hong kong guide
May 28th, 2006, 06:31 AM
#1
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hong kong guide
My sister and her duaghter will be in Hong Kong in October for a week. They would like to use a guide for a day or two. Does anyone have a guide they recommend?
Thanks!
Thanks!
May 28th, 2006, 05:18 PM
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Agree with above replies. They definitely do not need a guide in Hong Kong . It is an easy and compact place to get around. If they do some research they can go see the places tnat interest THEM. They will love that wonderful city!
May 28th, 2006, 06:25 PM
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I live in Hong Kong and could not agree more that you do NOT need a guide to get around and enjoy the city. English and widely and well spoken, signage is in English, including on the subway and buses (English level of bus drivers is not great, but passengers can help if necessary). Taxis drivers speak English and taxis are very cheap. A week in October is great because the weather is so good. The main tourist sites are in quite compact areas and are mostly walkable, and they can take public transport between them (and the Star Ferry of course), or taxis if they want to save some time. They will have time to take some walks and also get to some of the outlying islands.
They can do some self-guided walking tours put together by the Hong Kong tourist association, take a look at http://www.discoverhongkong.com. The Hong Kong Tourist Association also sponsors a free junk tour every Thursday, check the website. They can also take a paid longer harbour tour on the Star Ferry, go to http://www.starferry.com.hk/new/en/index.asp. I would really urge them to read Jan Morris' wonderful book, "Hong Kong" (old, but still very relevant, IMO), in which she describes her favourite walk, and one of mine, around Lugard and Harlech Roads on the Peak. (My favourite walk is around Severn Road, even better views. This is harder to get to, you can walk uphill or take a taxi.)
Now, notwithstanding my comment above that a guide is not necessary, there is an historian and writer in Hong Kong named Jason Wordie who does give absolutely wonderful walking tours. I have taken several that he has given for the American Women's Association and found him so well informed and interesting. He does do small group tours. These are very heavy on history and are not shopping tours, so if they are not interested in history, his tours are not for them. (If you have ever been to Rome and taken any Context Rome/Scale Reale tours, you would find Jason's tours to be similar.) He is not cheap, but I think would be worth the price if you are interested in the history of Hong Kong and seeing some of the different neighborhoods. You can see some of his walks at tp://www.jasonswalks.com/About_Jason/about_jason.html. He has written several good books about Hong Kong, you can usually find them in Hong Kong book shops.
More than 40% of Hong Kong is actually parkland. There are many good walking paths (flat) and more challenging hiking on both Hong Kong Island and outlying islands, all reachable by public transport. There are several on the Peak itself and many good ones on the "back" side of Hong Kong Island. As they will be here for a week, these are an excellent way to see a different side of Hong Kong than most tourists see. There are many good guidebooks to walking in Hong Kong which you can find in bookshops. You can also take guided walks, take a look at http://www.walkhongkong.com/pages/940968/index.htm. For other info on hiking trials go tohttp://parks.afcd.gov.hk/newparks/eng/hiking/index.htm
There is also an amateur group of hikers and you can join walks for free at http://www.hktrampers.com/Mambo/comp...page/Itemid,1/
If they are interested in shopping, I can print of list of suggested places.
They can do some self-guided walking tours put together by the Hong Kong tourist association, take a look at http://www.discoverhongkong.com. The Hong Kong Tourist Association also sponsors a free junk tour every Thursday, check the website. They can also take a paid longer harbour tour on the Star Ferry, go to http://www.starferry.com.hk/new/en/index.asp. I would really urge them to read Jan Morris' wonderful book, "Hong Kong" (old, but still very relevant, IMO), in which she describes her favourite walk, and one of mine, around Lugard and Harlech Roads on the Peak. (My favourite walk is around Severn Road, even better views. This is harder to get to, you can walk uphill or take a taxi.)
Now, notwithstanding my comment above that a guide is not necessary, there is an historian and writer in Hong Kong named Jason Wordie who does give absolutely wonderful walking tours. I have taken several that he has given for the American Women's Association and found him so well informed and interesting. He does do small group tours. These are very heavy on history and are not shopping tours, so if they are not interested in history, his tours are not for them. (If you have ever been to Rome and taken any Context Rome/Scale Reale tours, you would find Jason's tours to be similar.) He is not cheap, but I think would be worth the price if you are interested in the history of Hong Kong and seeing some of the different neighborhoods. You can see some of his walks at tp://www.jasonswalks.com/About_Jason/about_jason.html. He has written several good books about Hong Kong, you can usually find them in Hong Kong book shops.
More than 40% of Hong Kong is actually parkland. There are many good walking paths (flat) and more challenging hiking on both Hong Kong Island and outlying islands, all reachable by public transport. There are several on the Peak itself and many good ones on the "back" side of Hong Kong Island. As they will be here for a week, these are an excellent way to see a different side of Hong Kong than most tourists see. There are many good guidebooks to walking in Hong Kong which you can find in bookshops. You can also take guided walks, take a look at http://www.walkhongkong.com/pages/940968/index.htm. For other info on hiking trials go tohttp://parks.afcd.gov.hk/newparks/eng/hiking/index.htm
There is also an amateur group of hikers and you can join walks for free at http://www.hktrampers.com/Mambo/comp...page/Itemid,1/
If they are interested in shopping, I can print of list of suggested places.
May 29th, 2006, 04:34 AM
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Cicerone
You certainly know your city.
You mentioned that if you are interested in shopping you may be able to help. Well we are coming to Hong Kong in October ( best time to come you said - it's all good ) and we would like to shop for a good quality bicycle ..... would you know of any good bike shops??? we would be grateful for any help in this area.
You certainly know your city.
You mentioned that if you are interested in shopping you may be able to help. Well we are coming to Hong Kong in October ( best time to come you said - it's all good ) and we would like to shop for a good quality bicycle ..... would you know of any good bike shops??? we would be grateful for any help in this area.
May 29th, 2006, 11:26 PM
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As it happens I have a work-in progress general shopping guide I have been putting together for various visiting relatives friends over the past few months; and I have a friend arriving this evening so I had recently punched this up a bit and sent this to her in preparation for her visit . (As it is raining cats and dogs and the forecast is for the same during her visit we may be shopping more than we would like. . . .)
If you can tell me whether they are interested in a particular item, esp jewelry, rugs or large items like furniture, I can recommend specific shops.
First, some shopping myths that need to be dispelled and some suggestions:
1. Unless you are from Europe, electronics are NOT cheaper in Hong Kong. I would not waste time looking. You may be able to find slightly newer models here, but be very careful of being ripped off by paying too much for new models that have not hit US stores and so you don't know what prices they will bear. This is especially so along the infamous Nathan Road area in Kowloon. In any event, do some comparison shopping at home first so you know what relative prices are and you can recognize a good price. Bargain hard, pay cash as the shop keeper will be reluctant to lower his price if you are paying using a credit card. Be sure the item is dual voltage if you will need it to work on US current, including any batter recharger. Be sure the warranty is international, that is, you can get it repaired under warranty in the US. Some warranties are only good in the country or region in which the goods are sold (This is a real problem in Dubai in my experience). Be sure to read the warranty. I personally would not waste time looking for electronics in Hong Kong.
2. Other than watches, you will NOT find that designer clothing, handbags, etc, if purchased in the brand's store, i.e., a Prada bag purchased in the Prada store, are cheaper than in the US or Europe. In mainland China, these items are in fact more expensive than in the US or Europe, as PRC nationals will pay a premium for the brand. (I see a little of that price creep here as well but generally prices seem to compare to the US and Europe.) There is no sales tax in Hong Kong (other than on liquor and some items which tourists generally don't buy like cars) so that may be attractive if you are from a high-tax state or from Canada, and as the exchange rate is pegged to the US dollar the prices are constant and so you will not generally "lose" money if you buy an item here, but again, I don't think it is worth the time and effort buying full-price designer items here. (Discounted designer items and second hand goods can be found, these are discussed below; they are worth looking for if that is an interest.)
3. Watches are generally about 25% cheaper, esp the high-end brands like Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, etc. Do some comparison shopping before you leave home so you have an idea of price. I would buy only from long-term established and reliable shops in the Central area or the Pacific Place or IFC Malls. I can recommend Artland Watch Company at New Henry House, Ice House Street in Central. Make sure you get an international warranty.
3. Fake handbags and DVDs can be found. You will get what you pay for, which is not very much for not very much, especially with regard to handbags, and I see tourists really paying far to much for very pool quality bags that I would personally be embarrassed to carry around (it's the handles and the hardware, give them 6 months and you will see). The fake watches are also so clearly fake I don't know how an adult can actually wear them, the moment you show them to someone who has a real one they would instantly know, and if they are bought for a joke, I guess I just don't get it. I give a little info on that below, but generally I know very little about it and don't encourage it. First of all, it is illegal. Secondly, I don't believe in ripping off people who have worked hard to develop a brand, a quality product, an art form, etc and are not getting paid for the benefit of their hard work.
4. You should consider getting the Suzy Gershmann book called "Born to Shop Hong Kong" if you really are into serious shopping. There are several editions, including one which covers Guangzhou and Shanghai. You may be able to borrow it from somebody or see if your library has it, although you need an edition that is not more than a year old, as things are getting torn down pretty quickly here.
5. What I find so amazing about Hong Kong shopping is that you can find virtually any item made anywhere in the world. You may have to dig around a little bit, or you may see things right out there that will surprise you. There is a Hang Ten clothing shop in downtown Central. I have not seen that clothing line since like the early 1970's and did not think they were even in business anymore; and certainly Hong Kong is not a surfing culture. One of my favorite cosmetic lines is Jurlique. They have 8 outlets here, and when I lived in Switzerland with almost the same size population, I had to go to Geneva to find it. So, if there is a favorite item you want to stock up on or have trouble finding at home, this is the place to look for it.
6. The other thing I like about Hong Kong shopping are the unknown designers. The "Soho" area on Hong Kong Island is just a lot of fun to walk around in and poke into the small boutiques there to see what is new. There are all kinds of little shops there selling shoes, clothes, handbags, house wares, art (some very pricey, some not). To help things there are lots of great cafes and restaurants in the neighborhood as well. The main streets to browse are Staunton, Elgin, Peel, and Old Bailey; although Hollywood Road is excellent for antiques and expensive artwork, and then you can go along Hollywood Road to the Man Mo temple and the Cat Street area for cheaper antiques and kitsch stuff like little red books of Mao's sayings. You can take the free escalator up from Central to this area and then just wander around. The Luxe Guide to Hong Kong gives some good tips to this area, IMO.
7. I have found that while designer clothing at outlet prices is hard to find and getting rarer, you can still find get good quality hand-made items here at good prices. You can have suits made of course, not cheaply anymore but very well made. You can have bags and shoes made, see below. There is a place in the New Territories where you can design your own china as well as buy their pre-made patterns. These are at a good price (albeit I doubt you want to lug this around on a vacation or pay to ship it to the US). There are several outlets in the Aberdeen area for hand-made blue and white porcelain jars, vases etc. There is a guy who makes beautiful silk lampshades starting at about US$45. Rugs are a good buy here.
8. Jewelry, rugs and furniture are a good buy here; but you do have to know your prices and consider shipping costs and duty. Shipping costs for a piece of furniture is generally about 50% of the price of the piece.
9. Stores are generally open every day, from about 10 – 7 pm, including most public holidays EXCEPT for 2-3 days over Chinese New Year which is celebrated at varying dates between January and February each year. Some places like department stores and malls are open later, until 8:30 or 9 pm, you can call to confirm. Note that in Hong Kong parlance, a shop on the "first floor" is UPSTAIRS one flight, it is not on the ground or street level, that is called the "ground floor" or G/F level.
Favourite Shops for Gifts, Goods and Souvenirs
1. Chinese Arts and Crafts Department Store
Star House, 3 Salisbury Rd. (Tsimshatsui)
(at the Star Ferry Pier)
230 Pacific Place
Tel: 2827-6667
This is a fixed-price shop with just a myriad of goods on offer from bolts of cloth to tablecloths to clothing to porcelain to all kinds of souvenirs to wall hangings to jewelry. The main outlet is right at the Star Ferry pier in Kowloon. It is a good place to do shopping for gifts (up on the second floor),and to get an idea of prices for when you go to other places where bargaining is the rule but you will see many of the same goods. They will ship as well. They have smaller shops in Pacific Place (mainly jewelry and some clothing) and also at the airport.
2. Shanghai Tang
Basement and First Floor
Pedder Building
12 Pedder Street
http://www.shanghaitang.com/shanghaitang/index.jsp
(Also outlets in Pacific Place Mall and the Peninsula Hotel)
This has lots of interesting stuff (think hot pink silk Mao jackets) and good gift items (ginger spice candles, Mao watches), but not at a discount. Fixed price. The main store is in the great Pedder Building (see below). The other outlets are smaller but conveniently located if you are in the area. They also have an outlet at the airport.
3. Blanc de Chine
2nd Floor
Pedder Building
12 Pedder Street
Decidedly non-discount silk clothing, bed linens and gift items. They have cashmere and wool clothing as well. Beautifully designed and made. Worth a look at the very least.
4. Hong Kong Museum of Art Museum Shop
First Floor
10 Salisbury Road
Kowloon Hong Kong
Tel: 2180-9871
This is a great museum store with all kinds of books, artwork (esp wall scrolls) cards, Chinese music CDs, and all kinds of other art-related stuff at good fixed prices. I like to buy the Chinese music CDs because they are so cheap and its a good way to learn about classical Chinese music. They have interesting cards and artwork as well. It is right on the waterfront in Kowloon where you will undoubtedly be going to anyway, so is a good place to stop in, esp as it is air conditioned. The museum itself is excellent and can be "done" in an hour or two and admission is only HK$10 (about US$1.25, admission is free on Wednesdays), so it is a few hours well spent, and great harbour views to boot. For info on the museum and its exhibits, go to http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Art...ro/eintro.html. You do not have to pay admission to get into the shop, as there is an separate outside entrance.
5. Pearls & Cashmere
http://www.pearlsandcashmere.com
Shops in the Peninsula Hotel, Times Square Mall and other locations
Cashmere is a good buy in Hong Kong, but you have to be very careful of fakes. I would do a little comparison shopping at home to see prices in your area and to get an idea of quality and feel. The above shop is very reputable and has been in business for many years. Their main shop in the Mandarin Hotel is currently closed as the hotel is being renovated, but their Peninsula Hotel outlet has a lot of merchandise. Fixed price, but they often run sales.
6. Wattis Fine Art
21 Hollywood Road
2nd floor
tel: 2524-5302
http://www.wattis.com.hk/
Picture This
Suite 603B, 6/F
9 Queen's Road
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2525-2820
http://www.picturethiscollection.com...current/page1/
Both shops carry antique maps and prints from South East Asia and elsewhere. Picture This has Hong Kong movie and travel posters, and also usually has rare original old Hong Kong photos which are different from the typical reproduction old photos you see for sale in the tourist shops. Both welcome browsers and are helpful and knowledgeable. Picture This is associated with Altfield Gallery, a very well-known and reputable antique dealer in Hong Kong. The entrance to Wattis is actually on Old Bailey Street, and it is easy to stop in as part of walk in the Hollywood Road or Soho area. Picture This is in an office building next to the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank building and not far from the Star Ferry.
7. Flea & Cents
First Floor
34-38 Queen's Road East
Wanchai
Tel: (852)2528 0808
I think I was literally their very first customer when they opened their original shop on Wing Tung Street in 1997. The owners are a couple in their early 30s (they were like 12 years old when they first opened...) and they have very eclectic taste. There is some 1970s retro stuff, toys, house wares and small items which make good gifts, all kinds of fun and serious stuff. Worth a stop in on the way to the evening food markets further along Queen's Road which is, IMO, the best people-watching in Hong Kong (also on Saturdays and Sundays).
8. The Birdcage
22 Floor
Horizon Plaza
2 Li Wing Street
Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong Island
(near Aberdeen)
Tel: (852) 2580-5822
Beautiful antique and old furniture sourced mainly from China, he has some smaller pieces and also, as the name implies, birdcages. He will hunt down particular pieces for you. Clarence is very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. His prices are much less than the Hollywood Road area and less than some of the other shops in the Horizon Plaza building.
Shopping Areas
1. Pedder Building
12 Pedder Street
(about 2-3 blocks from the Star Ferry
next to the Central MTR stop)
Central, Hong Kong
This is very conveniently right in Central and is worth a look, esp for discounts on Chanel suits and other designer goods, although sizes tend to be small. There are also several cashmere shops, but be careful because some of the cashmere is fake. There are several shoe stores and at my last visit, a baby store. There wonderful Blanc de Chine is here, as is Shanghai Tang.
2. Stanley Market
This would be #3 on my list of things to tell tourists to do, right after the Star Ferry and the Peak Tram. This is a half day to a full day outing to the "back side" of Hong Kong Island and half the fun is getting there via the double-decker bus from Central. Stanley is on the water and has a outdoor souk-type good market which sells all kinds of souvenirs, table cloths and bed linens, Christmas decorations, artwork, athletic shoes, suitcases, clothing, and sundry items. I am not sure how much designer discount stuff you will find here other than copy bags and maybe T shirts, however, it is an extremely pleasant way to spend the day. I would strongly recco including a stop for lunch or dinner at any one of the several good restaurants along the water, my favorite is the Boathouse, at 86–88 Stanley Main Street, the first one along the water on the main village street. To get to Stanley from Central, take the 6A or 6 bus from the Central Bus terminus, sit upstairs preferably in the front seat and enjoy one of the most fun rides in the world, IMO, as the bus goes up and over the mountain and down into the Southside. A real bargain at about HIK$9. (Check with your hotel as to the correct bus number, they sometimes change, you do NOT want the bus which goes through the Aberdeen Tunnel as you will miss a good bit of the most scenic and fun part of the ride IMO; you can also pick up the bus at various stops along the route including Pacific Place Mall, but note that the buses are very crowded on Sundays esp in good weather so starting out from the Central Bus terminus ensures that you will get a seat, you can wait for an emptier bus, they originate here and start very frequently.) There is an ATM in the market, many of the shops also take credit cards, but will give you a better price for cash. Nothing is fixed price unless the shop says so, bargain hard. Not matter what they tell you, I believe most of the pashminas are fake, still they feel nice and are dirt cheap.
3. The Lanes on Hong Kong Island
Li Yuen East Street
Li Yuen West Street
All days until around 7 pm in the evenings
These two narrow pedestrian lanes run between Queens Road and Des Voeux Road in Central. They are just past a McDonalds on Queens Road on your right. Some designer stuff, mostly T-shirts and some knock-offs. May be better for fake bags and watches.
4. Jardine's' Bazaar
Sogo Department Store area – Causeway Bay MTR
Hennessey Road
This area is changing a lot, and every time I go, more little stalls are closed and are replaced by restaurants, mobile phone shops or second hand designer bag shops. But if you have the time to walk around all the little streets here and spend a few hours, there are some small shops do have designer items at good prices. You have to have patience to find bargains. Lok Wah, mentioned above, is not far away on Lee Garden Street, so you could do both and spend the afternoon wandering the little shops.
Outlets for Clothing
1. Esprit Outlet
Basement
Kaiseng Commercial Centre
4 Hankow Road
Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: 2721-3318
(about one block from the Star Ferry pier on Salisbury, the Peninsula Hotel is on the corner)
Can't really speak for the clothing part, but it appears to have a good selection; I go for the Red Earth cosmetics discount area of the shop. It is very conveniently located in Tsim Sha Tsui near the Star Ferry, the Peninsula and the Chinese Arts and Crafts Shop, so it is very easy to pop in quickly.
2. Lane Crawford Warehouse – 25th Floor
Max Mara Outlet 27th Floor
Horizon Plaza
2 Li Wing Street
Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong Island
(near Aberdeen)
Max Mara outlet is closed on Mondays
This is in a huge warehouse of mostly furniture/antique stores (expensive to ship but they have some really wonderful shops and very good prices). Lane Crawford is an upscale Hong Kong department store and has a good size discount outlet here. It can be very hit or miss, but bargains are there are designer goods. Max Mara also has an outlet shops here and has a small but good selection, prices are quite good as well, about 1/3 of their retail stores. You need to take a taxi, will take about 20 minutes from Central and cost about US$20. You could combine this with a trip to Aberdeen as it is not too far; could also be combined with a trip to the Prada designer outlet at Space (see below).
3. Space
Marina Square East
2nd Floor Commercial Block
South Horizons
Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong Island
This is the Prada designer outlet for all its lines. You also need to take a taxi, would be about 20 minutes from Central and cost about US$20. I was here for the first time about 2 weeks ago, they do have a lot of stock. You have to be a bit patient and look.
4. Lok Wah
Lok Wah City, 11 Lee Garden Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong (Causeway Bay MTR)
Lok Wah Bo, 193 Fa Yuen Street Lok Wah (Mong Kok MTR stop)
Top World, 175 Fa Yuen Street, Lok Wah (Mong Kok MTR stop)
Top Place, 53/55 Granville Road, Kowloon (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Stop)
There are 4 outlets, one on Hong Kong Island and three in Kowloon. Have not been, but they apparently sell various designer brands at good prices, but you have to be lucky and hit them on a good day.
5. Kaiser Estate
Hung Hom, Kowloon
This is one of the original discount outlet areas in Hong Kong. I have not been myself, and am relying on info from friends. Apparently, you can take the 5 C bus from the Star Ferry piers at Hung Hom, alight when you reach Ma Tau Wai Road. You are looking for buildings on Man Yue Street, and Hok Yuen Street. A map of this area is helpful, you hotel may have one, or the Hong Kong tourist office may have one. You can also take a taxi, cost should be under HK$50 from the Star Ferry.
6. Dickson Warehouse
Kowloon MTR
http://www.dicksoncyber.com/mall.htm
Carries all kinds of brand names. They tend to have all sizes, including larger Western sizes. They have a good selection of ski jackets, outerwear and sporting goods. I would say there prices are good but not fantastic, do some comparison shopping at home to make sure you recognize a good price here.
Hong Kong Tailors
For tailors in Hong Kong, you will get what you pay for. The days of very cheap one day tailors are gone, despite what the guys handing out brochures at the Star Ferry will tell you. For suits, you need at least one fitting, better with two. For shirts, you need at least one fitting. For ladies dresses, you need at least 2 fittings. So if you are visiting for only a few days, make sure your tailor is the first stop on your itinerary. Do some comparison shopping for ready-made suits before you leave so you know whether what you are being offered is a bargain. All things considered, I don't know how cheap Hong Kong tailors really are anymore. I think for men's shirts and maybe very simple women's shirts and skirts they are probably a good deal. To me the advantage of a tailor is be able to choose the fabric, using a good quality fabric or a luxury fabric like cashmere and getting a custom fit. If you want seriously cheap tailoring, you need to go over the border into Guangzhou in mainland China (quality is quite poor in my opinion, however). If the following places are on your itinerary, you can probably find cheaper tailors there: Bangkok, Ho Chi Min City, possibly Beijing.
Some tailors I can recommend are:
Maxwell's Clothiers Ltd.
7A Han Hing Mansion
38-40 Hankow Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
website: maxwellsclothiers.com
e-mail: [email protected]
tel 852-2366-6705
fax: 852-2366-6658
Maxwell's is located in the Nathan Road area of Kowloon, where you will find a ton of tailors. There is a map on their website showing their location. They have an astonishing selection of fabrics. They will keep you measurements and you can order from them on-line in the future.
Margaret Court Tailoress
Flat G, 8th Floor
Block A Winner Building
27-37 D'Aguilar Street
Central Hong Kong
tel: 852-2525-5596
fax: 852-2537-0898
http://www.margaret-court.com.hk/
e-mail: [email protected]
Margaret does not make men's suits, she is primarily a women's tailor, although I believe she will make casual men's trousers and possibly shirts. Her shop, on the upper floor of an office/apartment building is in the middle of the Lan Kwai Fong bar and restaurant area, so is convenient.
For excellent quality shirts (but not really cheap) try David’s Shirts:
David’s Shirts
33 Kimberley Road
Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: (852) 2367 9556
Tips on using tailors:
It is advisable to make an appointment, esp with better tailors. You won't be rushed or pushed aside for other people coming in. In my experience, they all speak English; it would be most unusual to find a tailor catering to Western tourists who does not. The level of English in Hong Kong is generally excellent.
You can bring a piece of clothing you like to have it copied. They will not take the item apart to copy it. They may not even keep it, and may only take a brief look at it and take some measurements.
Tailors can copy from a picture; however they need front, back and side views; esp if it is a dress with a low back or similar feature. If you don't have pictures from all sides, be prepared to describe features that are not included in a photograph. If the picture is of a dress by a well-known designer, then just a frontal photo should be OK, they should be familiar with it (or have copied it for someone else.) You can choose to use a different fabric if you like, but do consider their recommendations as to how different fabrics will hang and wear, etc.
Some tailors will have a posted price list, but you can bargain, esp if you are ordering a large number of pieces. Custom work and copying from pictures or your existing clothing will cost you more than using one of their designs.
Hand Made Bags and Shoes
In Hong Kong, if you want to buy a very good quality copy of a Birkin bag or Kelley bag that is not cheap (like US$350 or more) then the places below are where you should go. You can buy ready-made and also have custom copies made; for custom pieces these places will line the inside of the bag in any material you want, like suede, and will custom design the inside to add a mobile phone pocket, sunglass pocket, etc, which you can't get in the original versions. Custom work needs at least a few days to complete, I am not sure if you have that much time. You could have them ship the bag to you back in the US, I would certainly trust Mayer for this, the other two are well-known here as well, I just personally have not used them but have used Mayer for many years. None of these places have copies of things like LV or Guicci with patterned leather on the outside, but all use very nice quality plain leather and have a large range of colors available.
Ashneil
Shop 114 Far East Mansions
5-6 Middle Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowlon
Maylin
Peninsula Hotel Shopping Arcade
Salisbury Road
Kowloon
Mayer Shoes
10 Chater Road
Princes Building Shopping Arcade
Shop 325 A
Tel: 852-2524-3317
Mayer Shoes also makes very good quality shoes, and will copy any bag you already have, just bring it along. They just shifted to this shop in early January from the Mandarin Hotel, which is closed for the next year for renovations, so you may have to hunt around this shopping arcade to find it. Prince's Building is across the street from the Mandarin Hotel and very close to the Star Ferry, there is a pedestrian underpass from the Star Ferry that exits up onto Chater Road across the street from the Prince's Building.
Left Foot Company
Shop No.15
Ground Floor, Houston Centre
63 Mody Road
Tsim Sha Tsui East
Kowloon
Tel : (852) 2367 6007
Email: [email protected]
websote: https://shop.leftfootcompany.com
Makes leather shoes for men only, starting at about US$350. You can do the sizing on the web and order and then pick up when you are there, or go there first and have them sent to you.
Second Hand Designer Handbags
Also in Hong Kong, if you want to buy second hand but REAL bags like Louis Vuitton, Prada, etc, try the Milan Station shops, there are several located in Hong Kong. Prices here are about 10-30%% of the original prices, so still pricey but a real bargain compared to the original prices. The main shops are:
Milan Station
26 Wellington St
Lan Kwai Fong
Central
This is right in the heart of the bar/restaurant district and a few blocks from the Star Ferry.
Milan Station
57 Percival St
Causeway Bay
Milan Station
Room 1502
15th Floor Top Glory Tower
262 Gloucester Rd, Causeway Bay
Fake Watches and Bags
Hong Kong is trying to lose is reputation of being a centre for fake goods, so it is harder to find them, I have not shopped for them in many years myself. I do not think the quality is very good, esp the bags. I would not spend a lot of time, effort or certainly money on this; have fun, bargain hard, and do not pay very much money as you won't be getting very good quality.
1. Ladies Market/Temple Street Night Market in Kowlon
Nathan Road and Argyle Street (Mong Kok MTR Station)
Every evening, starting around 5 pm
Electronics and copy watches and bags, sometimes there are only photos of the bags and you have to ask to see the actual merchandise, sometimes they don't even show photos and you have to ask a stallholder "copy bag?' "copy watches"? I am NOT of fan of either market, as the Luxe Guide so aptly says "everything you never needed in one rancid place". I think tourists like them because they take place at night and people don't know what else to do with their time, albeit there are cultural offerings at various venues every night and a zillion excellent restaurants. As I say, if you want to see other tourists buying copy watches, then go to one of these "markets". If you want to see actual Hong Kongers buying provisions for their evening meal and arguing with the butcher in Cantonese, then go to the evening food markets along Queen's Road East in Wan Chai on Hong Kong island.
2. The Lanes on Hong Kong Island
Li Yuen East Street
Li Yuen West Street
All days until around 8 pm in the evenings
I don't know that they have fake watches or bags, you may have to ask a stallholder "copy bag?' "copy watches"?
3. Stanley Market – Stanley Beach
Hong Kong Island
All days, until about 7 pm
They are known for discounts on table linens, outerwear and souvenirs. They may also have fakes, you may have to ask a stallholder "copy bag?' "copy watches"?
If you can tell me whether they are interested in a particular item, esp jewelry, rugs or large items like furniture, I can recommend specific shops.
First, some shopping myths that need to be dispelled and some suggestions:
1. Unless you are from Europe, electronics are NOT cheaper in Hong Kong. I would not waste time looking. You may be able to find slightly newer models here, but be very careful of being ripped off by paying too much for new models that have not hit US stores and so you don't know what prices they will bear. This is especially so along the infamous Nathan Road area in Kowloon. In any event, do some comparison shopping at home first so you know what relative prices are and you can recognize a good price. Bargain hard, pay cash as the shop keeper will be reluctant to lower his price if you are paying using a credit card. Be sure the item is dual voltage if you will need it to work on US current, including any batter recharger. Be sure the warranty is international, that is, you can get it repaired under warranty in the US. Some warranties are only good in the country or region in which the goods are sold (This is a real problem in Dubai in my experience). Be sure to read the warranty. I personally would not waste time looking for electronics in Hong Kong.
2. Other than watches, you will NOT find that designer clothing, handbags, etc, if purchased in the brand's store, i.e., a Prada bag purchased in the Prada store, are cheaper than in the US or Europe. In mainland China, these items are in fact more expensive than in the US or Europe, as PRC nationals will pay a premium for the brand. (I see a little of that price creep here as well but generally prices seem to compare to the US and Europe.) There is no sales tax in Hong Kong (other than on liquor and some items which tourists generally don't buy like cars) so that may be attractive if you are from a high-tax state or from Canada, and as the exchange rate is pegged to the US dollar the prices are constant and so you will not generally "lose" money if you buy an item here, but again, I don't think it is worth the time and effort buying full-price designer items here. (Discounted designer items and second hand goods can be found, these are discussed below; they are worth looking for if that is an interest.)
3. Watches are generally about 25% cheaper, esp the high-end brands like Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, etc. Do some comparison shopping before you leave home so you have an idea of price. I would buy only from long-term established and reliable shops in the Central area or the Pacific Place or IFC Malls. I can recommend Artland Watch Company at New Henry House, Ice House Street in Central. Make sure you get an international warranty.
3. Fake handbags and DVDs can be found. You will get what you pay for, which is not very much for not very much, especially with regard to handbags, and I see tourists really paying far to much for very pool quality bags that I would personally be embarrassed to carry around (it's the handles and the hardware, give them 6 months and you will see). The fake watches are also so clearly fake I don't know how an adult can actually wear them, the moment you show them to someone who has a real one they would instantly know, and if they are bought for a joke, I guess I just don't get it. I give a little info on that below, but generally I know very little about it and don't encourage it. First of all, it is illegal. Secondly, I don't believe in ripping off people who have worked hard to develop a brand, a quality product, an art form, etc and are not getting paid for the benefit of their hard work.
4. You should consider getting the Suzy Gershmann book called "Born to Shop Hong Kong" if you really are into serious shopping. There are several editions, including one which covers Guangzhou and Shanghai. You may be able to borrow it from somebody or see if your library has it, although you need an edition that is not more than a year old, as things are getting torn down pretty quickly here.
5. What I find so amazing about Hong Kong shopping is that you can find virtually any item made anywhere in the world. You may have to dig around a little bit, or you may see things right out there that will surprise you. There is a Hang Ten clothing shop in downtown Central. I have not seen that clothing line since like the early 1970's and did not think they were even in business anymore; and certainly Hong Kong is not a surfing culture. One of my favorite cosmetic lines is Jurlique. They have 8 outlets here, and when I lived in Switzerland with almost the same size population, I had to go to Geneva to find it. So, if there is a favorite item you want to stock up on or have trouble finding at home, this is the place to look for it.
6. The other thing I like about Hong Kong shopping are the unknown designers. The "Soho" area on Hong Kong Island is just a lot of fun to walk around in and poke into the small boutiques there to see what is new. There are all kinds of little shops there selling shoes, clothes, handbags, house wares, art (some very pricey, some not). To help things there are lots of great cafes and restaurants in the neighborhood as well. The main streets to browse are Staunton, Elgin, Peel, and Old Bailey; although Hollywood Road is excellent for antiques and expensive artwork, and then you can go along Hollywood Road to the Man Mo temple and the Cat Street area for cheaper antiques and kitsch stuff like little red books of Mao's sayings. You can take the free escalator up from Central to this area and then just wander around. The Luxe Guide to Hong Kong gives some good tips to this area, IMO.
7. I have found that while designer clothing at outlet prices is hard to find and getting rarer, you can still find get good quality hand-made items here at good prices. You can have suits made of course, not cheaply anymore but very well made. You can have bags and shoes made, see below. There is a place in the New Territories where you can design your own china as well as buy their pre-made patterns. These are at a good price (albeit I doubt you want to lug this around on a vacation or pay to ship it to the US). There are several outlets in the Aberdeen area for hand-made blue and white porcelain jars, vases etc. There is a guy who makes beautiful silk lampshades starting at about US$45. Rugs are a good buy here.
8. Jewelry, rugs and furniture are a good buy here; but you do have to know your prices and consider shipping costs and duty. Shipping costs for a piece of furniture is generally about 50% of the price of the piece.
9. Stores are generally open every day, from about 10 – 7 pm, including most public holidays EXCEPT for 2-3 days over Chinese New Year which is celebrated at varying dates between January and February each year. Some places like department stores and malls are open later, until 8:30 or 9 pm, you can call to confirm. Note that in Hong Kong parlance, a shop on the "first floor" is UPSTAIRS one flight, it is not on the ground or street level, that is called the "ground floor" or G/F level.
Favourite Shops for Gifts, Goods and Souvenirs
1. Chinese Arts and Crafts Department Store
Star House, 3 Salisbury Rd. (Tsimshatsui)
(at the Star Ferry Pier)
230 Pacific Place
Tel: 2827-6667
This is a fixed-price shop with just a myriad of goods on offer from bolts of cloth to tablecloths to clothing to porcelain to all kinds of souvenirs to wall hangings to jewelry. The main outlet is right at the Star Ferry pier in Kowloon. It is a good place to do shopping for gifts (up on the second floor),and to get an idea of prices for when you go to other places where bargaining is the rule but you will see many of the same goods. They will ship as well. They have smaller shops in Pacific Place (mainly jewelry and some clothing) and also at the airport.
2. Shanghai Tang
Basement and First Floor
Pedder Building
12 Pedder Street
http://www.shanghaitang.com/shanghaitang/index.jsp
(Also outlets in Pacific Place Mall and the Peninsula Hotel)
This has lots of interesting stuff (think hot pink silk Mao jackets) and good gift items (ginger spice candles, Mao watches), but not at a discount. Fixed price. The main store is in the great Pedder Building (see below). The other outlets are smaller but conveniently located if you are in the area. They also have an outlet at the airport.
3. Blanc de Chine
2nd Floor
Pedder Building
12 Pedder Street
Decidedly non-discount silk clothing, bed linens and gift items. They have cashmere and wool clothing as well. Beautifully designed and made. Worth a look at the very least.
4. Hong Kong Museum of Art Museum Shop
First Floor
10 Salisbury Road
Kowloon Hong Kong
Tel: 2180-9871
This is a great museum store with all kinds of books, artwork (esp wall scrolls) cards, Chinese music CDs, and all kinds of other art-related stuff at good fixed prices. I like to buy the Chinese music CDs because they are so cheap and its a good way to learn about classical Chinese music. They have interesting cards and artwork as well. It is right on the waterfront in Kowloon where you will undoubtedly be going to anyway, so is a good place to stop in, esp as it is air conditioned. The museum itself is excellent and can be "done" in an hour or two and admission is only HK$10 (about US$1.25, admission is free on Wednesdays), so it is a few hours well spent, and great harbour views to boot. For info on the museum and its exhibits, go to http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Art...ro/eintro.html. You do not have to pay admission to get into the shop, as there is an separate outside entrance.
5. Pearls & Cashmere
http://www.pearlsandcashmere.com
Shops in the Peninsula Hotel, Times Square Mall and other locations
Cashmere is a good buy in Hong Kong, but you have to be very careful of fakes. I would do a little comparison shopping at home to see prices in your area and to get an idea of quality and feel. The above shop is very reputable and has been in business for many years. Their main shop in the Mandarin Hotel is currently closed as the hotel is being renovated, but their Peninsula Hotel outlet has a lot of merchandise. Fixed price, but they often run sales.
6. Wattis Fine Art
21 Hollywood Road
2nd floor
tel: 2524-5302
http://www.wattis.com.hk/
Picture This
Suite 603B, 6/F
9 Queen's Road
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2525-2820
http://www.picturethiscollection.com...current/page1/
Both shops carry antique maps and prints from South East Asia and elsewhere. Picture This has Hong Kong movie and travel posters, and also usually has rare original old Hong Kong photos which are different from the typical reproduction old photos you see for sale in the tourist shops. Both welcome browsers and are helpful and knowledgeable. Picture This is associated with Altfield Gallery, a very well-known and reputable antique dealer in Hong Kong. The entrance to Wattis is actually on Old Bailey Street, and it is easy to stop in as part of walk in the Hollywood Road or Soho area. Picture This is in an office building next to the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank building and not far from the Star Ferry.
7. Flea & Cents
First Floor
34-38 Queen's Road East
Wanchai
Tel: (852)2528 0808
I think I was literally their very first customer when they opened their original shop on Wing Tung Street in 1997. The owners are a couple in their early 30s (they were like 12 years old when they first opened...) and they have very eclectic taste. There is some 1970s retro stuff, toys, house wares and small items which make good gifts, all kinds of fun and serious stuff. Worth a stop in on the way to the evening food markets further along Queen's Road which is, IMO, the best people-watching in Hong Kong (also on Saturdays and Sundays).
8. The Birdcage
22 Floor
Horizon Plaza
2 Li Wing Street
Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong Island
(near Aberdeen)
Tel: (852) 2580-5822
Beautiful antique and old furniture sourced mainly from China, he has some smaller pieces and also, as the name implies, birdcages. He will hunt down particular pieces for you. Clarence is very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. His prices are much less than the Hollywood Road area and less than some of the other shops in the Horizon Plaza building.
Shopping Areas
1. Pedder Building
12 Pedder Street
(about 2-3 blocks from the Star Ferry
next to the Central MTR stop)
Central, Hong Kong
This is very conveniently right in Central and is worth a look, esp for discounts on Chanel suits and other designer goods, although sizes tend to be small. There are also several cashmere shops, but be careful because some of the cashmere is fake. There are several shoe stores and at my last visit, a baby store. There wonderful Blanc de Chine is here, as is Shanghai Tang.
2. Stanley Market
This would be #3 on my list of things to tell tourists to do, right after the Star Ferry and the Peak Tram. This is a half day to a full day outing to the "back side" of Hong Kong Island and half the fun is getting there via the double-decker bus from Central. Stanley is on the water and has a outdoor souk-type good market which sells all kinds of souvenirs, table cloths and bed linens, Christmas decorations, artwork, athletic shoes, suitcases, clothing, and sundry items. I am not sure how much designer discount stuff you will find here other than copy bags and maybe T shirts, however, it is an extremely pleasant way to spend the day. I would strongly recco including a stop for lunch or dinner at any one of the several good restaurants along the water, my favorite is the Boathouse, at 86–88 Stanley Main Street, the first one along the water on the main village street. To get to Stanley from Central, take the 6A or 6 bus from the Central Bus terminus, sit upstairs preferably in the front seat and enjoy one of the most fun rides in the world, IMO, as the bus goes up and over the mountain and down into the Southside. A real bargain at about HIK$9. (Check with your hotel as to the correct bus number, they sometimes change, you do NOT want the bus which goes through the Aberdeen Tunnel as you will miss a good bit of the most scenic and fun part of the ride IMO; you can also pick up the bus at various stops along the route including Pacific Place Mall, but note that the buses are very crowded on Sundays esp in good weather so starting out from the Central Bus terminus ensures that you will get a seat, you can wait for an emptier bus, they originate here and start very frequently.) There is an ATM in the market, many of the shops also take credit cards, but will give you a better price for cash. Nothing is fixed price unless the shop says so, bargain hard. Not matter what they tell you, I believe most of the pashminas are fake, still they feel nice and are dirt cheap.
3. The Lanes on Hong Kong Island
Li Yuen East Street
Li Yuen West Street
All days until around 7 pm in the evenings
These two narrow pedestrian lanes run between Queens Road and Des Voeux Road in Central. They are just past a McDonalds on Queens Road on your right. Some designer stuff, mostly T-shirts and some knock-offs. May be better for fake bags and watches.
4. Jardine's' Bazaar
Sogo Department Store area – Causeway Bay MTR
Hennessey Road
This area is changing a lot, and every time I go, more little stalls are closed and are replaced by restaurants, mobile phone shops or second hand designer bag shops. But if you have the time to walk around all the little streets here and spend a few hours, there are some small shops do have designer items at good prices. You have to have patience to find bargains. Lok Wah, mentioned above, is not far away on Lee Garden Street, so you could do both and spend the afternoon wandering the little shops.
Outlets for Clothing
1. Esprit Outlet
Basement
Kaiseng Commercial Centre
4 Hankow Road
Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: 2721-3318
(about one block from the Star Ferry pier on Salisbury, the Peninsula Hotel is on the corner)
Can't really speak for the clothing part, but it appears to have a good selection; I go for the Red Earth cosmetics discount area of the shop. It is very conveniently located in Tsim Sha Tsui near the Star Ferry, the Peninsula and the Chinese Arts and Crafts Shop, so it is very easy to pop in quickly.
2. Lane Crawford Warehouse – 25th Floor
Max Mara Outlet 27th Floor
Horizon Plaza
2 Li Wing Street
Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong Island
(near Aberdeen)
Max Mara outlet is closed on Mondays
This is in a huge warehouse of mostly furniture/antique stores (expensive to ship but they have some really wonderful shops and very good prices). Lane Crawford is an upscale Hong Kong department store and has a good size discount outlet here. It can be very hit or miss, but bargains are there are designer goods. Max Mara also has an outlet shops here and has a small but good selection, prices are quite good as well, about 1/3 of their retail stores. You need to take a taxi, will take about 20 minutes from Central and cost about US$20. You could combine this with a trip to Aberdeen as it is not too far; could also be combined with a trip to the Prada designer outlet at Space (see below).
3. Space
Marina Square East
2nd Floor Commercial Block
South Horizons
Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong Island
This is the Prada designer outlet for all its lines. You also need to take a taxi, would be about 20 minutes from Central and cost about US$20. I was here for the first time about 2 weeks ago, they do have a lot of stock. You have to be a bit patient and look.
4. Lok Wah
Lok Wah City, 11 Lee Garden Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong (Causeway Bay MTR)
Lok Wah Bo, 193 Fa Yuen Street Lok Wah (Mong Kok MTR stop)
Top World, 175 Fa Yuen Street, Lok Wah (Mong Kok MTR stop)
Top Place, 53/55 Granville Road, Kowloon (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Stop)
There are 4 outlets, one on Hong Kong Island and three in Kowloon. Have not been, but they apparently sell various designer brands at good prices, but you have to be lucky and hit them on a good day.
5. Kaiser Estate
Hung Hom, Kowloon
This is one of the original discount outlet areas in Hong Kong. I have not been myself, and am relying on info from friends. Apparently, you can take the 5 C bus from the Star Ferry piers at Hung Hom, alight when you reach Ma Tau Wai Road. You are looking for buildings on Man Yue Street, and Hok Yuen Street. A map of this area is helpful, you hotel may have one, or the Hong Kong tourist office may have one. You can also take a taxi, cost should be under HK$50 from the Star Ferry.
6. Dickson Warehouse
Kowloon MTR
http://www.dicksoncyber.com/mall.htm
Carries all kinds of brand names. They tend to have all sizes, including larger Western sizes. They have a good selection of ski jackets, outerwear and sporting goods. I would say there prices are good but not fantastic, do some comparison shopping at home to make sure you recognize a good price here.
Hong Kong Tailors
For tailors in Hong Kong, you will get what you pay for. The days of very cheap one day tailors are gone, despite what the guys handing out brochures at the Star Ferry will tell you. For suits, you need at least one fitting, better with two. For shirts, you need at least one fitting. For ladies dresses, you need at least 2 fittings. So if you are visiting for only a few days, make sure your tailor is the first stop on your itinerary. Do some comparison shopping for ready-made suits before you leave so you know whether what you are being offered is a bargain. All things considered, I don't know how cheap Hong Kong tailors really are anymore. I think for men's shirts and maybe very simple women's shirts and skirts they are probably a good deal. To me the advantage of a tailor is be able to choose the fabric, using a good quality fabric or a luxury fabric like cashmere and getting a custom fit. If you want seriously cheap tailoring, you need to go over the border into Guangzhou in mainland China (quality is quite poor in my opinion, however). If the following places are on your itinerary, you can probably find cheaper tailors there: Bangkok, Ho Chi Min City, possibly Beijing.
Some tailors I can recommend are:
Maxwell's Clothiers Ltd.
7A Han Hing Mansion
38-40 Hankow Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
website: maxwellsclothiers.com
e-mail: [email protected]
tel 852-2366-6705
fax: 852-2366-6658
Maxwell's is located in the Nathan Road area of Kowloon, where you will find a ton of tailors. There is a map on their website showing their location. They have an astonishing selection of fabrics. They will keep you measurements and you can order from them on-line in the future.
Margaret Court Tailoress
Flat G, 8th Floor
Block A Winner Building
27-37 D'Aguilar Street
Central Hong Kong
tel: 852-2525-5596
fax: 852-2537-0898
http://www.margaret-court.com.hk/
e-mail: [email protected]
Margaret does not make men's suits, she is primarily a women's tailor, although I believe she will make casual men's trousers and possibly shirts. Her shop, on the upper floor of an office/apartment building is in the middle of the Lan Kwai Fong bar and restaurant area, so is convenient.
For excellent quality shirts (but not really cheap) try David’s Shirts:
David’s Shirts
33 Kimberley Road
Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: (852) 2367 9556
Tips on using tailors:
It is advisable to make an appointment, esp with better tailors. You won't be rushed or pushed aside for other people coming in. In my experience, they all speak English; it would be most unusual to find a tailor catering to Western tourists who does not. The level of English in Hong Kong is generally excellent.
You can bring a piece of clothing you like to have it copied. They will not take the item apart to copy it. They may not even keep it, and may only take a brief look at it and take some measurements.
Tailors can copy from a picture; however they need front, back and side views; esp if it is a dress with a low back or similar feature. If you don't have pictures from all sides, be prepared to describe features that are not included in a photograph. If the picture is of a dress by a well-known designer, then just a frontal photo should be OK, they should be familiar with it (or have copied it for someone else.) You can choose to use a different fabric if you like, but do consider their recommendations as to how different fabrics will hang and wear, etc.
Some tailors will have a posted price list, but you can bargain, esp if you are ordering a large number of pieces. Custom work and copying from pictures or your existing clothing will cost you more than using one of their designs.
Hand Made Bags and Shoes
In Hong Kong, if you want to buy a very good quality copy of a Birkin bag or Kelley bag that is not cheap (like US$350 or more) then the places below are where you should go. You can buy ready-made and also have custom copies made; for custom pieces these places will line the inside of the bag in any material you want, like suede, and will custom design the inside to add a mobile phone pocket, sunglass pocket, etc, which you can't get in the original versions. Custom work needs at least a few days to complete, I am not sure if you have that much time. You could have them ship the bag to you back in the US, I would certainly trust Mayer for this, the other two are well-known here as well, I just personally have not used them but have used Mayer for many years. None of these places have copies of things like LV or Guicci with patterned leather on the outside, but all use very nice quality plain leather and have a large range of colors available.
Ashneil
Shop 114 Far East Mansions
5-6 Middle Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowlon
Maylin
Peninsula Hotel Shopping Arcade
Salisbury Road
Kowloon
Mayer Shoes
10 Chater Road
Princes Building Shopping Arcade
Shop 325 A
Tel: 852-2524-3317
Mayer Shoes also makes very good quality shoes, and will copy any bag you already have, just bring it along. They just shifted to this shop in early January from the Mandarin Hotel, which is closed for the next year for renovations, so you may have to hunt around this shopping arcade to find it. Prince's Building is across the street from the Mandarin Hotel and very close to the Star Ferry, there is a pedestrian underpass from the Star Ferry that exits up onto Chater Road across the street from the Prince's Building.
Left Foot Company
Shop No.15
Ground Floor, Houston Centre
63 Mody Road
Tsim Sha Tsui East
Kowloon
Tel : (852) 2367 6007
Email: [email protected]
websote: https://shop.leftfootcompany.com
Makes leather shoes for men only, starting at about US$350. You can do the sizing on the web and order and then pick up when you are there, or go there first and have them sent to you.
Second Hand Designer Handbags
Also in Hong Kong, if you want to buy second hand but REAL bags like Louis Vuitton, Prada, etc, try the Milan Station shops, there are several located in Hong Kong. Prices here are about 10-30%% of the original prices, so still pricey but a real bargain compared to the original prices. The main shops are:
Milan Station
26 Wellington St
Lan Kwai Fong
Central
This is right in the heart of the bar/restaurant district and a few blocks from the Star Ferry.
Milan Station
57 Percival St
Causeway Bay
Milan Station
Room 1502
15th Floor Top Glory Tower
262 Gloucester Rd, Causeway Bay
Fake Watches and Bags
Hong Kong is trying to lose is reputation of being a centre for fake goods, so it is harder to find them, I have not shopped for them in many years myself. I do not think the quality is very good, esp the bags. I would not spend a lot of time, effort or certainly money on this; have fun, bargain hard, and do not pay very much money as you won't be getting very good quality.
1. Ladies Market/Temple Street Night Market in Kowlon
Nathan Road and Argyle Street (Mong Kok MTR Station)
Every evening, starting around 5 pm
Electronics and copy watches and bags, sometimes there are only photos of the bags and you have to ask to see the actual merchandise, sometimes they don't even show photos and you have to ask a stallholder "copy bag?' "copy watches"? I am NOT of fan of either market, as the Luxe Guide so aptly says "everything you never needed in one rancid place". I think tourists like them because they take place at night and people don't know what else to do with their time, albeit there are cultural offerings at various venues every night and a zillion excellent restaurants. As I say, if you want to see other tourists buying copy watches, then go to one of these "markets". If you want to see actual Hong Kongers buying provisions for their evening meal and arguing with the butcher in Cantonese, then go to the evening food markets along Queen's Road East in Wan Chai on Hong Kong island.
2. The Lanes on Hong Kong Island
Li Yuen East Street
Li Yuen West Street
All days until around 8 pm in the evenings
I don't know that they have fake watches or bags, you may have to ask a stallholder "copy bag?' "copy watches"?
3. Stanley Market – Stanley Beach
Hong Kong Island
All days, until about 7 pm
They are known for discounts on table linens, outerwear and souvenirs. They may also have fakes, you may have to ask a stallholder "copy bag?' "copy watches"?
May 30th, 2006, 05:31 PM
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Wow, thanks Cicerone for the time and trouble for your detailed post. I'm printing it and taking it with me next time I go to Hong Kong.
I used to live in Hong Kong too, but my shopping info is way out of date. Although some of the places you mentioned do bring back memories.
Thank you again!
I used to live in Hong Kong too, but my shopping info is way out of date. Although some of the places you mentioned do bring back memories.
Thank you again!
May 31st, 2006, 08:05 AM
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cicerone, thanks, indeed this is amazing! whenever i'm in HK, i am afraid to venture out of the usual places for fear of touts and whatnots! i shall print this one out, this would certainly help in my next trip. so generous!
Jun 1st, 2006, 12:14 AM
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Well, if I may be so bold as to suggest some evening activities in lieu of those awful Ladies and Temple Street Markets...tickets for any of the following will cost you less than that fake Louis Vuitton bag and the memories will last much longer. What's more you will see and maybe meet average Hong Kong people who are not trying to sell you a fake watch or make you a suit.
1. Hong Kong Philharmonic
http://www.hkpo.com/eng/index.php
Excellent orchestra, often has guest performers, conductors and guest orchestras. Performances take place at the Cultural Centre on the waterfront, so before or after you can take in the fabulous night skyline (and you could even go to the Ladies Market or Temple Street market for the last hour afterwards if you really must....). Tickets are laughingly inexpensive by US standards, even the very best seats are US$32, and they are rarely sold out, you can usually get a ticket on the day of a performance. No one dresses up.
2. Hong Kong Dance Company
http://www.hkdance.com/
In addition to their own excellent company, they often sponsor guest companies, they just had a Tibetan company last month and co-sponsored a wonderful Indian dance company in April. Performances take place mostly at the Culture Centre in Kowloon or the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (see below). Tickets are generally less than US$25 for the best seats, and again are rarely sold out.
3. Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts
http://www.hkapa.edu/
This is a government-sponsored institution which trains musicians, dancers and other artists offers all kinds of programs, mostly in English. In addition to student programs, it also offers professional performances by local and guest artists. Many performances are free as they are the final exam projects of students. For paid performances, as with other cultural offerings, tickets are very reasonable and easily available on the day of performances in most cases. The Academy is located in Wanchai on Hong Kong Island near to the Convention Centre and the Grand Hyatt, and walkable from the Pacific Place area. The very nice Quaterdeck Restaurant which as an outdoor deck on the water is located about 2 blocks away and is a good spot for lunch or dinner. There are also several good restaurants in the Wanchai area nearby like the Chili Club, cheap and cheerful Thai food.
Quaterdeck Club Seafood Restaurant and Grill
Fleet Arcade at Fenwick Pier
1 Lung King Street
Wanchai
Tel 2827 8882
Chili Club
1/F, 88 Lockhart Road
Wanchai, Hong Kong
Tel: 2527 2872
1. Hong Kong Philharmonic
http://www.hkpo.com/eng/index.php
Excellent orchestra, often has guest performers, conductors and guest orchestras. Performances take place at the Cultural Centre on the waterfront, so before or after you can take in the fabulous night skyline (and you could even go to the Ladies Market or Temple Street market for the last hour afterwards if you really must....). Tickets are laughingly inexpensive by US standards, even the very best seats are US$32, and they are rarely sold out, you can usually get a ticket on the day of a performance. No one dresses up.
2. Hong Kong Dance Company
http://www.hkdance.com/
In addition to their own excellent company, they often sponsor guest companies, they just had a Tibetan company last month and co-sponsored a wonderful Indian dance company in April. Performances take place mostly at the Culture Centre in Kowloon or the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (see below). Tickets are generally less than US$25 for the best seats, and again are rarely sold out.
3. Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts
http://www.hkapa.edu/
This is a government-sponsored institution which trains musicians, dancers and other artists offers all kinds of programs, mostly in English. In addition to student programs, it also offers professional performances by local and guest artists. Many performances are free as they are the final exam projects of students. For paid performances, as with other cultural offerings, tickets are very reasonable and easily available on the day of performances in most cases. The Academy is located in Wanchai on Hong Kong Island near to the Convention Centre and the Grand Hyatt, and walkable from the Pacific Place area. The very nice Quaterdeck Restaurant which as an outdoor deck on the water is located about 2 blocks away and is a good spot for lunch or dinner. There are also several good restaurants in the Wanchai area nearby like the Chili Club, cheap and cheerful Thai food.
Quaterdeck Club Seafood Restaurant and Grill
Fleet Arcade at Fenwick Pier
1 Lung King Street
Wanchai
Tel 2827 8882
Chili Club
1/F, 88 Lockhart Road
Wanchai, Hong Kong
Tel: 2527 2872
Jun 1st, 2006, 05:41 PM
#16
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What a great delatied list Cicerone. I've been to HK 4x and thought I had shopped everywhere. I am going back in the fall for 12 days and will definetly look into some of the places you mention that I haven't visited before.
In response to one of your earlier postings...you said "My favourite walk is around Severn Road, even better views. This is harder to get to, you can walk uphill or take a taxi."
We've done the peak walk 3 times and I am interested in the one around Severn Road. How do we get to this one?
Betty
In response to one of your earlier postings...you said "My favourite walk is around Severn Road, even better views. This is harder to get to, you can walk uphill or take a taxi."
We've done the peak walk 3 times and I am interested in the one around Severn Road. How do we get to this one?
Betty
Jun 1st, 2006, 11:23 PM
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Severn Road walk:
From the Peak Tram station, head east on Finday Road. You will first walk by the Lions Pavilion. Great view from there. Continue on, you'll come to a junction of Plantation Road and Severn Road. You can bear left and take the Severn Road loop around Mount Gough, and then get back to Plantation Road.
Or if you bear right and take Plantation Road, you can go almost to the top of Mount Gough by taking the Pollock's Path (which is a dead end).
Which ever way, continue on Plantation Road, and it'll loop to the south side, and then you can follow Plunkett's Road back to the Peak Galleria and Peak Tram station.
Cicerone, our shopping guru, mentioned about taking the bus to Stanley earlier. There are 4 routes that go from Central to Stanley. Only #6 goes over Wong Nai Chung Gap. The other three - #6A, 6X and 260 all take the Aberdeen Tunnel. While I also find the #6 more exciting, I think if possible, one should take one route going and the other back. The Aberdeen Tunnel route also goes past Deep Water Bay. [#61 from Central also goes over Wong Nai Chung Gap, but it terminates at Repulse Bay, before getting to Stanley.]
From the Peak Tram station, head east on Finday Road. You will first walk by the Lions Pavilion. Great view from there. Continue on, you'll come to a junction of Plantation Road and Severn Road. You can bear left and take the Severn Road loop around Mount Gough, and then get back to Plantation Road.
Or if you bear right and take Plantation Road, you can go almost to the top of Mount Gough by taking the Pollock's Path (which is a dead end).
Which ever way, continue on Plantation Road, and it'll loop to the south side, and then you can follow Plunkett's Road back to the Peak Galleria and Peak Tram station.
Cicerone, our shopping guru, mentioned about taking the bus to Stanley earlier. There are 4 routes that go from Central to Stanley. Only #6 goes over Wong Nai Chung Gap. The other three - #6A, 6X and 260 all take the Aberdeen Tunnel. While I also find the #6 more exciting, I think if possible, one should take one route going and the other back. The Aberdeen Tunnel route also goes past Deep Water Bay. [#61 from Central also goes over Wong Nai Chung Gap, but it terminates at Repulse Bay, before getting to Stanley.]
Jun 2nd, 2006, 12:10 AM
#18
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It's wonderful to have this much in depth information. Thanks so much for the "after hours" guide as well.
Would we be tempting the fates to spend a few days in Hong Kong in early August? I understand the weather is very rainly a that time and the chance of a thyphoon is high...
Would we be tempting the fates to spend a few days in Hong Kong in early August? I understand the weather is very rainly a that time and the chance of a thyphoon is high...
Jun 2nd, 2006, 02:30 AM
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rkwan, I am working on a longer description that also gives the option of going up to Severn via the path from Barker Road and taking the #15 bus to get to Barker, as the Severn Road route you describe is a lot in deep woods and while pretty and quiet, does not give many good views until you get up quite a ways onto Severn well past Hospital Path. Will post later.
Welch, IMO August is really less than ideal. It is prime typhoon season as well, and usually is quite rainy even f you don't get any typhoons. Mostly is awful because it is very very very humid and generally very hot. It is the humidty, not the heat, that is so draining. If you have no other choice, what can you do. But if you can pick other months, of course I would recco that. If you get a bad typhoon even shops have to close so you may really feel you have wasted time and money.
Take a look at weatherbase.com for historical info.
It has been raining here and overcast really for the last 2 weeks, including today which is a category red rain, it is raining too hard to go out almost. If we go to a category black rain, our office will be closing. I had a friend here for 3 days and thank God on one day it did not rain (although it was completely overcast) so we could go out, but she never saw the Peak view from my house due to fog and all she could really do yesterday was shop and today could not go out much at all before she left for a hopefully drier Beijing.
Welch, IMO August is really less than ideal. It is prime typhoon season as well, and usually is quite rainy even f you don't get any typhoons. Mostly is awful because it is very very very humid and generally very hot. It is the humidty, not the heat, that is so draining. If you have no other choice, what can you do. But if you can pick other months, of course I would recco that. If you get a bad typhoon even shops have to close so you may really feel you have wasted time and money.
Take a look at weatherbase.com for historical info.
It has been raining here and overcast really for the last 2 weeks, including today which is a category red rain, it is raining too hard to go out almost. If we go to a category black rain, our office will be closing. I had a friend here for 3 days and thank God on one day it did not rain (although it was completely overcast) so we could go out, but she never saw the Peak view from my house due to fog and all she could really do yesterday was shop and today could not go out much at all before she left for a hopefully drier Beijing.
