If you look around, you can really find some very good deals on souvenirs and other things. I found a deal on T-shirts; I could get three of them for only $10. I don't remember the name of the stores I went to, but one of them had a bunch of wooden bead door hangings that were hanging from the ceiling so you could see them. When I got home I realised that the door hangings I saw in Chinatown were a much better deal than those I could find locally. They also have a good deal on postcards; then again, most places do. The overall atmosphere of Chinatown is really nice, and it's definitely a good place to get some good pictures to remind you of your trip.

I have never been to China, but I could only imagine this is what it would be like, minus the steep streets. Most of the residents here speak very little English, if any, and they are obviously first or second generation from China, or other Asian countries. All in all, the residents are very friendly if you take the time to get to know them. The area has an equal amount of tourist shops, as it does authentic markets. They sell everything from gorgeous dresses, to traditional Chinese weapons, to medicinal herbs and concoctions. I definitely recommend stopping to eat at one of their many authentic restaurants in the area. The food is top notch, and usually dished out in large portions. Last time I was in Chinatown, I had my haircut. It was a great value at only $7. So, if you need your hair trimmed on your next vacation...

It's almost like you're in another place. But it's so cool, you look up and you can see billboards written in Chinese. It's really a good chance to see what another culture could be like.

It's not as bustling as the one in NYC, but just as interesting and a bit more manageable. Walk up Grant to Broadway, looking in the shops, eating treats, etc. - a great way to spend a morning. Try lunch at the House of Nan King or dinner at Hunan Homes.

The Chinatown is San Francisco is the best one I have found in the Western world. The area is surprisingly clean, and shops are generally well maintained and pleasant to browse in. You could spend hours walking around, looking for bargains and knickknacks. Remember that everything is negotiable, and be prepared to walk away.

Being a fan of fortune cookies (don't ask), I was happy to stop by Golden Gate Company, home of fortune cookies. You get to see how they are made and can taste a few for a small fee ($0.25). It's all good here.