Uncovering One-of-a-Kind Wonders in Manila's Escolta District
Colorful Chaos and Timeless Echoes in Escolta's Heart
Got a hankering for a creative adventure? Head to the ground floor of the First United Building in Manila's most historic neighborhood: Escolta. This art collective is the epicenter of handcrafted trinkets, vintage fashion, photography prints, antiques, and artisanal barbershops - a living, breathing art scene!
Don't forget to stop at the back for some delicious iced drinks at a quaint coffee shop before wandering into Kariton by 1372 Designs - a humble stall with an impressive legacy. With over a decade under its belt, it's become a beacon of Escolta's revival.
Escolta once stood tall as Manila's answer to Fifth Avenue or Paris's Rue de Rivoli. Back then, it was a premier business district, home to the country's first skyscrapers and elevators. But after financial centers moved elsewhere, Escolta found a breath of life through artists, visionaries, and heritage advocates.
Nowadays, three historic buildings - First United, Regina, and Calvo Building - uphold Escolta's past, each housing a mini-museum inside. At the heart of it all is Kariton, run by Mr. Seb de Jesus and his wife, Ruby. Knowledgeable and generous with stories, Seb serves as a fountain of information for anyone passionate about Filipino culture and history.
Hopping Through Time
Stroll through the streets, soaking in the unique atmosphere of Old Manila - there's something enchanting about it. It's like stepping through a portal into a world suspended between time. And if you're looking for a story, this is the perfect setting.
But there's so much more to see in this thriving neighborhood! Start your day in Binondo, where you can explore art materials at 168 Mall or indulge in hopia. For lunch, grab a seat at Togo Antigua, a classic dining spot that's housed our nation's heroes.
After your meal, venture over to HUB: Make Lab in the heart of Escolta. Whether you're in the market for a new piece of art or simply want to chat with artists, this hub's got you covered. Then, wander towards Quiapo and Avenida for some shopping, Church hopping, or just to avoid the infamous "pamparegla" and colored candles with dubious religious meanings.
A Lasting Impression
Escolta isn't just a street - it's a story, a celebration of heritage and culture that resonates through time. Every time I visit, I find new stories to write. The magic of Escolta keeps pulling me back, and I invite you to experience it for yourself. Embrace the chaos, soak up the timeless echoes, and uncover the stories that await you in Manila's hidden gem.
Experience the charm of Escolta's fashion-and-beauty and food-and-drink establishments, such as the artisanal barbershops and the quaint coffee shop offering iced drinks.
Discover the home-and-garden mini-museums housed within the historic First United, Regina, and Calvo Buildings, and immerse yourself in Filipino culture and history at Kariton by 1372 Designs.
Explore Manila's lifestyle scene, from the vibrant streets of Binondo offering art materials and hopia, to HUB: Make Lab, where you can connect with artists, and Quiapo for unique shopping experiences or church visits. A stay in Escolta promises a lasting impression of its timeless echoes and creative adventure.
