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Hong Kong Shopping

You may think shopping in Hong Kong is similar to shopping in other large and highly populated cities. do not forget the Asian charm and the way old and new mix in this unusual city. Hong Kong shopping is unique.

Shopping in Nathan Road

Along the main thoroughfare in Kowloon stretches Hong Kong's must-see shopping lane - Nathan Road. Bounded by Boundary Street in the north and Salisbury Road to the south, this hundred fifty year-old section is framed above by neon lights in true Hong Kong style.

Named after the former British governor, Sir Matthew Nathan, in 1909, the area was the northern limit of the colony prior to the signing of the 100-year New Territories lease in 1898. Even before being returned to the administration of the PRC government, there remained few reminders of the colonial past. The hustle of a typical Hong Kong market had long before replaced any stately British influence.

Today, Nathan Road is one of Hong Kong's busiest commercial areas. At the lower end is the Golden Mile section, a name no longer much in use. Here are the shops topped by neon signs prominent in so many photos of the district.

Naturally, the bartering is intense and tourists should be cautious not to get 'a deal' that turns out to be slightly less than was explained. But bargaining with the native shopkeepers is all part of the fun of shopping in Hong Kong.

Crowded with visitors, you'll find a huge variety of goods for sale. Some of the cheapest cameras, camcorders, and watches anywhere in Asia line the shelves. But sometimes cheap means inexpensive and other times it simply means, well, cheap. Buyer beware.

Besides consumer electronics goods are boutiques, perfume shops, restaurants, and street vendors of every shape and color. If you just have to buy a pair of shoes at midnight, Nathan Road is your destination. If you want that hand bag that is available nowhere else at a price you can't believe, this is the spot.

Jade, of course, is a staple of the area. The Jade Market is up Nathan Road to Kansu Street in the Yau Ma Tei area. There are ornaments, jewelry, and even raw jade for sale.

There's even a Dutch South African camera shop for those who want to bargain with a native who is a native of another country. Formerly called Van Der Merwe, it now goes by the name P.C. Cheng (Koos). Located at No. 2 Humphreys, just look for the South African flag hanging outside.

Take a break from the frenetic shopping experience and visit nearby Kowloon Park. Take in the minarets outside the Jamia Masjid India Mosque, a local Chinese Muslim gathering place. Have some lunch at one of the many tiny shops selling beef noodles. Or, if you prefer, try one of the Nepalese or Pakistani restaurants that dot the streets.

Even if it's only for the pleasure of people watching and delighting in the dancing lights on the harbor at night, Nathan Road is an excellent attraction to add to your Hong Kong vacation.

Shopping in Stanley Market

For a slightly quieter shopping experience than Nathan Road head over from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island and visit Stanley Market.

Open only during normal business hours, Stanley hosts a wide variety of handicrafts, souvenirs and even a few designer labels. But there are also restaurants and bars and a stroll along the relaxing beach is not out of the question after a hot day of shopping.

Once a quiet fishing village, you can still see evidence of its past in the many paintings of sailing junks set against recognizable backdrops.

Chinese artwork, collectibles, silk... whatever you may be in the market for, you'll find. Jade, of course, is frequently sought after and available here in abundance.

Wherever you go to shop in Hong Kong, whether on the island or Kowloon or elsewhere, be prepared for crowds and (in the summer) hot and humid weather. Hong Kong is a vibrant, bustling metropolis with small oases of tranquility. A little flexibility and a willingness not to take it very seriously goes a long way here.

To find one of those little oases, stop in at one of the many small temples and enjoy a few minutes of quiet between bouts of bargaining. The Tin Hau, honoring the goddess of the sea, is a good bet. Built in 1767, visitors can step in and see the genuine tiger skin and smell some relaxing incense.

While in the area, check out the Hong Kong Maritime Museum housed in Murry House. Constructed from a hundred-year-old building moved brick by brick, the museum holds over 500 exhibits of ancient pottery. There are also interactive games and displays showing Hong Kong's historical connection to the sea.

Still in evidence are the remnants of British Colonial rule, and the navy that enforced it. But much farther back the Hakka called Hong Kong home and their history is recorded, as well.

Next to Murray House there's even a shopping arcade and a community theater, and every Christmas Stanley Plaza hosts a free concert by the Hong Kong International School Band.

Then head out for more shopping where you can find toys, ornaments, and crafts made by the locals. Unlike Nathan Road, the area is frequented as much by locals as by the tourists (at least on the weekends). As with other shopping experiences in Hong Kong, visitors need to be prepared to bargain. It's expected and great deals can be had for those willing to haggle.

Getting to Stanley is simple via the bus. No. 6 from Exchange Square in Central is one easy route, but be prepared for a lengthy ride. Ride on the top of one of the double-deckers and enjoy the view of Repulse Bay as you go. For a quicker ride, take the MTR subway to Chai Wan Station and catch the No. 16M.