For travelers who want to buy unique souvenirs and high-quality products at economical prices, the Philippines is truly a heaven. Whether you are visiting the nation for its beautiful beaches, colorful culture, or tasty food, shopping is an experience you should not miss. Among the many treasures that can be gifted or cherished by you from the country are handicrafts and delicacies that are famous worldwide. Shopping in the Philippines is not just for getting things; instead, it builds your relationship with the local culture while helping out Filipino craftsmen and businesses. An ideal way to go along with one of your travel plans is to look for a Philippines Tour Package, which will allow you to explore the best shopping destinations in the country.
For travelers from India, a Philippines Tour Package offers a wonderful opportunity for a smooth shopping experience. Shopping Tour Packages usually include visits to popular shopping hubs such as Greenhills (Manila), Divisoria, and local markets in Cebu. Whether you decide upon handcrafted souvenirs, native delicacies, or luxuries, the Philippines has something for every shopper. This guide discusses the best things to buy in the Philippines; thus, you will know how to make the most of your shopping adventure.
Here are some of the best things to buy in the Philippines.
1. Pearls and Jewellery
The Philippines is famous for its high-quality pearls, especially from Palawan, a province with its pristine waters where pearls are cultivated. South Sea pearls are some of the finest in the world and come in white, gold and black. These pearls are fashioned into necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings. For those who are looking for a luxurious but affordable piece of jewelry, the pearls available from Manila, Cebu and Palawan local market is a good choice. Always buy from trusted sellers to get the real ones.
2. Handwoven Textiles
Filipino handwoven fabrics are beautiful and culturally important. The Ifugao, Ilocano and T’boli tribes have elaborate patterns that they create using techniques which are passed down through generations. The T’nalak made by the T’boli people of abaca fibers is one of the most famous fabrics. Inabel from Ilocos region is yet another notable fabric for its softness and durability. These are the textiles that are used to make clothing, scarves, shawls, table runners and other such things, so they are a great souvenir for those who enjoy fine craftsmanship.
3. Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana Dresses
The Barong Tagalog is the national attire of Filipino men, worn in formal events. It is made of pineapple fiber or jusi fabric, lightweight, breathable, and elegant. It is sophisticated with the intricacies of the embroidery. Among the many keepsakes for women is the Filipiniana dress with its butterfly sleeves and exquisite embroidery, which symbolizes Filipino heritage. You can find these outfits in specialty stores and markets in Manila, particularly in Divisoria and Greenhills.
4. Dried Mangoes and Other Local Snacks
One of the most popular food souvenirs from the Philippines is dried mangoes. Made from the sweetest, chewiest mangoes grown locally, these are among the world’s best. 7D and Cebu Best are highly recommended for their premium quality brands. Delicious snacks include banana chips, pili nuts, and otap (a flaky, sugar coated biscuit from Cebu) besides the dried mangoes. But these treats, great for marketing as gifts to friends and family back home, in my opinion, are more of a winter treat than a holiday treat.
5. Wooden Carvings and Handicrafts
Paete, Laguna is known for Filipino artisans’ wood carving skills. The local craftsmen’s creativity and talent is displayed in hand carved wooden sculptures, figurines, and furniture pieces. Tourists favour items such as religious icons, traditional masks and intricately designed home decoration pieces. The anahaw fan is another unique Filipino handicraft—the handwoven fan made from palm leaves which makes a practical and artistic souvenir.
6. Filipino Coffee and Local Beverages
The Philippines has several locally grown coffee beans for coffee lovers. A strong and bold variety of barako coffee from Batangas for its intense aroma and rich flavor. Benguet coffee is another must try, as it is less bitter and comes from the highlands of the Cordillera region. To those of you who wants something different, have it enter the Lambanog, a traditional Filipino coconut liquor that has strong alcohol content. These beverages are great as gifts for others or for your pleasure to enjoy after the trip.
7. Capiz Shell Products
Filipino home décor and handicrafts use capiz shells commonly. Windowpane oysters, from which these shells come, are known for their translucent and elegant appearance. In fact, they are often made into lamps, candle holders, trays, and wall decorations. These beautiful shell products are the province of Capiz in Visayas region. Capiz shell products are a great choice if you are looking for an exquisite home accessory that shows Filipino artistry.
8. Filipino Spices and Condiments
Filipino cuisine is very flavourful because of the many local spices and condiments. We can bring in traditional Filipino sauces and seasonings to be able to recreate authentic Filipino dishes. Some must-buy items include:
Banana Ketchup – A sweet and tangy alternative to tomato ketchup.
Toyo (Soy Sauce) and Suka (Vinegar) – Used in many Filipino recipes, such as adobo.
Bagoong (Fermented Shrimp Paste) – A key ingredient in many regional dishes.
Pure Cacao Tablets (Tablea) – These are used to make traditional Filipino hot chocolate, tsokolate.
Supermarkets and local markets have these condiments and spices available and they are easy to bring home as a flavourful souvenir.
Conclusion
Indeed, shopping in the Philippines is a pleasure for any tourist who wants to take a piece of this beautiful country back home. From stunning pearls and handicrafts to scrumptious local delicacies, a wonderful variety of products guarantees something for everyone. To further enhance the prospects of a beautiful shopping experience, a Philippines Tour Package will ensure that you will discover the best shopping items without a worry. This trip usually comes with professional guides who will take you to well-trusted shops and markets, ensuring you buy authentic products at the best prices.
For travelers out of India, using a Philippines Tour Package from India would allow the combination of visiting important shopping spots with nature and culture in the Philippines. If planned right, this way, you would enjoy the best things you have ever wanted to buy and all other wonderful sights and hospitality the Philippines has to offer. Whether traveling home with a bagful of gifts for loved ones or gathering unique items for yourself, the shopping experience in the Philippines is quite unforgettable.
Nancy Andy
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