OUR DESTINATIONS
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We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
Alternatively, check out some of our holiday offers below.
- Destinations
- Asia
- Philippines
- Manila
- Binondo (Chinatown)
Binondo (Chinatown)
Established in 1594, the city of Manila's enclave of Binondo is
the oldest 'Chinatown' in the world - and remains to this day as
one of the largest, most authentic, and most culturally intriguing
to foreign visitors. Binondo was established by the Spanish at the
end of the 16th century, when they gave some tax-free land that lay
outside the bounds of Manila to (converted) Catholic Chinese
immigrants, along with self-governing privileges. The immigrants,
who hailed mainly from China's Fujian province, soon established a
bustling community - and these days, Binondo is one of modern
Manila's most vibrant areas, constantly buzzing with trade and
activity. Most visitors to Manila visit Chinatown to shop at the
wholesale stores, where everything under the sun may be purchased
(and usually at good prices); or else to sample the wide range of
exotic cuisine. One of Binondo's best features is its converted
movie theatres, which now house top-quality restaurants turning out
traditional Chinese fare.
Information & Facts
Language
The official language of the Philippines is Filipino, but
English is widely spoken. Tagalog is the most predominant of the
many dialects or local languages spoken throughout the
islands.
Money
The currency of the Philippines is the Peso (PHP), which is
divided into 100 centavos. Major credit cards are widely accepted
in the cities and tourist destinations. Banks do not always accept
travellers cheques, but a receipt of purchase is useful. ATMs are
available in the major cities. US dollars are widely accepted in
Manila and other tourist areas and are the easiest currency to
exchange; otherwise Euros and Pounds Sterling can also be exchanged
in banks and hotels. Banks open from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday,
but their ATMs are open 24 hours. It is best to carry pesos when
travelling outside of major centres.
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