The best fashion and gift stores Manila

We are in the heart of excess: with no less than 600,000^m2 and more than 3,500 stores, this shopping mall is undeniably the largest in the Philippines and one of the largest in Asia! Another paradise, at least for shopping and entertainment lovers. There is also an IMAX cinema, restaurants, massages, beauty salons... All located along the sea, there is a long promenade on the bay of Manila where it is pleasant to stroll and sip a drink at sunset time.

It is a large and popular shopping mall that is a good landmark since it is located in the heart of the tourist district of Ermita, near Rizal Park and Manila Bay. On seven floors, more than a thousand stores, both local and international brands, sit alongside numerous bars and restaurants as well as a bowling alley and a pool table. There is also a large supermarket. Like most malls, it is devoid of charm, but these places are places of life for Filipinos, so it is worth a visit.

Located in the heart of Makati, Greenbelt Mall is a collection of five different malls, numbered 1 to 5 and linked together. Blending its modern structure with the refreshing greenery of the surrounding Greenbelt Park, it covers 25 hectares. It is one of the most upscale shopping malls in the capital and it is true that it has a more peaceful atmosphere than the others. There are all the local and international branded clothing stores as well as many trendy restaurants, bars and cinemas.

It is one of the largest malls in Asia with its 1 km long facade that connects five buildings and is linked to other malls including Shangri-La Plaza Mall. In short, we are still here in the heart of excess. And yet it is a phenomenon that is an integral part of the Philippine culture and more globally Asian: the malls, real places of life for the local population. In this mall, there is a skating rink, nearly 1,000 stores, an IMAX cinema and a host of restaurants including a monumental food court .

Spanning three floors and several spaces, Silahis has been around for almost 60 years and is renowned for its craftsmanship and expertise. This huge store, which looks more like a museum than a supply store, is home to hundreds of handicrafts, rattan furniture, antiques and other trinkets and objects of all kinds from different regions of the archipelago. Treat yourself to a glimpse of Philippine handicrafts when you walk through the door of this grand house.

Hidden in one of the alcoves of the charming San Luis passage in Intramuros, here is a small and charming craft store. The Papier Tole Shop will delight all those who like to rummage and hunt and discover places a little out of time. Do not hesitate to take the time to discuss with the seller who is also an artist. It's a bit like Ali Baba's cave, where you'll find trinkets, books and pretty postcards. One thing is sure, it's a change from the countless shopping centers that dot the city!

Departure time is approaching, and you haven't had time to fill your backpacks with souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones? Then take advantage of your stroll in Intramuros and Fort Santiago to pass by this charming store. Beautiful postcards, tote-bags, fans, other trinkets and local handicrafts, wooden wall decorations, rattan baskets, numerous jewels, traditional clothes... No doubt that you will find your happiness there! All this in a very cute setting and you can even settle down for a coffee.

At Jade, books and maps are available in the Philippines. No second hand books unfortunately, but a good choice of works (not all of the first freshness, it is true) on the Philippines and its inhabitants. 

This store offers a panorama of the best of Philippine handicrafts. Of course, the best thing to do is to buy locally, in the different regions you will visit, but here you have the advantage of choice. And there is plenty of choice! Between the beautiful wicker baskets, the beaded jewelry, the sculptures and objects in abaca, the embroidered fabrics, the kitchen accessories... Everything is of great quality and at reasonable prices.

A small boutique and cultural space nestled in a 400-year-old vaulted room within Fort Santiago. Here, pre-Hispanic indigenous handicrafts, 100% Filipino brands and works of local artists are showcased. You can find traditional handicrafts, hand-stitched ethnic textiles as well as more modern pieces (jewelry, bags...) that could be found in trendy European boutiques. A good address in Intramuros for your souvenir gifts.