Celebrating My 29th Birthday at Che’lu: The Longest Running Gay Disco Bar in Manila.

In celebration of my 29th birthday, my friends Eddien, Allan, and Ace (featured in previous vlog episodes) joined me for a memorable night out in Malate, Manila. Initially, we planned a simple celebration at home to give thanks for another year. However, we quickly decided to take our merrymaking to the heart of the gay capital of the Philippines: Malate.

Getting to Malate: Taxi Tips

Before diving into the party, here are some essential tips for hiring a taxi in Manila:

1. Check the Meter: Ensure the meter is activated before the ride starts to avoid overcharging.
2. Starting Fare: The meter should begin at 40 Pesos.
3. Report Issues: Note the cab’s name and number to report any errant drivers to the LTFRB hotline.
4. Mall Taxi Ranks: Mall operators monitor taxi operations closely to prevent drivers from choosing only nearby destinations.

Despite these precautions, we encountered a driver who rerouted us to inflate the fare. Stay vigilant!

Why Che’lu is a Must-Visit.

Located at Maria Orosa Ave (corner Nakpil St.), Che’lu is a popular gay bar, grill, and late-night dance club. As the longest-running gay disco bar in Malate, it has withstood the test of time, even as other establishments closed down.

What to Expect at Che’lu.

Spacious Venue: Che’lu has expanded over the years, now boasting a large space to accommodate more partygoers.

Music and Lights: The DJs at Che’lu perfectly mix music to energize the crowd, catering to various age groups. The sound system is excellent, and the lighting setup includes laser lights, front lights, black lights, and disco balls.

Live Performances: On Saturday nights, enjoy a 30-minute show featuring diverse dance performances, from Las Vegas-style and hip-hop to modern jazz and interpretative dance. The highlight is the girls’ showdown, showcasing impressive splits, rolling, tumbling, and grinding.

Affordable Entrance Fee: For just PHP 300, you get three bottles of local beer. Despite the many guests, the air conditioning keeps the venue comfortably cool, and the service is prompt and friendly.

Our Night at Che’lu

After a simple birthday dinner at home, we quickly dressed up and headed to Malate. Che’lu exceeded our expectations with its lively atmosphere, excellent music, and fantastic performances. It’s not just a bar but a symbol of the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community in Manila.

Conclusion

Celebrating my 29th birthday at Che’lu was an unforgettable experience. If you find yourself in Malate, Manila, Che’lu is a must-visit destination. With its affordable prices, vibrant ambiance, and welcoming crowd, it’s the perfect place to celebrate and create lasting memories.