS

Can be brilliant, I had a great night in there some while ago, but it was not as good this last trip. May have been an "off" night though. RATED 11

12. FRIDAYS

Alas, still have not managed to get to this one in Makati. It may well be worth a look and I will try to put it on my list of "must see's" next time. RATED ?

13. PLAYHOUSE (Bar/Restaurant/pool)

Playhouse now offers live original rock music from Manila's best acts, five nights a week. Weekends from 10pm -5am. The owners idea, was to create a real western style rock n' roll pub in the centre of Makati district (P.Burgos St)but, with the best "original" bands in the Country. The audience growth since opening and getting the "word" out, has proved to be the right move. Playhouse is now the hip gig in town and a mighty addition to the already exciting P Burgos/Kalayaan St, fun scene. RATED ?

14. FOXY'S

There is now a new club on the block in Kalayaan St, Foxy's. This club takes in everything that has been done in Ermita, Burgos, and Angeles and does it better and does it NOW. A mezzanine floor looks down at a two tiered stage that hosts a plethoria of stunning and sexy dancers.

Several special shows each night by some of the most exotic dancers in the Philippines gives the club a very original flavour. The dress and standard of the girls is in keeping with the standard already set by their sister club RITZY'S (Good recommendation in itself ), also does the hot towel and massage in the Comfort room but, in adition has a sushi bar upstairs surrounded by super comfortable lounges and intimate setting's. Foxy's is set to give Jools a serious run for it's money as far as the No1 spot is concerned (or so I'm told). RATED ?

15. HIGH HEELS

Another Go-go bar just past Jools and down a side street on the left, very much like all the others up and down P.Burgos Street. RATED 12.

CONCLUSION ON MAKATI

Makati really is expensive and a "ONE NIGHT" bar hopping sort of a place. The big plus is that the women really are QUALITY and may even be worth the extra expense. It is also a place where the Pasay Girls are more than happy to go along with you bar hopping which can work out cheaper than buying all those ladies drinks :-). On one visit I bumped into two bar owners and their girlfriends in a snack bar -- small place the Philippines!

What's a nice guy suppose to do?? A Tsm member report!
(edited)

All this was leading to my experiment. I decided to see how many girls I could pick up in the Malls. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Seriously, I saw lots of good looking women working in Landmark, Glorietta Mall and SM (which probably stands for SHOE Mark). I found out that most of the counter help and store floor help make somewhere around 1500 P per month starting. That is around $US 40/month. Unbelievable! So I went around and found ones that were cute, didn't need too much dental surgery and looked like she would be interested in going out on the town. I must have spent three hours wandering around shopping and trying to meet a specific girl or two. Amazing how interested in Ladies dresses one can get when trying to hit on a woman. I got several 100 P bills (these are about US$ 2.70 each right?). When I got around to meeting a specific girl, I made sure none of her workmates were close to know what we were discussing, I would write my Hotel Phone # and Room # on the bill and hand it to her. This left a very favorable impression and I got lots of smiles and winks. From a few failed attempts I did noticed that one or two might have been interested in meeting later, but she didn't want to be seen as agreeing to anything in front of her workmates. I had far more success when I was able to get them alone, tell them how pretty they were and I would love to take her out if she could show me where all the great spots were in Manila. I had a 75% success ratio. When I got back to the hotel about 6:30 p.m., I had 9 phone messages of about 12 girls I singled out. The experiment worked. Guys, IF YOU HAVE TIME try this in Makati. It works There are lots of Filipinas that have wonderful hearts and just want to have fun. At about 7:15 p.m. I get a call from one who is down stairs in the lobby with a friend. I went down and these two gals were dressed to kill and looked like they were ready to seriously party. Bottom line is that these gals like to dance, dance, dance and just have fun. I had a great time and was worn out by mid-night. One of them split as we headed back to the Shangri La since Sunday was Easter and she had to get up early. The other one was wanting to stay the night.. It was like I was insulting her by not wanting to take her to bed. Go Figure???? This was the first time I have been made to feel guilty for not wanting sex. I had flash backs of trying the same thing on a high school date a long time ago. What is wrong with this picture? As things turned out I couldn't let a beautiful women sit there a pout with such a dejected face. Is this an act of mercy????? This gal was simply wanting someone to love her. It is apparent that there are lots of women like this all over Manila. Not bar girls or dancers, but women looking for fun and romance.

OTHER OPTIONS :-)

Okay, your tired of the disco go/go bars, the loud music, the late nights and the greedy girls. You don't want to spend hours upon hours carousing the local shopping centers for Miss Perfect, you just want a nice companion for the night without the hassles -- what to do?

Well, there are small bars (camouflaged as restaurants) scattered all over Manila that open at 2.00 p.m. and allow you to barfine for under 1500 pesos. My favorite place is called "Lady Boss" and is located a block back from Roxas Blvd., on U.N. Ave. (across from the Bayview Hotel). First block up and a quick left and you're there. Try to avoid the touts bringing you in and you'll have some negotiating room. Inside you find a small bar with 20 to 30 ladies -- all waiting for your smile. In all honesty, the nicest (but simple, no fancy make-up or clothes) lady I meet in Manila I found here and she stayed three nights -- a real jewel.

If not happy here, just walk up U.N (United Nations Ave.) a little more and a tout will appear from nowhere to show you his favorite (or the one he gets the biggest cut).

Now, to Angeles City and some real fun :-)

There something for everyone in the Philippines :-)

More information ?? Rules for a happy trip :-)

Look at these detailed members reports (warning, adult content) for real experiences in these cities by single male (body or mind) travelers. You must be a Tsm member to access!

1) On the way to the hotel I see lots of clubs open on Roxas. After turning off Roxas I see several streetwalkers near Swagman. Check-in and try to connect to internet with Manila node of IBM network, my internet provider. No luck - now the good news:-). I go to Margaritaville to look for message on bulletin board from other TSM members. None there. I later find out that two of them went to Subic for a few days and will return tomorrow.
2) Armed with a confirmed booking, through J.C. at Margarita Ville for a van ride from Manila airport to Angeles and a reservation at the Oasis, I board my PAL (Plane Always Late - and it was) some 2 hours after the scheduled time. I was somewhat concerned that arriving late I would miss my ride, but those fears were soon lost when I saw a guy holding a sign with my name on as I exited the terminal.
3). My PI trip report --This is a report from a first time traveler to the Philippines! To begin with I would like to thank all the members who gave me advice and answered my questions, I am now sure that the trip would not have been near as good without it. Anyway after being up and on the move for what seemed like forever, we make it to Angeles City! I have to admit this here and now I was really disappointed with what I saw, I was in shock, I had a different mental picture of Paradise but there was nothing I could do about it except give it a chance and hope for the best.
4) Manila bar update -- well I have always liked Vixens on Roxas Blvd. The place has tons of girls and sometimes will bar fine up to 75 of them on a weekend night. It is a no pressure bar as far as the girls are concerned so as a result I have several friends there. The Firehouse Complex further down on EDSA & Harrison has Firehouse, Pitstop, Casino, Cotton Club, Myfair and Esperanza (Karaoke).
5). Land in Manila at 1:00pm for the start of my 12th trip. First through customs and at my hotel by 1:45 in Ermita. I should note that I can no longer recommend this hotel any more. There is 24 hour construction next door for the next 2 1/2 years plus indoor renovation starting at 7:00am. Also the new manager/management thinks quest relations is an American quirk and since this is the Philippines I shouldn't expect that. Next time I'll check out the Corporate Inn. Anyway I'm at Vixens by 7:30pm to watch the girls arrive for the night.
6) Philippines. Spent several days in Manila. Stayed at the Heritage Hotel in Pasay City. Right across the street is the International entertainment complex, at which I enjoyed a few drinks and the company of many gorgeous women at the Firehouse and Cotton Club. Took one outstanding young lady back to my hotel for an outstanding evening. Here is the scope on costs and what to expect -- WOW!!
7) After a relatively uneventful 4 hours touched down in Manila, cleared immigration/customs quickly and managed to locate my driver (I had made car pickup arrangements through Margaritaville, although it ended up being a third-party and neither the Margaritaville or Voodoo driver). None of the advertised drinks in the car, although I doubt I would have wanted them
8) Have spent a fair amount of time in Angeles recently and just want to pass on some observation s... BJ Alley . So what's the deal and Queen Teller??? I went here and ...
9). For starters, I like Manila but I don't know why. Its a dirty, crowded, dangerous town with traffic jams reminiscent of Bangkok. Maybe its the great looking, available women. Only spent a few nights there but here are some thoughts.
10). Before my first Philippines trip last week I had read a lot about Angeles at this site and couldn't decide whether or not to go there. A 1-2 bus ride to a dusty shit hole isn't exactly my idea of a vacation. After posting the question of whether or not to go I took the advise of most responses and visited Angeles. Here is a brief report ...
11). Just back from Angeles. Looks like Rumors has the best girls, but here is a secret I found wondering the streets during the day time. Plus a report on Vegas Hotel.
12).Just when I thought I was hopelessly in love with the Philippines, I got hit with big-time bad news. Looks like one of the enticing Filipinas has made sure I'll remember her for life and also included are my cultural impressions plus visits to Angeles, Baguio, La Union and manila ... read on!
13). Mission Statement defined: My main goal during this trip to the Philippines was to have more fun and Do more things than I did on my last visit, plus meet some of the members I have really come to admire over the last year or so. There are absolutely, some stunningly beautiful women in the bars and clubs as well as the hotels and restaurants. My visual senses were on terminal overload from the Minute I arrived to day we checked out and headed to Angeles. A quick Note for Dr K and any other interested party.

Disclaimer:

This information is provided by Tsm Members and is done in good taste. Although geared for the single male, we feel the information is valuable for all traveling to the tropical paradise called the " Philippines." Tsm is not responsible for actions or procurements taken by this report. As in any travel purchase, research and references make for happy travels. Any additions, modifications or material not appropriate please contact TSM Travel

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