Whenever I visit Binondo, it is a never-ending journey of discovery and a test of self. The place may be a little overwhelming at first. You may find yourself one rainy June walking in an ankle deep charcoal-colored mud, inhaling that signature smell of sewers brought by the garbages in its now clogged but once magnificent canals, the super overcrowded streets especially during the "ber-months" (October, November, December) where you literally have to muscle people to get through the next shop, the hazard and hassle of finding a parking space or commuting during peak season and rush hour, and of course the constant mental battles between you and your anxiety attacks brought by fear of being mugged or falling prey to pickpockets. But, like many people who have fallen in love with Binondo, the secret to appreciating its beauty is to look beyond its rough facade and discover that there is a harmonious order well at play amidst the rowdiness (more like a dance) that a little open-mindedness, preparation and research can unlock. And the reward once we figure them out? ...definitely a unique experience, great value for our hard-earned money, loads of huge blue plastic bags filled with cheap items of almost everything and thanks to a Fil-Chi friend, an affordable food haven of chicken, eggs, teas and dumplings. Having mentioned food, let me show you some of the places our good friend Michael shared with us one Saturday afternoon when we roamed around to eat in the oldest Chinatown in the world.....^_^
