[PH Travel] Everyday’s a holiday at Harbor Point

OLONGAPO, Zambales – Ayala Land is known for their modern architecture, which is evident in their malls. That distinct Ayala taste is composed of the visual melody of straight, intersecting angles, cozy bricks, ethereal water fountains, and lush trees.

As per tradition, these elements are all present in their newest endeavor: Harbor Point at Subic Bay.

In recent years, Ayala has been expanding in key growth centers through the development of malls and residential areas. In addition to Anvaya Cove — their pioneer project in Subic — Harbor Point beckons residents as well as tourists to experience the shopping, dining, and recreational experience Subic has been yearning to see.

Taking inspiration from the ship harbors that Subic is historically famous for, the 39,000-sqm mall is a setting conducive to rest and relaxation, where those in search of the Subic shopping experience may also find an immediate and instant holiday.

A mall resort

In a press conference following Harbor Point’s grand launch last April 26, we learned how the details of the design all came from the people. Ayala panelists explained people’s request for a resort-oriented establishment. Using the resort image as a peg, laidback colors and looks as well as natural elements made up the aesthetics of the mall.

The main “attractions” — the Promenade, the Riverwalk, and the Activity Center — all hold true to the theme.

The Activity Center, dubbed as the heart of the mall, literally and figuratively lights up a shopper’s day. It is the brightest part of the mall, receiving light from huge windows designed specifically for the purpose of saving energy. Moreover, it is a place for community-enriching activities such as concerts and mall shows.

Those seeking to enjoy the breeze and cool air need only step onto the Promenade.

Representatives explain the Promenade’s strategic position to fully catch the breeze. Laden with islands of trees and greenery, the wide walkway is a place where shoppers may enjoy food kiosks in the presence of nature.

Perhaps the most unique attraction uncommon to other malls is the River Walk. Still to be completed in the next phase, it will showcase a jogging path along the canal locals refer to as the “river.” Marketed as a place for active recreation and exercise, fitness equipment as well as a playground will be built.

Beside this River Walk stands the Restaurant Row, a walkway that will make tongues water in gastronomic excitement.

A walk through the harbor

The 1st floor reaches out to the fashionistas, containing an array of clothing brands; foreign on one side, local on the other. A total of 50 fashion kiosks are also scattered around the halls.

When asked about social responsibility, Ayala boasts of their one-of-a-kind Tourism Kiosk, an outlet in which indigenous brands may sell their merchandise, free of rent charges. Ayala explains they gain no share from the Kiosk’s profit, claiming it is their way of giving back to the community. Different brands get a chance to use the Tourism Kiosk through shifting.

The 2nd floor is dubbed the IT Zone, featuring IT and telecom stores. Stationed also on this floor is the chapel.

Lastly, the 3rd floor holds the 4 cinemas, one of which is specifically for 3D films. It also has an arcade and a kids’ play place.

(Ayala invited us to their launch. Get a glimpse of Harbor Point and the April 26 event in this exclusive video by RAPPLER)

Harbor Point, like other Ayala malls, is said to have been co-designed by an Australian company. The look and feel of the mall is a combination of Davao’s Abreeza and Pampanga’s Marquee, both developments of the Ayala Land Corporation. – Rappler.com

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