Today’s blog is devoted to shopaholics who are in search for the perfect shopping Mecca. Although some may disagree, Hong Kong just screams shopping galore so there’s no doubt that it should be in your list of top shopping destinations in the world. When you are in Hong Kong, you are always besieged by signs that say, “50% off,” “Removal sale!” “Winter sale,” “Last Day Sale!” Name it, they have it.

For gadgetholics like us

Hong Kong is the first place that comes to mind when we need electronics. It’s common knowledge that gadgets in Hong Kong have the lowest rates because of the 0% sales tax policy. For instance, I got my Macbook Pro 17″ at $500 cheaper than the price in Manila. They also threw in some freebies such as bluetooth mouse, mouse pad, upgraded my memory, and gave me a laptop case. My husband also got a good deal for his Nikon D300 at $400 cheaper than the market rate. My Canon IXUS was also bought for a much lesser price. It was a lot of savings considering all freebies we got!

There are several certified Apple resellers in Hong Kong. For DSLRs and vintage cameras, the best place to go to is David Chan and Co. along Kimberley Road. Mr. Chan is an accomplished photographer and has been in the camera business for more than 40 years and has very knowledgeable sales people. He also buys vintage cameras and has a massive collection of vintage Leica. Note: don’t dare hold any of these cameras without putting on gloves.

David Chan's camera store in Kowloon, HK

The best time to go for shopping

Hong Kong is a place that teems with people especially on the months of July to September where prices go insanely crazy and everybody leaves with a shopping bag in tow. If you plan to get the best deals in Hong Kong, it’s best to go during these months. Here are some stores that are (in my opinion) worth checking out:

Where the elites go

Landmark Atrium – Here, you will surely get your fill of designer clothes, shoes, and purses. It is a popular destination for well-heeled shoppers. This huge upscale shopping center is so accessible, being connected to the local transit station.

Designer handbags for less

Now for those who love all the logos but wouldn’t like to spend an arm and a leg for one handbag, Milan Station should be included in your shopping itinerary. Milan Station offers second-hand designer purses, and is very popular with the ladies and Hong Kong socialites. If you wish to unload some of your designer pieces, you call also sell it to them. I learned about this store through online research and when I finally visited a branch near Tsim Sha Tsui, my jaw dropped! Where on earth can you instantly get a Birkin bag at half the price?! All bags are slightly-used– some of them are still brand new– and are neatly stacked. They even wipe the bags after you touch them to get rid of moist or dirt! Based on customer and local reviews, I found out that Milan Station is a reputable store in terms of selling authentic second-hand bags and their staff have well-trained eyes to spot the fake– they can even give you a crash course on how to spot a fake LV!

Top malls

Hong Kong has a lot of malls, but no visit is complete without going to Times Square, IFC Mall, and Harbour City. The number of stores there are overwhelming– think Burberry, Versace, Escada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., ad infinitum– and if you pay in cash, you might even ask and be given bigger discounts!

The Langham Place Mall is also a must-see. Adjacent to a hotel, it houses a lot of outlet stores, which have great deals most of the time. It is also a stone’s throw away from Mong kok proper, which transforms into a bustling market at night where you can haggle your way into a great buy.

Budget shopping

If you intend to get the best deals, prepare your haggling powers and go to Tsim Sha Tsui where factory outlets abound, and designer shirts could go as low as $3.

If you are on the hunt for Japanese and Korean fashion pieces, you must go to the Argyle Center. Another option is to go to Sino Center and Beverly Island Center.

These are some of the countless shopping malls and stores in Hong Kong that can give you an ultimate shopping experience. Needless to say, you should be more adventurous and discover new places on your own. The best [and the most affordable] shopping finds always come unexpectedly so don’t be afraid to visit every nook and cranny of Hong Kong– you’ll never know what’s in store for you.

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If you are traveling to Hong Kong and would like to stay at plush hotels, we recommend the following:

Shangri-La, Kowloon
Peninsula
InterContinental Hotel

For budget travelers:

Gold Coast Hotel
Park Hotel
Luxe Manor Hotel

Book the most affordable Hong Hong tours anywhere online.