Tropical Metropolis

This image is 100% real and not AI generated. It seems strange to have to make that claim, but this is the reality in which we live. The lines between fact and fiction are increasingly blurred and challenging to discern. The distinction between the artificial and natural objects in this photograph though should be obvious.

This is the view from a room at the historical Peninsula Manila hotel in financial district of Makati, Philippines. It’s a wonderful combination and juxtaposition of modern man-made structures and free-form natural design. Yet each is beautiful in their own way.

The hotel is scheduled to be demolished in 2026. Hopefully, the replacement building will preserve much of the elegance, charm, and beauty of the nearby landscape.

Words and images by Michael J. Hall