THE NORTH BANK!

Walking Tour of Escolta and Quiapo and the North Side of the Pasig River

Rizal Avenue and the Escolta was Manila's premier shopping district until the 1970's when the rise of Makati Commercial Center and the construction of the LRT somewhat diminished their distinction. Now part of Manila Mayor Atienza's Urban Renewal Program, the area has been cleaned up and rehabilitated as a pedestrian promenade. Most of its mid-20th century historic charm remains and its still the cheapest place in Manila to buy shoes, hardware, appliances, clothes, sex gadgets, jewelery, pearls, beauty queen tiaras, voodoo potions, flowers, handicrafts, videos, and electronics. More

(taken from Carlos Celdran Blog)