I had a very busy five days in Manila, across the world from my family, and had scant opportunity for souvenir shopping until I got to the airport on my way out of the Philippines. Thankfully, Atin Ito had everything I needed in one compact shop in Terminal 1, selling domestically produced merchandise.
I was traveling with a friend who also had kids at home, and we both went through the whole joint and came away with several gifts for our various children. I got Manila magnets, a toy jeepney, and a rooster figurine, as well as a small fan for my three-year-old, who loves fans. I picked up some coffee for my husband and a bunch of cookies and a box of chocolates for the rest of my family, plus my nanny and housekeeper.
The staff was friendly and efficient, as busy as they were with the many customers in their small shop. I ended up with a whole lot of product, which the cashier bagged for me as neatly as possible. I managed to spend almost $200, but at least that took care of my shopping for the trip.
I was gone for almost two weeks all told, and my five-year-old definitely asked if I had presents the second I walked in the door. Thanks to Atin Ito for supplying the souvenirs from Manila. read more