Your One-Stop Guide to Everything APT Manila
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Excitement is building on the Asian Poker Tour (APT) because the massive APT Manila festival is right around the corner, with the first of 109 tournaments shuffling up and dealing on October 28. By the time the curtain comes down at the City of Dreams Manila, the festival will have crowned 109 champions and awarded around $3 million to those finishing in the money places.
You have already feasted your eyes on the bustling schedule and checked out the past APT Manila Main Event champions. Now, it is time to learn everything you need to know about APT Manila, from the festival's venue to where to stay, and where the best places to eat, drink, and be merry are located.
Where Does APT Manila Take Place?
APT Manila takes place in the City of Dreams Manila, a luxury resort spreading over 6.2 hectares in the center of the Baclaran district, Paranaque City, on the picturesque shores of Manila Bay. If you fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you are only a 15-minute taxi ride away from the tournament venue.
APT's official travel partner, DK Poker Tour Bookings, offers a one-way trip for the equivalent of $22. Alternatively, metered taxis are available outside any of the airport's terminals and are clearly marked.
APT suggests downloading the Grab App and using it to book taxis, order food, and more.
Beat the Queues By Preregistering for an APT Card
Everyone must register for an APT Registration Card before they're allowed to compete in any APT tournament. Once you have the card, it can be used on any future APT stop. Why not beat the queues by applying for your card online? Online applications are only available until 12:00 p.m. local time on October 26, so don't put off registering too long!
APT Manila Hotel Recommendations
Manila has more accommodation options than you know what to do with, which is why DK Poker Tour Bookings has come up with a list of its favorites.
You'll find the Hop Inn at Lot 9 Block 5, corner of Bradco Avenue and Cacapagal Boulevard at the Aseana Business Park, N. Abueva Street, Paranaque, 1702 Metro Manila. This three-star hotel is only a ten-minute cab ride from the airport and only a four-minute drive (12-minute walk) from City of Dreams.
Prices start at $65 per night for a room with breakfast if you book via DK Poker Tour Bookings.
The Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay is another three-star option that costs from $85 per night. It is located at Block 2 Lot 15 Aseana City Business Park, Paranaque, 1701 Metro Manila, which is closer to the City of Dreams than the Hop Inn above. It is only a seven-minute walk or three-minute drive from the venue. All rooms here have complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a minibar, and a coffeemaker.
The Seda Manila Bay on Abueva Road, Aseana venue, Aseana City, Paranaque, 1701 Metro Manila is the third option DK Poker Tour Bookings suggests. This is a four-star hotel where prices start at $130 for one night; it is located at a similar distance to the City of Dreams as Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay.
Where to Eat During APT Manila
Manila is a paradise for foodies, with options for every palate. Whether you prefer American BBQ, Chinese, French, or vegetarian, there will be something waiting for you to devour!
Texas Roadhouse on GXJJ+V4V, Ground Floor, S' Maison, Conrad, Metro Manila, is a Texas-themed steakhouse that comes highly recommended. It is open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. seven days per week and is only a 10-minute taxi ride from City of Dreams.
iVegan is a little further afield, around 20 minutes from City of Dreams in a taxi, but the drive is worth it. Head to Unit No. 106 Plaza, 100 VA Rufino, Corner Dela Rosa Street, Legazpi Village in Makati, for some of the best vegan and vegetarian dishes you will ever taste.
Other eateries to check out (use Google to find their addresses) include Dr. Wine Manila, a casual French bistro and wine bar, the iconic Filing Station Bar & Café, which is worth a visit for the 1950s American memorabilia alone, or the Golden Bay Fresh Seafoods Restaurant for some incredible Chinese cuisine.
Entertainment Options Galore
If you want entertaining, keep your diaries free on November 3 from 10:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m. because that is when the APT Players Party takes place. The City of Dreams has some superb entertainment options, including the lively CenterPlay Bar, and the brand-new COD KTV for all you karaoke lovers.
Outside of the venue, Makati and Bonifacio are the two places to head to experience Manila's nightlife.
Agimat at Ugat Foraging Bar and Kitchen is renowned for its cocktails selection, while the Mansion Sports Bar does exactly what it says on the tin.
The Spirits Library has 1930s speakeasy vibes and specializes in cocktails and rare whiskeys. At the same time, the Xylo, Revel, Yes Please, and Clubhouse at the Palace are nightclubs, luxury lounges, a cocktail bar, and funky club all under one roof.
2024 APT Manila Schedule
Hopefully, you'll be deep in tournaments throughout your trip to APT Manila. Events run around the clock, as you can see once you expand the table below. Even if you only have poker on your mind in Manila, leave some time to explore the city and experience everything it has to offer, and make it a poker trip of a lifetime.
Variant is No-Limit Hold'em unless otherwise stated
Approx. conversion rate: US1 = PHP58