Shopping
is a serious hobby. Where better to practice your bargaining skills than Bali?
In Bali, unless the product is price-tagged, bargaining is the
"norm". Try not to accept the first price that you are given, as most
vendors add on anything between 30%-50% extra. You'll get more for your money,
if your prepared to spend time and smile whilst bargaining. Although tempting,
try not to make any major purchases for the first few days. Look around, take
your time, bargain hard and then buy.
Bali's
shopping centers and department stores are a wonderful place to start your Bali
shopping spree. Air-conditioned and free of hawkers, goods from all over
Indonesia are available at very reasonable prices. Many of the labels you see
here are not merely rip-offs, they are often produced under license in this
country and can therefore be sold at great savings. Even brand name cosmetics
can be bought at excellent prices as they attract little duty in Indonesia.
Shoes and children's clothes are always a great buy in Bali's departments
stores, the quality and variety attract many shoppers and the prices are hard
to beat.
Ladies
and Men's fashions range from cheap and tacky to well made local and
international designer labels, the canny shopper will always find something to
suit. The major problem with shopping in Bali is trying to find bigger sizes.
This is still a frustration for many westerners, although things are improving.
Luggage,
accessories, sporting goods, toys and games, crockery and household goods are
all good buys also.
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