If life can be as dreamy as your favorite 2000s rom-com movie, would you want to live in it? We’re facing changes again as the world eases into the new normal and adjusting may be a little tough. Here’s a series of coming up with different ways to cope again. If feeling like the main character’s going to do it, you might as well embrace it! Cue the narrator; here are eight spots around the metro to explore and feel like you’re starring in the movie that is your life:

Ayala Triangle Gardens

Nestled right in the heart of Ayala Avenue, Ayala Triangle Gardens offers an oasis amid the skyscrapers and hubbub of busy corporate workers in Makati. If you’ve experienced working around Ayala, you’ll know how relaxing it is to see or pass by a patch of green after being in the office all day. Other than the famous annual Christmas lights show, the gardens are usually where people work out after office hours, take a break from walking along the avenue, or get a dose of cuteness from its many cats. There are a number of restaurants here too, just in case you want to meet a friend over brunch!

P.S. Bring snacks for the cute tabbies.

P.P.S. That gated corner right beside the Paseo de Roxas underpass exit/entry is a great crying spot. (See you there?)

Salcedo Village, Makati

If you dream of becoming that person who goes to weekend markets to support small local businesses, make friends and discover your next unique find, Salcedo Village will be right up your alley. Got nothing to do on a Saturday morning? Head to Jaime Velasquez Park to experience the Salcedo Community Market, which runs from 7 AM to 2 PM. Salcedo Village is also home to several cafes and restaurants: Toby’s Estate, Habitual Coffee, and Antipodean to name a few! You’ll also find many alfresco restaurants here; take your time walking around with your fave music in the background and you’ll find a spot you’d like.

Legaspi Village, Makati

Here’s to the bunch who loves Sunday mornings and having that full-blown early morning routine. It’s the home of the famous Legaspi Sunday Market that runs from 7:30 AM to 2 PM. Get desserts and pastries, produce, cooked food, native goods, unique finds, and everything in between! You’ll also find various cafes, bars, and restaurants around the village just like in Salcedo. If you want to go cafe hopping, there is plenty to discover, such as Yardstick and Deuces Coffee, which you might be seeing around social media these days.

Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

While there are still debates among netizens about how disconnected this city is from the rest of Taguig, we can’t deny the fact that it’s another spot for some ~main character moments~. A pair of headphones on, your best power suit, and a cup of Starbucks — the usual cliches, but we all fall for it. Just imagine crossing the street in a killer OOTD and not thinking you’re not the main character of your own movie! Of course, dining, shopping, and partying aren’t just what BGC offers; there are parks around the city too. You don’t even have to spend loads of cash for expensive coffee or food. If you’re the type to enjoy people-watching while listening to your favorite tunes, you’ll find plenty of spaces around too.

Sunken Garden, UP Diliman, Quezon City

You might be soothing your broken heart from a potential jowa rejection or a missed opportunity but at least you get to do it somewhere where you can enjoy the fresh air and have people working out or playing sports in the background. Sink into your broken spirits and get your tears on at the Sunken Garden. No one will judge you there.

Intramuros, Manila

Intramuros may be a location you’ve already been to a couple of times already because it’s just a staple for field trips, but it’s a lot different when you pay a visit when it’s not a school requirement. There are plenty of new cafes to visit here too, just like this dreamy rooftop cafe or cafe that has a courtyard inside. If you don’t have plans for Halloween yet, exploring its dungeons might be a fun activity, or try the walking tour where you’ll see the walled city in a different light. Don’t forget to do pagpag after!

National Museum Complex, Manila

For our artsy besties and history buffs, the National Museum Complex in Rizal Park will be right in your alley. You can visit three museums here: the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Fine Arts. Whether you’re going solo or on a date, we can’t deny that these museums offer many spots for the ‘gram too!

Marikina River Park

While we dream of having more parks and open spaces around the metro, Marikina River Park is an ideal place for enjoying a leisurely walk, a picnic, or following its biking trail. There are plenty of recreational activities to do here, or just chill when you need some alone time and think about life. Bring your journal, write down your goals and manifestations, and people-watch!

This article was republished with permission from WindowSeat.ph.