Metro Manila. Apart from being the nation's administrative seat of government, this highly progressive metropolis has been a pivotal milestone in my life. This was the first major city I've physically experienced outside my homeland of Cebu.

Having said that, I simply can't ignore this world-class city’s cultural treasure: its rich architecture!

Yes, that's right. Before I even had the tremendous opportunity of venturing outside the country for work, business, and pleasure, Metro Manila was the urban center I truly admired for inspiration in terms of its massive diversity of built environments. And this couldn't be more true during a recent leisure trip I had to this bustling destination where actually walking was the best manner of enjoying the captivating surroundings. There was no other way.

Like most avid travelers who typically book hotels, pension houses, inns, hostels, and similar accommodations during their stay, I decided, for a change, to check-in at a rentable condominium, also known as condotel (condo + hotel), provided by the country's leading mall developers. They had this humongous estate consisting of several condominium units stacked above each other at different floor levels and fused together with a series of imposing skyscrapers that towered above me. On top of that, the entire complex was well-groomed with sophisticated amenities that other sub-standard real estate developments would only hope for.

While strolling around this posh neighborhood, I couldn't control myself looking up, admiring the blue-colored balustrades against off-white backdrops that seamlessly adorned the multi-leveled layers of condominiums arranged in a systematic modern aesthetic. After staring upwards for too long, my neck eventually stiffened thus I had to redirect my focus back to the ground floor.

Gosh, what a relief! From that eye-level perspective, I couldn't distract my undivided gaze at the community’s oversized swimming pools. At first glance, I had the impression that they were artificial lakes, the types of which can be found at luxurious tropical resorts.

And as I walked closer to the poolside to touch the soothing water ripples, the refreshing arrays of lush vegetation, plants, trees, and green foliage couldn't escape my gaze. Amidst the dominating buildings of concrete, glass,and steel, these natural elements definitely completed the experience of that breathtaking scenery.

“With today’s scorching climate, it's absolutely an excellent idea to return here later and plunge in these cool waters. But first I need to investigate the nearby vicinity and see what's happening. A quick walk outside this condo complex would do the trick,” I pondered.

On my way to the outer streets, I had to walk past the main lobby where I also noticed lots of local guests and foreign tourists checking-in at this prestigious accommodation. It was clearly a busy and profitable season for the condo owners and property management.

As I strolled along the urban sidewalks outside, lots of eye-catching buildings caught my curious attention. Ultra modern blocks of residential, commercial, and corporate developments stood high on the left and right sides. Again, I had to look up and scan the spectacular interplay of geometrical forms coalescing to orchestrate a gorgeous architectural exhibition. It was obviously the international style of design at its finest! Thank goodness, my neck didn't stiffen during those moments.

Walking further away from my original location, I happened to stumble upon a radical edifice with plenty of decorative eye-shaped openings as its stunning facade. It was truly an impressive work of architecture and I learned from passing pedestrians that it was the enormous complex of the Mall of Asia Arena, one of the most sought-after architectural landmarks in that urban district.

And as I approached that eccentric-looking building, I noticed its massive name and logo was embossed on its side, confirming what the pedestrian had told me earlier. It clearly was a creative masterpiece with a futuristic architectural theme. Do you think so too?

And last but not the least was the most surprising revelation of all. It was a classical icon of architecture hidden within the proliferation of modern projects. It was called the Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus, The Way, The Truth and The Life, a historic church that undoubtedly portrayed a contrasting design, different from its neighboring landmarks. It appeared to be of a Spanish-inspired design and with its dark beige colors, definitely stood out among the rest.

The day was moving fast and I started to feel uncomfortable due to the extremely humid atmosphere. It was surely time to walk back to the condo complex and swim at their invigorating swimming pool. Care to join me?

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