With the Philippines being such an incredibly beautiful country to explore, people come to Manila to see the heart of it all. A typical city, albeit with its own charm, one might need an escape from the hustle and bustle of it all. When you are tired of the mainstream sights and sounds, there are gems waiting to be explored - that are trendy yet affordable - and allow a different experience that makes you fall in love with the city once again. Get ready to press the reset button!
Flea markets are all the rage. They are a great place to pick up unique finds at a fraction of the price, and a huge treasure trove for those who strive to explore. The Saturday Future Market is an upgraded version of a flea market, simply because of the goods on offer. The abandoned building that was once home to a major department store is what inspired this project. It attracts a hip young crowd with culture and history, and offers an alternative to just roaming the malls. Books, accessories, art, vintage clothing and footwear, handmade items and more are what you can expect to find at the Saturday Market.
Book-lovers beware: This place could suck you in like a tornado! What better place to pass your time than browsing through the spines of countless books, getting lost in their world, and heading back with a stack of them to dive into later? This is less common now that before, which is more reason to revive it. BookFellas boasts titles that are not typically found in other bookshops - which is perfect if you’re looking for something different. The owner’s first venture being a second-hand book hub, this bigger space with a literary collection that is brand new appears to be a promising venue for future book-related events.
The Philippines’ very own Chinatown (doesn’t every country need one?) is not to be missed. Cramped, noisy and authentically Chinese, this street is well-known for its high-carat gold and impressive Chinese restaurants. With food to suit every budget, delicacies like crab and shrimp can be devoured with a wait of just 15 minutes. Modern apothecary stores make themselves known amongst the hardware shops and street vendors peddling their wares. The crawling traffic deters few, and don’t mistake the Spanish-named restaurant for anything but Chinese food. Ongpin Street is a must-visit, if only to experience such authentic culture from a minority in the Philippines.
If you’re tired of the great outdoors, this is the place to be. Capturing the culture of its namesake, it hosts a walk that mimics a street decked in Chinese lanterns, reliving Binondo’s glory days. Whether it’s shopping you need, or simply to relax, Lucky Chinatown Mall indulges its visitors with five floors of world-class dining, entertainment, shopping, and more. Upscale cinemas with the latest technology are a treat for those who wish to take it in. To add to the atmosphere, the mall is also a regular venue for Chinese festivities.
Planning a trip to Philippines? We’ve got you covered with all the information you need on the tropical country!
