We’re staying in Makati, the business district, which isn’t as affected as other parts of the city, and the rest of the Philippines. I am ashamed to admit that this visit is my first to Manila (and the Philippines), en route to a wellness retreat, The Farm at San Benito – less than a two hour drive. Even Filipino friends downplay the capital, claiming the city is far from tourist-friendly, whilst encouraging everyone to prioritise one or two of the gazillion islands.