SMDC Air Residences in Makati is a high-end condominium development that doubles as a popular choice for short-term stays, offering a blend of modern “armari” aesthetic and central convenience. Strategically located near the corner of Ayala Avenue and Malugay Street, it serves as a gateway to both the business district and the vibrant local culture of Makati.
Travel Guide and Tips
To make the most of your stay, remember that Air Residences operates as a residential building with individual hosts.
Registration is Mandatory: Ensure you send your government-issued ID to your host at least 24–48 hours before arrival. The administration is strict about guest registration for security.
Pool Access: The signature “infinity-style” pools are a highlight but usually require a fee (typically ₱150–₱300 per person) and may be closed on Mondays for maintenance.
Amenities: Utilize the Air Mall located on the ground floor. It houses a supermarket (Savemore), pharmacies, and a variety of quick-service restaurants, so you never have to leave the building for essentials.
Nearby Attractions
Ayala Triangle Gardens: A 15-minute walk away, this urban park is perfect for morning jogs or seeing the famous light show during the holidays.
Makati Museum: Located in the nearby Poblacion district, it offers a deep dive into the local heritage.
Salcedo Saturday Market: A short stroll into Salcedo Village on weekends provides access to gourmet local food and artisanal crafts.
Greenbelt & Glorietta Malls: The premier shopping and dining hub of the Philippines is roughly 1.5 km away, easily accessible via the Makati elevated walkway system.
Transportation Tips
The Makati Walkway: Use the elevated pedestrian walkway that starts near Dela Rosa Street. It allows you to walk to Greenbelt and Landmark in air-conditioned comfort, avoiding the Manila heat and traffic.
Ride-Hailing: Grab is the most reliable way to get around. Use the designated “Air Residences” lobby as your pick-up point to avoid confusion with the nearby residential towers.
Public Transit: The Gil Puyat (Buendia) LRT station and the MRT-3 Ayala station are the closest rail links, though they are best reached via a short jeepney or taxi ride.
Who the Hotel is Best For
Business Travelers: Its proximity to the RCBC Plaza and multinational offices on Ayala Avenue makes it a top-tier choice for professionals.
Digital Nomads: Most units are equipped with high-speed fiber internet and dedicated workspaces.
Staycationers: The resort-grade pool area and the convenience of an integrated mall cater well to those looking for a “city escape.”
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Location: Walking distance to the heart of the CBD and major hospitals like Makati Med. | Elevator Wait Times: During peak hours (8 AM and 6 PM), the elevators can be quite slow due to high occupancy. |
| Convenience: Integrated mall with a supermarket and laundry services. | Pool Fees: Unlike traditional hotels, the pool usually requires an extra daily fee per guest. |
| Views: High-floor units offer stunning views of the Manila Bay sunset or the Makati skyline. | Strict Security: The check-in process can feel bureaucratic compared to a standard hotel. |
Pricing Observations
Expect to pay between ₱1,900 and ₱3,500 per night for a standard one-bedroom unit in 2026, depending on the view and interior design. Monthly stays often offer significant discounts, bringing the daily rate down by 20–30%. Note that parking is rarely included and typically costs around ₱350 per day.
Local Food and Tourism Tips
Don’t miss the Poblacion area at night. It is the “cool” part of Makati, filled with hidden rooftop bars like Firefly Roofdeck and authentic hole-in-the-wall eateries like El Chupacabra. For a quick local fix, head to Kanto Freestyle Breakfast nearby for affordable, 24/7 Filipino “silog” meals.
First-Person Review
“Staying at Air Residences felt like having a posh apartment in the center of the action. I loved being able to take the elevator down for a late-night snack at the supermarket or a quick caffeine fix at the ground-floor cafes. The room was compact but cleverly designed—the sunset view over the city from the balcony was definitely the highlight. While the elevator wait was a bit annoying during the morning rush, the convenience of the Makati walkway made exploring the city on foot surprisingly easy. It’s much more ‘homey’ than a hotel but keeps that high-end vibe.”