If you're going shopping, the best bet is to head for the markets. Although crowded and noisy, markets have most of what is displayed in department stores and at half the price - as well as being a lot more fun. Be warned though that tourists are often thought of as easy targets for scams, so keep an eye out for incredible stories.

Haggling is the order of the day wherever there is no obvious marked price on goods and as a general rule of thumb, you should start your bid at half the quoted price. Never pay full price on a market - you'll be paying well over the odds. Make sure that you remain good-humoured while bargaining for your wares, though - it really ruins the atmosphere if you get too carried away trying to drive a hard bargain, especially if the amount you're fighting over amounts to only a few coins.

What to buy
The Philippines is known for excellent handicrafts and costume jewellery. The Filipino practice of buying pasalubong, or souvenirs, is deeply ingrained among local travellers, which is why there's a vigorous market for regional products. These include:

Handwoven fabric from Vigan and Davao, although Davao fabric boasts more ethnic designs and elaborate beadwork

Intricate paper lanterns from Pampanga

Costume jewellery from Cebu - most items are exported to Europe although exporters channel choice items to a few market stalls

Silver jewellery and knitted sweaters from Baguio City: known as the country's Summer Capital, Baguio City has a long tradition of making silver filigree work

Carved items from Paete, Laguna, where almost every street corner has a woodcarver and the craft is passed on from generation-to-generation

Opening Hours
In general shops remain open from 09h30-20h00

Tax Refund
VAT in the Philippines is 10%. There is no tourist tax-refund system in operation.