Hong Kong, China Hotels and City Guide

Hong Kong - Shopping

As you might expect, Hong Kong is nothing short of a shopper's paradise. Being a major port, there is no shortage of goods being offered throughout the area. Generally speaking the best shopping areas are Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, and you will be pleased to find that prices quite reasonable no matter when you visit. In fact you will probably note that comparable goods are a lot less expensive here than they might be at home.

The most reasonable prices are found on Kowloon - especially in the open air markets. Most retail stores will open at 10:00 a.m. and close about midnight or when the last customers are gone. Don't ever be afraid to haggle a price down, the store owners expect it.

Here are a few suggestions if you are looking for a particular type of item:

• Antiques and convincing reproductions can be found along Hollywood Road in Central.
• If you’re looking for higher end art, opt for Star House in Tsim Sha Tsui.
• It is not recommended that tourists purchase electronics in Hong Kong as there are a lot of scams that take place throughout the region.

Should you decide an open air market is right for you, get ready as there’s a lot t be seen. However, while you are visiting the street markets, take extra precautions to protect your valuables as pickpockets are not uncommon in this area.

Don’t hesitate to put these areas on your list.

In Kowloon visit the Temple Street market for nearly anything you might want to purchase. While in San Kung, make a trip to Seafood Street and you'll be sure to have some of the freshest seafood you've ever encountered. Don't miss out on the Ladies Market in Mong Kok either. Easily reached by MTR this popular destination is not for women only but you will find a huge selection of imposter merchandise everything from clothes and shoes to toys and more.

In Central you won't want to miss The Lanes - Li Yuen Street East and West - two streets that run parallel to each other between Queens Road Central and Des Voeux Road Central. Here you will find a madhouse of open stalls that sell everything from clothing and watches to jewelry and shoes, all inexpensively. They’re open from 10am to 7pm daily.

Tax Refunds

There are almost no taxes in Hong Kong, so tax refunds aren’t really an issue. There is a 3% tax on hotel rooms, and to government does levy a tax on alcohol and cigarettes as well, but everything else is duty free, which makes many shopper very happy.

Hotels in Hong Kong, China