Tara, South? There's a new place to hang out, dine, and shop in Laguna
With busy schedules and traffic to contend with, a trip to the mall can be an easy way to take a break, catch up with friends, or shop. But for those living in the south, some of these shopping and dining destinations have meant traveling to Metro Manila, along with the added cost of transportation or gas and time spent on the road.
That may be less of a concern now with the opening of Ayala Malls Nuvali on Nov. 12. Located in Laguna, the three-level mall brings a mix of familiar Metro Manila brands closer to southies while incorporating open spaces and alfresco areas that let visitors enjoy a little fresh air between shopping and dining stops.
Mariana Zobel de Ayala, SVP and head of leasing and hospitality at Ayala Malls, said the development also responds to the need for third spaces, with open areas and ample seating where visitors can relax and spend time beyond shopping.
"We accept that a shopping mall is a place where you come and make a commercial transaction and buy something. But we talk a lot about how emotion has to resonate as well, and that's why space is important. I think you'll see when you look at this expansion compared to the older buildings, we've got much wider areas, much lighter, much more open," she told the media on Nov. 12.
"It's about creating spaces where you can come and sit and spend a bit of time," she added, noting that they took into consideration the need for rest areas. "We want people to be able to come, stay, relax, and enjoy," she said.
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Foodies no longer have to travel to Metro Manila to try several well-known dining spots. Ayala Malls Nuvali has welcomed restaurants and cafes such as Dillingers, Fat Seed Cafe, Harlan Coffee, Shake Shack, Sichu Malatang, Chagee, The Matcha Tokyo, Coopers, and Wildflour, among others.
Fashion enthusiasts, meanwhile, can browse a mix of local and international labels, including Beauty Bar, Hollister, Maison Margiela, Marks & Spencer, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, REV, and Samsonite.
Those looking for travel essentials and home finds can also drop by American Tourister, The Travel Club, Nitori, Anko, and Remarkable Living.
There's more to do beyond shopping and dining. Visitors can spend time at entertainment hubs such as Fully Booked, Gashapon, Timezone, Roller Fever, and Wii Jump N' Play, which offer activities for different ages and interests.
Younger visitors also have dedicated spaces on the second floor, including Toys "R" Us and Kidsventure, as well as a common play area.
For those looking to upgrade their gadgets, Beyond the Box and Digital Walker are also among the mall's tech stores.
Nuvali lake reopens
Those who want a break from the mall can head to Nuvali Lake, which has reopened for sightseeing, picnics, and boat rides, which is available for P100 per person.
The lake has also undergone rehabilitation, with its signature koi fish set to return, so you can experience the popular feeding experience.
Nearby, the Pangaea: Earth's Living Legacy Museum is scheduled to open on Nov. 13, giving visitors another destination to explore.
The mall is also getting into the holiday spirit with seasonal attractions, including Giftville, which features local food brands, and a go-kart experience. Visitors can also catch the mall's signature water fountain and light show by the lake soon.
Ayala Malls Nuvali is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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