Shopping in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has become a center of attraction for avid shoppers and it proved to be a one stop shop for fashion freak and style savvy. We may call it a shopper’s paradise for its endless shopping choices. The city has an outstanding range of products that are available in shopping malls, department stores, boutiques and bargain stores. One can go shopping in Hong Kong from morning until late at night. Shopping malls are open and filled with enthusiastic shopaholics.

Travelers from all over the world come here to shop all the exquisite items that are not easily available every where. Hong Kong shopping is one of Hong Kong's prime tourist attractions. For shopping in Hong Kong, shopping hours at most large department stores are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m though some shops may remain open for business until 10 p.m. When out for Hong Kong shopping look for items such as silk, embroidery, jewelry, electronic goods, cameras, jade and carpets which are very popular amongst visitors to the region.

Having a popular international port and enjoying a strategic location, Hong Kong is always abreast with the ever-changing fashion trends. The latest trends are, more often than not, indirectly displayed by the stylish Hong Kong people on the city streets. The region boasts a remarkable range of international department stores offering up-to-the-minute designer styles and off-the-peg fashions. Most of these department stores are strategically located in the same vicinity, thus enabling shoppers to find what they are looking for easily and quickly at a reasonable price.

The one stop for Hong Kong shopping is Tsimshatsui, which is a must and is said shopping is incomplete if one doesn’t visit this place. From famous designer labels at Harbor City and No. 1 Peking Road to great bargains at factory outlets along Granville Road, from quality Hong Kong fashion at Park Lane Shopping visitors can get a wide range of the latest electronic goods along the famous Nathan Road, infact you name it and you can get whatever you need in Tsimshatsui. Late-night shopping in Hong Kong is very common in the city and most shops/markets operate seven days a week.

When you are out for shopping in Hong Kong try bargaining as it is a popular method of shopping here. However, most department stores and retailers do not practice bargaining, but they will often slash their prices during sales to attract customers. Sometimes one's method of payment, such as cash, may even bring about a slight discount. On the other hand, it is especially beneficial to have good bargaining abilities at night markets. Although markets allows you to boast your bargaining skills, it is good to remember that products sold at these markets do not come with proper guarantees, as they are sold at a much cheaper rate than in stores.

Credit Card Payments
Most Hong Kong shops accept credit cards. Check the credit card slip before signing it and remember to take your receipt. Credit card companies and/or banks issuing the cards may charge a currency-exchange fee on overseas purchases.

Compare Prices
Check different shops to compare prices of items you want to buy. Department stores and chain stores also clearly label their products. Smaller shops and street market stalls often do not mark product prices providing a great opportunity to practice your bargaining skills.

Duty-free Prices
All goods, other than alcohol and tobacco, are tax-free. This makes Hong Kong one of the world's most attractive shopping destinations.

Be Aware of Parallel Imports
Parallel imports are items brought into Hong Kong by someone other than the official import agent. While these products can be cheaper, they often offer restricted guarantees or limited after-sales service. Check the product and ask the sales staff before buying.

Know Your Product
Make sure you know what you want in terms of models, features, price, accessories and warranty such as terms and geographical coverage, especially when you buy electronic goods. When you buy Chinese medicine and dried seafood.

Check Your Receipts
You should always get a sales receipt (street stalls sometimes do not provide them). Check to ensure that all details and verbal agreements are fully listed on the sales receipt. Make sure the product details listed match the product you have bought.