shopping in germany
 

I would like any tips about shopping in Germany(Munchen,Basel, Berlin) mainly good places to buy swiss watches . Thanks.Lilibel

You might consider buying that Swiss watch in Basel, SWITZERLAND, since you are going to be so close..just cross the border...that's where I'd look first.

When will you be in Basel and what's your price range? Basel hosts a major watch and jewelry show but you're talking a lotta Swiss Francs for that.

You may consider buying German watches as well - Freiburg is a centre for the renewal of watch making in Germany producing modern designs. I have one from a.b. art one of the 3-4 up and coming producers but is not well known outside Germany. Cost was about Euro 140-160 3 years ago from a local Munich watch seller in Schwabing - quite a few in the area. It has given no problems at all and still looks very modern.

Also, don't forget that you can get the value-added tax refunded in Germany, usually 10% of the price (the tax is actually 16%, but the refund is done through private companies, so you end up with around 10%). You'll need to ask for the tax-free forms at the shop when you buy.

Thanks a lot for all. I think that is better include Basel in the itinerary, just in case....Lilibel

This may still work: Go to a US Army post and visit the bookstore. They usually let anyone in there without ID. They have English guides on shopping in Germany...outlet malls, etc. We still have one from a trip in the late 80s. Worth a shot if you see a US installation that will let you get in.

Bob - I work for the Army in Wurezburg, Germany and I can tell you that security is very tight now. Not only do the guards have "state of the art" ID checks, but they search the cars coming in as well. At this time no one without a valid ID can get it!

We are retired military w/id card and on a recent trip we were unable to get on post, in some cases, never mind getting in to the PX or whatever.

Go to Bangkok, the best place in the world to buy Swiss watches.