Bargain hunting around the world

This shopping season, we’re not getting limited by our tiny island! Here are the top cities with the best bargains to stretch your tourist dollar

What’s better than travelling? I think it’s got to be finding unbelievable bargains while exploring new cities!

You probably already know about shopping havens such as Bangkok and Milan. Take your dollar to these lesser-known retail epicentres instead, and you might just discover the perfect cure to this season’s shopping fever.

Florence, Italy

Europe may not be a destination that comes to mind when you think of bargains but things are a bit different in Florence. By European standards, goods here are really value for money, whether you’re hitting independent shops in markets or department stores.

Take your pick from streets upon streets of quality Italian leather goods here. Main thoroughfares include Via del Corso and Piazza del Duomo, and even the touristy San Lorenzo market. Don’t pass up on the little alleys of stores that snake between the main belts – you might be able to snag a good steal on shoes, handbags, perfumes, clothes and jewellery.

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40% off on designer fragrances at Via del Corso[/su_note]

Sao Paulo, Brazil

Granted, most people wouldn’t travel to Sao Paulo, Brazil just to shop. But while you’re in town for football and sightseeing, why not add some excitement by hunting for deals? Sao Paulo is home to malls stocked full of great finds of the season’s hottest looks.

You’d want to check out SP Market, an outlet mall that takes a handsome 50 per cent or more off regular retail prices. For wholesale hauls, head to Rua José Paulino and Rua 25 de Março in Centro. And don’t shun the upscale fashion district of Jardins – the streets here conceal boutiques that are known to offer affordable yet superior goods!

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Leather stilettos from US$20 at Rua José Paulino[/su_note]

Shenzhen, China

Hong Kong may be the ruling shopper’s paradise in this region, but its neighbouring city of Shenzhen isn’t so far behind. Be spoilt for choice with scores of cheap clothes and electronics that you can purchase without worrying about flouting international trademark laws.

See a cute bag you like at a reasonable price? Don’t reach for your wallet yet – you can knock at least 25 per cent off the price tag! Hotspots in Shenzhen include Luo Hu Commercial City and Dongmen Shopping Street for fashion items; Seg Electronics Market for tech finds; and Da Fen Art Village for craft treasures.

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Leather handbags from US$10 at Luo Hu Commercial City[/su_note]

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Many of us may be familiar with Malaysia’s favourite fashion son, Jimmy Choo, who rolls out superbly-elegant footwear. This time, try heading straight for the artist’s possible heir apparent. Jimmy’s favourite mentee designer, Fion Poon, hawks her charming high-fashion batik designs at Central Market.

Or why not make a beeline for exotic finds like stingray clutches in Mid Valley Megamall? Also, for techno-philes, get your fix at a fraction of Singapore’s prices at Low Yat Plaza – it’s like Sim Lim Square but way cheaper (and considerably more scandal-free).

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RM25 cocktail dresses at Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall[/su_note]

Hoi An, Vietnam

Often considered the shopping capital of Vietnam, Hoi An is home to countless shops and markets, where you can get high-quality tailor-made outfits cheap.

Ever spotted a designer shirt in a magazine you’d love to have, or have a favourite piece of clothing you want to duplicate? Just come to Hoi An armed with photos or outfits, and you could walk away with a whole new wardrobe.

The best tailors can be found near the Central Market and the Japanese Bridge.

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Bespoke leather shoes from US$20 at a tailor[/su_note]

By Pamela Chow