While staying in Manila it is quite entertaining to go spend some time seeing the Chinese influence on the city. This city in the Philippines has one of the oldest Chinese communities out side of China. Even before the Spaniards came to the area in 1521, there was already a large Chinese population collected in an area now called Binondo. Binondo was once the big hub for big business including many banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions from the United States as well as Britain. Before this business was moved to the Makati area Binondo was the wall street of the Philippines. Now it is a great China Town and because of the big business it still does it is said to have some of the most expensive real estate in the country. Any of the manila hotels you decide to stay at will have information on where to find this China Town.
Another interesting Chinese area to visit while in Manila is the Chinese Cemetery. This is a cemetery that is so unique to the Chinese people. The monuments they build for those that have moved onto the next life are like homes. They are built up with the classic Chinese ornate design and filled with furniture. There are some that even have air conditioning inside. The locals who are still living will come on certain days and bring a feast to share, leaving an empty seat for the departed loved one and share stories and memories.
After a day of exploring the old history of the Chinese people in Manila you may want to find a nice place to eat some local Chinese cuisine. A great Chinese restaurant in Manila, Eng Bee Tin may be a great stop for you. It has some old traditional recipes and delicacies that will have you buying up a bag of goodies to take home. A Makati Chinese Restaurant, Singkit also has some nice items to fill you up.
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