yes, evem shopping has an art. Or at least you should have that skill in getting the best find, at equally good prices. We all know that Hong Kong is a great place to shop for great, cheap finds. Let me tell you these though, haggling in Hong Kong can give you even cheaper prices. Therefore, bargaining skills are not only necessary but a survival skill, especially for the people with tight budgets.
Tip no. 1 – The Art of Haggling
Haggling in Hong Kong is an art in itself. Therefore, once you find the article you’re looking for, try and appear to not be too interested. Grab a couple more items you like along with the article you really want and ask for their prices. Then, propose a price lower than what you are willing to pay. That way, the seller will give you a price closer to what you had in mind in the first place.
Tip no. 2 – Where are you from?
My friend whose mom was from Hong Kong told her this very clever tip. In markets and small streets, the sellers usually demand for a higher price of goods from the tourists (especially the very obvious ones) as opposed to the locals. So, try and make up a family connection that would make you seem like you’re a local.
Tip no. 3 – SALE!
There are two times in the year when shopping in Hong Kong becomes a really good idea. One is the summer sale in June and July and the other is the Chinese New Year in February or March. If you go to Hong Kong during these dates, you’ll surely get discounts that range from 40% – 80%.
Tip no. 4 – Saying schmaying
In Hong Kong (and most other Asian countries) there’s a belief and a saying that says that they have to sell something to the first potential customer of every day or else their whole day gets really bad for business. It’s something like the saying “the early bird catches the worm”. So go out early and buy away!
