Hong Kong, Shopping Capital of Asia

Sooner or later, every dedicated shopping fanatic ends up in Hong Kong. It’s the ultimate destination for anyone with a fistful of credit cards and a desire for designer goods, name-brand baubles and threads, and chic accoutrements at bargain prices. Bring an empty suitcase with you.

 

The Capital City of the World

Hong Kong, one of the special administrative regions of the People’s Republic of China, is a world apart from the mainland, and there’s very little evidence of Communism in this consumer paradise, where you’re likely to see more well-dressed, chauffeured women stepping out of Mercedes-Benz automobiles than anywhere else in the world. If you want it, here’s where you can buy it.
Even if Hong Kong is not your primary destination, it’s worth a side trip. You can get flights there from anywhere in Asia, and there are specially arranged shopping weekends available from most tour companies. There is shopping everywhere you turn, with venues ranging from huge, multi-story megamalls, to high-end antique streets, and cheap bazaars. For the mall aficionado, Times Square Hong Kong, the first big mall in Hong Kong, is the place to start. And it won’t be necessary for men to just sit and wait on their wives; Hong Kong is renowned the world over as having some of the very best tailors outside of Europe. If you’re looking for a custom-made suit, you can have one made for you to your exact specifications, and have it delivered to your hotel—all at a price below what you would pay for something off the rack back home.

Tea Shops and Whatnots

You may want to pack that suitcase with designer clothes, but leave a little room, because there’s a lot more you’ll want to bring home. Pop into one of the many small tea shops that seem to be in almost every block. If you enjoy a good cup of tea, you’ll be delighted with the variety on offer in all of Hong Kong—and you’ll be sure to find a few flavors that you’ve never heard of before. It’s definitely worthwhile to bring home a few boxes. The tea shops are an experience in themselves, the clerks there will be more than happy to tell you about the different varieties, and probably even brew up a few samples for you before you buy. And of course, antique shops are prevalent, and Hong Kong is a great place to pick up some unusual antiques to add your collection.

Great Buys on the Streets

The famous Stanley Market is a good place to start for a few souvenirs, but the real hard core shopping will be found elsewhere. Stanley is mainly oriented towards tourists, but it’s a worthwhile visit, and there are plenty of excellent restaurants that will help make your afternoon more relaxing there. The Mongkok Ladies’ Market will also deliver the goods, with plenty of low-priced knock-offs. Bargaining here is a must. You won’t find elegant restaurants here, but you will enjoy the unique street vendor stalls or dai pai dong, are located, giving you a unique meal of traditional fare at a bargain price.
If you’re not sure where to shop, just walk a block from your hotel, and you’re sure to find somewhere that is offering some rare treasures for you to take back home.