FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Tag: shopping

  • Shopping in The Philippines – A Bargain Hunter’s Guide

    The Philippines is a mecca for bargain hungry shoppers. It doesn’t have the prestigious reputation of shopping capitals like Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Paris, but it that only makes it more affordable for frugal travelers. In this article we’ll tell you where to shop, and how to get the best deals.

    Baclaran is great for bargain shoppers who love to live on the edge. Vendors illegally set up stalls along the sidewalk to sell wares for next to nothing. Where else can you get a pair of jeans and a watch to match it for less than $10? Just keep your eyes peeled for patrolling police vehicles, as you don’t want to get caught in the commotion of a raid!

    There’s a quirky charm to Quiapo. Its stores are almost equally divided between electronics outlets and shops for alternative medicines and remedies! I’m not sure whether its amulets really ward off evil spirits, but they’re a bit of fun. Make sure you get into the spirit of the place and have your fortune read by one of the many mystics!

    Divisoria is all about variety. It has several malls and sidewalk stalls selling all kinds of goods. You can score a complete ensemble including the shoes for around $10! Many of the stalls also offer hefty discounts when you buy in bulk, which is perfect for visitors searching for souvenirs to take home.

    Greenhills Shopping Center in Pasig City is more expensive than the other shopping destinations we’ve mentioned, but it offers the best value for label lovers. It’s worth noting that not everything sold here is the genuine article, but anyone familiar with high fashion should be able to spot the designer fakes. Celebrities love this mall for its big name apparel items, luxury accessories, and cell phones.

    Of course with any foreign country, knowing where to shop is only half the battle. You’ll need to learn how to shop!

    It’s recommended to take public transport to most of these shopping hubs rather than a rental car, as parking spaces are limited. Greenhills is the exception though, as public transport travels here infrequently.

    Pickpockets are common in The Philippines, so it’s important to have your wits about you. Keeping cash close to your body, in a pouch worn under your clothes or even in your bra, is a good way to keep your money safe.

    Wearing modest clothes may help you escape the attentions of would-be thieves, and get the best deals. A simple shirt and some ratty jeans is ideal. Add some comfortable trainers or sandals and leave the jewelry behind. Vendors who think you have money will never offer you their lowest price after all!

    This brings us to our next point. Haggling isn’t just common in The Philippines; it’s expected. The practice can be a bit uncomfortable at first, but you’ll soon get used to it. Aim to receive a discount of around 40% on any item, no matter what its price. This haggling also extends to the pedicabs that might get you and your brand new purchases back to your accommodation.

    piggy bank worldDon’t just jump at the first item that catches your eye. Visiting several different stores will help you get a feel for the local prices and ensure you find the best deals.

    And finally, stay alert. While most locals are friendly and welcoming, some will take advantage of tourists. Keeping your wits about you will ensure you don’t become a victim of crime.

  • Cheap Shopping in Japan at 100 Yen Stores

    If you want your yen to go further in Japan, you shouldn’t miss the country’s 100 Yen shops.

    There are several different 100 Yen store chains in Japan, including Daiso, Watts, Seria, and Cando. Each one offers a hodge-podge of products, all selling for the bargain price of just 100 yen. That’s only a little more than one US cent!

    As you can imagine, we’re not talking about high end goods here, or items of exceptional quality. That old saying that you get what you pay for often holds true. However, the range of apparel, home wares, toys, and stationery is impressive. You’ll find dirt cheap travel essentials, including batteries, toiletries, and snacks. The 100 Yen stores are also great places for stocking up on Hello Kitty and Pokemon goodies and other cheap Japanese souvenirs for friends and coworkers back home!

    Just be aware that your purchases will generally be subject to a consumption tax of around 5%, to be applied at the cash register. But even with this additional cost, the stores’ goods are still bargains!

    Look for 100 Yen stores in Japan’s shopping malls and arcades, and near subway stations.

  • Bargain Clothes Shopping in Melbourne – Cheap Buys in Australia’s Fashion Capital

    Melbourne is considered Australia’s fashion capital, but it’s easy to spend a fortune while shopping for that new season wardrobe on exclusive Chapel Street and the Bourke Street Mall. Travelers on a budget needn’t miss out on the goods though. The Victorian capital has many funky clothing stores just made for frugal travelers.

    Vintage shopping is a great way to save cash and enjoy stylish, timeless looks. American Rag at Southgate has a great selection of second-hand apparel from the 40s and 50s. Accessorize with the store’s hats, gloves, and bags for the finishing touch.

    Best Dressed is another great vintage option, especially for label lovers. The Armdale boutique carries plenty of big names including Prada, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent, all for a fraction of their original prices.

    High end designers and household names come together under the one roof at DFO, which stands for Direct Factory Outlets. You’ll find these malls located at the city’s South Wharf, and in the Melbourne suburbs of Essendon and Cheltenham. If you don’t mind small imperfections or old season stock you can save up to 70% on clothes from leading Australian labels including Charlie Brown, Trent Nathan, and Seafolly.Australia piggy bank

    Kids aren’t forgotten either in Melbourne. Peek A Boo Market and Vinegar and Brown Paper both have a great selection of affordable clothes for babies and toddlers. Many mothers are loathe to invest in designer apparel for their kids, knowing that they’ll grow out of the items before the season ends. The bargain prices at both stores make those big name brands seem a bit more reasonable.

    No matter what you’re in the market for, Melbourne is a great place for indulging in some new clothes without spending a fortune.

  • Shop Up a Storm on Shanghai’s Fuxing Road

    The Chinese city of Shanghai is made for tourists who want to shop ’til they drop.

    Most of them will flock to the well-known shopping strips on Nanjing Road, Yuyuan Shopping City, and Huaihai Road. But you'll find more interesting souvenirs and save some money for the rest of your Shanghai trip if you take the path less traveled and explore the under-appreciated Fuxing Road. Start your shopping trip at the junction of Ulumuqi and Fuxing Roads, and travel west down Fuxing. That might seem daunting in a foreign speaking country, but Shanghai's street signs are translated into English, and they happily give compass directions as well! If you're unsure how to get there, simply hail a taxi and tell the driver you want to visit "Woo-loo-moo-chee loo, foo-shing loo." The word lu, which sounds like loo, is the Mandarin word for road. Make sure to leave at least two to three hours to explore the stores at your leisure. The last thing you want to do is rush down this beautiful leafy part of China! It's easy to miss your first stop, the Skylight Tibetan Gallery, as it's tucked away down a couple of steps from the road. Look out for the distinctive yellow building, which sells gorgeous Tibetan goods including handmade silver, coral, and turquoise jewelry and cotton apparel. You won't be able to bargain here but the prices are relatively affordable, particularly for the quality of the merchandise. Then cross the road to visit Shanghai Trio's workshop on Lane #37. Here you'll find traditional Chinese textiles including purses, duvet covers, and clothes. Again there's no bargaining, but older lines are often discounted. Everyone loves to take home a T-shirt from their travels, and Urban Tribe is a great place to find one. Travel a few minutes down Fuxing Road to find the store which features hand-dyed cotton tees alongside photos of Asian landscapes, unique silver jewelry, and quirky pottery. Recharge your batteries with a cup of Chinese tea in the garden at the store's rear.Global Travel Image Keep walking west on Fuxing Road to find SQ Décor. It's a small store with plenty of attitude known for its modern interpretations of traditional Chinese crafts. Think brightly colored porcelain, funky glassware, and even the Chinese ancestor painting printed on throw-pillow cases! Turn left and you'll come to your final destination, Le Passage Fuxing. This revamped art deco building is now home to a couple more shops and the café Ginger. Chowing down on its Chinese take on tapas is a great way to end a busy day of shopping!

  • Tips for Not Breaking The Bank on Spring Break

    March is here, which means students and educators everywhere are anxiously eying the calendar, counting down the days until a much deserved week break.

    By this time, most people have booked their spring break travel plans, either close to home or in a far, far off land with sun and sea. No matter what you do over break, here are some tips for not “breaking the bank” and having to take on a part-time job to pay down your credit card bill from one week of revelry. With a little vigilance, you can have a great time while not spending excessively. 1)   Cook some meals at your rental to save money. If you’re staying somewhere that has a full or partial kitchen, it’s fun and easy to make at least some of your meals there. This will save quite a bit of money over eating out, since food and alcohol costs will be lower and you won’t have to tip servers. If you’re renting a place with several other people, an easy way to do this is to assign each person (or you can work in pairs) to a night when they do the grocery shopping and cook. Making coffee and eating a simple breakfast “at home” in the morning will save you quite a bit of dough as well. 2)   Make wise choices when dining out. If you eat in a restaurant several times, consider spitting appetizers, entrées or desserts to save money. Keep in mind that it is typically less expensive to split a bottle of wine than to order individual glasses. Also, do a bit of research on various restaurants/bars in the area before deciding where to eat/drink. Nothing’s worse than throwing away your hard-earned cash on bad or even mediocre food and drink. [caption id="attachment_5339" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Following some basic guidelines will help you avoid spending excessive amounts of money during your spring break vacation."]spring break photo[/caption] 3)   Take public transportation as frequently as possible. Before you leave, do a bit of research on public transportation options in the city you’ll be visiting. Knowing what the options are will help you avoid giving in to spending a lot of money on cab fare. If you do need to take a cab, make sure you share it with at least one other person (preferably someone you know), so that you can split the fare. 4)   Work your student (or faculty) discount. That’s right, you should bring your student (or faculty) ID with you on vacation. Many international museums, transportation companies and restaurants offer discounts on entrance fees for students and teachers (especially over spring break). Some people I know carry an international student ID, which can easily be acquired at http://www.istc.org/. 5)   Take a moment to think before making a purchase. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve purchased something (or several things) on vacation simply because I was on vacation. I lived to regret these purchases because a) they were overpriced and b) I never used them again after my vacation was over. Avoid buying souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, etc. “in the heat of the moment,” and definitely exercise caution when shopping under the influence! Before making a purchase, now I always ask myself 3 questions “Would I buy this if I weren’t on vacation?” “Is the price reasonable?” “Is this really something special that I will use and enjoy in the future?” If the answer to any of these is no, I keep on walking. Note on VAT: If you are traveling in Europe and purchase something expensive (over 100 euros), it’s worth it to have the VAT (value-added tax) refunded. European VAT rates hover around 20% and foreigners do not have to pay it. It’s not worth getting reimbursed for small purchases, but getting the VAT back on “big ticket” items definitely pays off. Ask the vendor for an itemized receipt and a VAT form (they’ll know what you’re talking about). VAT can be recuperated at the airport or via mail after you return (though it’s easier to do it at the airport before you leave). 6)   Enjoy the people you’re traveling with and the experiences you are having. If I’m truly having a good time with the people I’m traveling with and experiencing wonderful things, I end up spending less money. Why? Because I’m living fully in the moment and enjoying the experience instead of searching for ways to enhance it through purchases.

  • Counterfeit Shopping in Asia – Where To Buy Cheap Designer Fakes

    We all know that counterfeit goods are bad, but those affordable handbag copies and super-cheap pirated DVDs hawked in Asian marketplaces are mighty tempting.

    While we'd never encourage loading up your suitcase with these faux products, if you can't help yourself we suggest frequenting the following cheap and cheerful shopping centers. Thailand is the king of the counterfeiters, with most of them doing a roaring trade in Bangkok. The latest bootlegged albums and even fake IDs are available on Khao Sarn Road. Factory seconds and other cheap gadgets are sold at Pantip Plaza. Quality does vary, and you won't get any of those shiny warranties, but you might just find a bargain. Just make sure that your preferred language is switched from Thai to English before you depart with your new toys. If your needs are less specific, then the Chatuchak Weekend Market is ideal. It's the world's largest market, selling everything from live chickens to handicrafts. You might spot Coach and Gucci logos on the accessories, but if they're sold here don’t expect authenticity. If Thailand's capital is a little hectic for you, then enjoy life at a slightly slower pace at Chiang Mai. The city is famous for more than its elephant nature park; its night bazaar has a diverse array of goodies including many impressive designer copies. Shop from sunset each night for these treats, but be prepared to haggle. Prices typically start higher than they do in Bangkok, so you'll need to do some work to get a bargain. Hong Kong loves to shop for fine designer goods, but if you want them you'll need to frequent the country's malls. For the same looks at much cheaper prices, the markets are your best bets. The Ladies Market in Hong Kong is great for a girl's night out, with vendors selling handbags, apparel, and other items targeted at fashion-forward females. While you're spending up, your other half can busy himself at Mongkok Computer Shopping Center around the corner, or the tech-focused Sai Yeung Choi Street South located one street over. The underperforming dong allows most Western travelers to live the high life in Vietnam, which makes it a great shopping destination. For the best bargains head to Ben Thanh Market, just outside Ho Chi Minh city. I'm not sure any of the Nike shoes, Ray-Bans sunglasses, and Tag watches are genuine, but they certainly look it. The dollar DVDs are also a big attraction for movie buffs. But before purchasing designer replicas and counterfeit goods, it's important to remember that you get what you pay for. Often that's watches that will turn your wrists green, sunglasses that won't protect your eyes, films that are barely watchable, and apparel that will fall apart quickly. It could also land you a nasty fine when you return home, so make sure you research your own country's rules on counterfeit goods before shopping up a storm.

  • Affordable Tailored Suits in Asia – Fine Fashion for Less

    A tailored suit is one of life’s luxuries that those of us on a budget can rarely experience. But if you’re planning a trip to Asia, there’s no better time to indulge.

    Tailors in cities around the continent can create fully lined suits in your choice of fabric for a fraction of the price you'll pay back home. And best of all, they'll do it in as little as a day. Despite the quick turnaround, it's advisable to give your tailor as much time as possible. Second or even third fittings may be required for the perfect fit, so it’s best to plan your trip to the tailor early in your vacation. It's also smart to have some idea of the suit you'd like. Bringing photographs from fashion magazines or the internet will help the tailor create your dream garment. Once you're organized, you're ready to find your tailor. Ask your hotel concierge or some friendly locals who they recommend, and seek them out. Make sure you negotiate a fair price up front, including hotel delivery costs, to ensure you're treated justly. Thailand is the home of some of the world's finest silks, and in Bangkok it comes at a relatively affordable price. Rajawongse Clothier is one of the city's best, with more than 30 years experience in the business. Father and son owners Jesse and Victor have even made suits for American presidents George Bush and his son George W. Bush!tailored suit photo When in Vietnam, forget the bustling shopping districts of Hanoi and the action packed Vietnamese markets. Instead travel to the casual coastal town of Hoi An, where tailors will handcraft suits and a wardrobe to wear with it! Master craftsman will make dresses, shoes, and even handbags. Yaly Couture is regarded as one of the town's best tailors for its high quality garments and fast, friendly service. Staff will even keep your measurements on file in case you want to order something else once you arrive home. Custom suits in Hong Kong are a bit more expensive than in other Asian centers, but they're still a fraction of the cost you'll pay on the High Street back home. There's also plenty of choice with many tailors of distinction. Bill Clinton chose Sam's for several suits during his presidency, and he's still a popular choice for travelers today. But don't overlook other tailors in the city. The family-owned Roger Concepts has been another good option for Western travelers as it specializes in suits and shirts for larger men. So why travel to Milan or Paris for fine fashion? You'll find it for far less in Asia!

    [Image Source: Teodora Vlaicu/Stock.Xchng]

  • City Life at a Slower Pace in Hoi An, Vietnam

    Vietnam is a country of extremes, with bustling cities and quiet rural villages. Somewhere in the middle you’ll find Hoi An, a small city on Vietnam’s south central coast which enjoys the best of both worlds.

    Hoi An is the place to come if you want to experience cosmopolitan Vietnam without the traffic or the crowds. With relatively few cars on the roads, pedestrians rule here. It’s becoming increasingly popular with tourists, especially backpackers who flock to the city for its inexpensive dining and interesting array of shops. Hoi An was a major international seaport in the 16th and 17th century, and these foreign influences are still apparent today. Hoi An is a cultural melting pot, with the flavors of France, The Netherlands, Spain, China, and Japan informing the city's food, architecture and culture. The streets are lined with stores peddling arts and crafts, silver jewelry, and made-to-measure clothes and shoes. Such stylish indulgences would cost a small fortune in the West, but the services of tailors and shoemakers here are surprisingly inexpensive.  While these stores cater to the tourist trade, Hoi An's buildings have been largely preserved. This makes walking around the city an exciting experience, even if your wallet is bare. Tourists must purchase a sightseeing pass before entering Hoi An’s Old Town. They cost approximately US$5 and include a pass to a historic house, a landmark, a museum, an assembly hall, and a cultural experience. Visitors can choose which of the local attractions interest them most in each category.
    These tickets are available at various entry points to the area including some of the attractions and Hai Ba Trung Street. While a dress code is not strictly enforced, tourists are advised to dress conservatively when visiting the Old Town. Sleeveless blouses and short skirts are frowned upon, particularly when visiting sites of culture significance. Da Nang is the closest airport to Hoi An. You can catch a connecting flight from major Vietnamese cities including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and international destinations such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Cambodia. A taxi from Da Nang airport to Hoi An costs approximately US$15.

  • Live the Luxurious Life in Hong Kong

    Many Asian locations are about the culture and rich history, but not Hong Kong.

    A visit to this thoroughly modern country is simply an excuse to spoil yourself! Get yourself into holiday mode with a trip to The Oriental Spa at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental. Measuring a whopping 2300 meters square, it's not surprising to hear the spa claims to have more treatments than any other in Asia. There's a lot of hype about this place, but the locals claim it's all worthwhile. Don’t leave without enjoying a foot bath, a warm scrub, and a luxurious four-hand massage. If you want to eke out the spoiling, sign up for the spa's signature treatment, known as the Oriental Harmony. It lasts for 110 minutes, which should be just enough time to get you in the right frame of mind.hong kong cheap Nothing says luxury like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. You can shop for all of these European designer labels in Hong Kong, and as there is no sales tax you'll get them for less than anywhere else in the world. Of course, the big name brands are never cheap, but if you shop in the midyear or pre-Christmas sales you could easily save between 40 and 70%. IFC Mall, Pacific Place, and Harbour City are some of the largest and most popular malls in Hong Kong. But what's the point in pampering yourself if you're staying in a dive? For ultimate luxury, make sure you spend a night or two in The Peninsula. Rooms have environmental controls, plasma screen televisions, and white marble bathrooms. You can enjoy a treatment in the spa, or dine at one of nine restaurants. You probably won't have a lot of cash at the end of all that, but you will return home feeling rejuvenated and refreshed!

  • Shop Up a Storm at Auckland’s Most Fashionable Stores

    When you think fashion destinations you probably think of Paris, Milan, and New York, right? But those big names are so yesterday.

    If you want to return home with a swag of stuff no one else is wearing, consider a fashionable shopping spree in Auckland, New Zealand. Many Kiwi labels are making a name for themselves on the world stage, including Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Zambesi, Trelise Cooper, and NomD. All these fashion houses have a handful of stores in Auckland. You'll find many of them in High Street, O'Connell Street, and Vulcan Lane. But you needn't stick to big names, as New Zealand has a host of up-and-coming designers producing exciting apparel. Rather than trawling the stores, consider visiting Miss Crabb who stocks many of these fledgling fashion labels at her New Zealand store. Look out for quirky pieces from Lonely Hearts, Laurie Foon, Stolen Girlfriend’s Club, Hailwood, and Beth Eller. Miss Crabb's store is on Ponsonby Road, which also has a great selection of big name designer shops and smaller boutiques. If you'd prefer to go vintage, or you can't afford brand-new designer threads, it’s worth taking a stroll down St Kevin's Arcade. Fast and Loose has plenty of retro 80s gear, while Vixen No 8 next door always has some fantastic accessories. No matter what your budget, Auckland makes it easy to find an outfit, and the accessories to match, to turn heads back home.