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| City Guide - Manila - Shopping | ||
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Shopping Manila mallrats can shop till they drop at a number of international quality shopping centres. The junction of EDSA and Ortigas Avenue in Quezon City is a chief focus, with at least three major malls - Robinson's Galleria, Shangri-La Plaza and the Shoemart (SM) Megamall, with a fourth, Greenhills, just a short distance away. Another Robinson's, at Adriatico Street in Ermita, is right in the prime tourist and entertainment district. Makati has its super-mall in the shape of the Ayala Center, and also boasts the Glorietta Center and the Greenbelt Square Mall. All Manila malls offer designer goods and other thoroughly Western items at a huge discount from their cost back home, and Makati has the reputation of being the most chic. Almost all malls operate from 1000-2000/2100. Manila's native markets are a completely different world and showcase the unique products of the Philippines' many islands and diverse, fragmented cultures. These are the baratillo, a handicraft-hunter's dream. Carved wooden plates, bowls and utensils are popular, as are the creations of the tribal communities in the more secluded areas of the archipelago. Favourite buys include souvenirs made from seashells (such as hanging lamps glazed with shell panels) and butterfly knives, but visitors should remember the environmental and legal issues attached to these. Paintings of remarkably high quality are also offered. Filipino men's shirts (the Barong Tagalog) are another typical item, often adorning photo-calls of visiting dignitaries. Divisoria Market near Ilalim ng Tulay near Quiapo is especially well stocked with handicrafts. Chinatown is one of the most famous markets, specialising particularly in fabrics. Central Market in Santa Cruz is more focused on clothing bargains. Souvenir-hunters not wishing to haggle for the best deals can get good fixed rates from the shop at the Museum of the Pilipino People or the handicrafts sections of major department stores. There is no sales tax in the Philippines. |
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