4 days, 7 ways to enjoy MIAS 2018

Looking from the outside, it’s hard to imagine that the World Trade Center in Pasay City can yield up to 36,000 sqm of exhibition space.

But that’s what the 14th edition of the Manila International Auto Show has guaranteed for its tens of thousands of expected visitors for four days (April 5 to 8).

Anything that moves, has wheels, revs, and heightens the excitement will be on display, debuted, sold, or sneak previewed.

Included in MIAS’ exhibit space is about 2,000 sqm for the Truck and Commercial Vehicles Pavilion found just across the WTC main building.

Just when everybody thought that the 2017 MIAS couldn’t be topped in terms of floor space (31,000 sqm), organizers have found a way.

Going by the trend in increased attendance over the past couple of years, WTC and MIAS officers needed to anticipate that there would be more than the 128,000 visitors who packed the venues in 2017. (See chart on next page.)

This year, MIAS organizers have allotted four buildings apart from WTC Main Hall, East Wing Annex Building, and a purpose-built fully air-conditioned tent annex building—all interconnected by walkways constructed just for the event.

With this set up, visitors do not have to go outdoors to pass through to the next exhibit areas.

So, there’s so much to see, in so little time. How do you make the most of the MIAS? Here are 7 useful tips:

1 Come early. You can spot and photograph your fave displays before everyone else does. Otherwise, run the risk of taking pictures with the crowd blocking your view.

Everybody knows that a lot of rare vehicles will make their appearance under the WTC roof during MIAS. This year is no exception.

2 Expect to spend more time on the floor. Apart from the visual feast, your brain cells will be working on overdrive, because it is in MIAS where some of the best onsite purchasing promos are offered.

Apart from that, MIAS is an educational trip of sorts. So, think long and hard before closing the deal. Make sure you’ve covered every square foot before deciding on a purchase.

3 Be aware of your surroundings. You don’t need Jedi-like reflexes, just be mindful of what’s happening in your immediate space.

Just like in any event that draws in crowds, the temptation for a misguided soul to scurry off with your belongings is ever-present.

So, while you’re on the hunt, don’t fall prey yourself to pickpocketers and criminal mentalists. Keep your gadgets and valuables in front of you, and not behind. Don’t leave valuables inside your parked car as well.

4 Be patient for parking. This ties in to tip #1. If you come early, you wouldn’t have any parking problems. Expect the farthest parking slots if you arrive late in the afternoon or evening, especially on the weekend shows.

It’s a hot summer, so you know the fashion drill: wear cool and comfy clothes, and walk-friendly footwear. Umbrellas and sunglasses are a big help, too.

5 Stay hydrated. It’s easy to forget that you haven’t replenished your fluids when you’re so engrossed with what you’re seeing. So, bring drinking water with you as you stroll from one booth to another.

Staying hydrated also prevents you from tiring out easily. A light meatless sandwich could be a perfect snack for your long walks. And be environment-friendly while at it—a thermos you can sling around your shoulder instead of plastic bottled water.

6 Don’t forget the power bank. Your phone’s cameras will be on overdrive, for sure, as you snap every visual treat you come across, which you’ll most likely upload immediately to your social media accounts.

You’ll probably also be on Facebook Live when legendary precision driver Russ Swift works his magic on the WTC loading bay. Be sure your gadget has enough juice to last your visit.

7 Be sure you’ll always look fresh and selfie worthy, because you’ll never know when you’ll bump into your adored celebrity or motoring personality during the show.

You might run into car-loving dignitaries or your favorite politicians, as MIAS has been known to attract numerous VIPs. The who’s who of Philippine entertainment, sports, and politics show up at MIAS every year, and celebrities attend or even perform at the launches of specific vehicles.

In MIAS, it’s not just the cars you’d want yourself to be shown beside with.