Joanna James
Although not officially indicated, shopping is almost a national pastime in Hong Kong, and there are many ways to shop astutely to secure good deals. For visitors to this glittering city-state, it is also a way to explore the fascinating districts of Hong Kong. Find some useful tips to shop smart in this vibrant city-state.
Hong Kong has two major sales seasons to serve its customers. The summer sale runs from July to September while the winter sale starts in December and runs through to February. Planning your travel to coincide with the appropriate season enables you to secure attractive discounts from the regular price. Shoppers gain higher discounts, especially during Chinese New Year and Christmas.
Street markets and teetering shopping malls abound in Hong Kong selling different kinds of captivating fare. Most of these are in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. The main shopping districts of Kowloon are Mong Kok, Jordan and Tsim Sha Tsui. In Hong Kong Island the main shopping districts are Causeway Bay, Admiralty and Central. Using one of the budget hotels in Wan Chai (on Hong Kong Island) is best as you prepare for the shopping spree. There are many suitable options available, however, the likes of Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong are favoured due to its location in the heart of Hong Kong Island and the many attractive offers extended to guests.
Shoppers are treated to a fine array of products in Hong Kong, from clothing to household items, perfumes and more. The top-selling items are cosmetics, clothing and electronic items. Prices of most items in Hong Kong including these top-selling items are cheaper as goods are free of tax in this state.
Prices of products are marked with the $ sign, this refers to Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) and not US Dollars (USD). Therefore, be mindful of this when you decide to buy. If you are carrying USD, it is approximately 7.75 HKD to 1 USD. So, the amount you pay in USD is lower.
With numerous street markets available in these districts, exploring them provides a chance to pick clothing, souvenirs, accessories and electronics at reasonable prices. Ladies Market, Stanley Market and Temple Street Market are notable ones to get a good selection of items. These are also opportunities to gain insights into the local way of life.
Although prices are fixed at shopping malls and Department Stores, one can bargain at street markets. Skilled visitors gain as much as 20% or more discount from vendors. However, as you haggle, make it a fair deal for the vendor too.
While most shops accept international credit cards like American Express, Visa, JCB and others, it is always better to check the types of credit cards accepted before you make the purchase. Most street stalls only accept cash. Hence be ready with cash when you are visiting the street markets.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
