Aduchamp1

Just a thought.

There is a great independent book store in NYC called The Strand. They actually have knowledgable adults and discounted prices. B & H is the largest independent camera store in New York (maybe the US) and it also has knowledgable adults and the prices are extremely competitive.

So besides the prices, you have people who know of what they speak. In my experience is that is rarely the case at chain stores.

I am not a clothes shopper, so they may be different.

baldrick

Thanks, Aduchamp1
A visit to B+H is planned the first morning of arrival!

doug_stallings

Unless you arrive on Saturday. They are closed on Saturday, though J&R is open and also has pretty good prices.

sf7307

The people who work in the stores that are owned by "some corporation" are also local residents, who are earning a living by working in the "corporate" stores. I like independent stores because they often carry goods that aren't sold in chain stores.

Aduchamp1

B & H is also closed on Friday afternoons and on the major Jewish holidays.

I usually do not disagree with Doug, but I have had nothing but unpleasant dealings with J & R and I worked downtown for 30 yerars. I even went back after 9/11 as some sort of patriotic duty and things had not changed. They have a dismissive and arrogant staff especially in their computer department and an onerous return policy.
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The chain stores that I see hire usually hire part time people, save the manager, while the profits go elsewhere.

Aduchamp1

By the way, do you know what grey goods are? It is camera and electronics equipment that does not have a USA warrantee but a valid manufacturer's warrantee where you are responsible for the shipping or delivery to have it repaired or replaced. Since you live outside the US, it might advantageous for you because grey goods are cheaper.