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If you’ve read ‘Manic in the Malls’ you’ll know that I’m not a fan of shopping. But here’s where I’ll turn the tables- I LOVE TO SHOP!

Night Market Vientiane Laos

The variables in a shopping environment are key for both retailers and consumers. I like the relaxed feel, earthy colours if possible, and most importantly, personality in the surroundings. If the store is actually a tarp spread out on a dusty ground, even better-I hate the feeling of four walls and too much stuff to look at. A good deal, an initial need or desire for the product and anything that simply makes me feel ultra good, are all factors too.

Although many of the tourism pamphlets for Kuala Lumpur list multiple malls as the best places to buy gifts, I figured all the material items would be similar to stuff at home. Street markets were the definitely the way to go. Twenty bonus points for Fiona as right around the corner from my funky hostel (The Explorers Guesthouse) was ‘Petaling Street’-the zone in Chinatown stuffed with market stalls and people bargaining hard over every ringgit.

Petaling Street entrance Kuala Lumpur

The atmospheric frenzy of street markets!

Market Stall stock

Even if you’re not into shopping, the entertainment of people watching in areas like this, is fabulous. Shopkeepers stand over their tables of knock off perfumes and purses, re-arranging stock and hoping to catch the eye of a passing tourist. Of course, most sellers are not the shy type waiting for buyers to come to them. Imagine an overly energetic voice that stands out from the regular conversations and shouts within the market.

Have you seen the different sunglasses I have? You’re such a pretty girl that I’ll give you my lowest possible price, unlike the other stores…such poor quality stuff they have too. My gear is authentic, nothing fake here. Oh wow, if you had these glasses you would exactly like JLo! Or would you layer on the makeup and go for a Gaga look? I bet your mother would look like your sister wearing these ones. You are from Europe? Let me guess, UK?

All said without any interaction from me.

The steps involved in successful bargaining are pretty important. The look-walk-offer-walk-negotiate rule has always been a winner for me. For my first stroll through the area, I get an initial base offer for items I’m interested in, but nothing more. I then decide what my own set price is. My second tour which can either be 10 minutes later or the next day, will involve an offer that’s usually one quarter of the asking price. THIS is where the game playing really begins. I walk away expressing no interest, only to be turned around by the seller with a counter offer. The biggest rule of thumb is to not budge from your own set price. Be fair and think about the value of the product and the possible cut for the seller. A 25 cent equivalent is not worth haggling over.

Sharpen your bargaining skills at every opportunity!

Stanley Market Hong Kong

Kuching's Jln India 'high street'

On this shopping adventure I only walked away with a couple of items, (2 bottles of perfume and a leather bag!) but I did watch many other tourists stocking up on everything in sight. It was frustrating to hear some of them not even bother with any negotiating-it’s expected! I suppose if they didn’t do their research, they don’t need to concern themselves with paying 3 or 4 times more than anybody else.

Another prime shopping spot in Kuala Lumpur is called ‘Central Market’. With street musicians nestled in between rolling carts of sashes and handbags, the outdoor area is easy to get caught up in. And if it happens to be a rainy day, your shopping plans won’t be rained out. I have no idea what you call their uniquely pointed roof, but it certainly fits in with the artistic feel from the shops and people. If you are an art deco fan, then a visit to the main building (which is a heritage site) is a no brainer. Though the market originated in 1888 as a wet market, the current building was first constructed in 1937. The white geometric patterns surrounding the doorways and windows are emphasized with the baby blue walls; all a visual treat to take in. Once inside, the art and handicraft products are immediately beside and above you. Though I didn’t buy anything, I certainly felt as though I had more of an insight into the cultural differences of the various races in Malaysia-simply through browsing through the shops!

Kuala Lumpur

Central Market Kuala Lumpur

Central Market Kuala Lumpur

I have enjoyed market shopping in most places I have visited. In Vientiane-Laos, it was the night market that took the crown. Setup beside the Mekong River, every night, the locals and tourists share a space and create a buzz of energy that is replicated nowhere else. I tucked some jewelry and t-shirts into my pack after some very polite and respectable negotiating. Another ‘market’ in town is called the ‘Morning Market’ (I guess the ‘Afternoon Market’ is next on the development list!) Although filled with many many cheap treats to negotiate over, it is actually located in a dated mall. I did visit and I did buy, but I sure wish the variety of stock had been available in the night market.

Kota Kinabalu also had a great markets to roam through. The Filipino Market has rows upon rows of mini stores offering pearls (not sure how authentic they are…) seashell crafts and bamboo goods. With such narrow walkways I felt a great need to cling tightly to my bag, as within most markets. Squeezing past other shoppers and retailers while looking about at the overloaded amount of goods is a prime pickpocketing space. I luckily left with everything I had arrived with, plus a few tacky magnets and pens for friends. The Filipino Market is sandwiched between the night market (best fresh food and drink in town!) and the Central Market (aimed more at locals as the stalls are filled with grocery items….and some amazing fresh fruit. So yeah, Kota Kinabalu is definitely a market town!

Filipino Market Kota Kinabalu

Central Market Kota Kinabalu

Central/Night Market Kota Kinabalu

Part of my love for market shopping originates from my years living in England. High streets and weekend markets fight against the suburban shopping malls, but the outdoor stretches of pedestrianized areas along the high street add so much character. I guess I feel like less of a shopping drone if I can see a real life tree or a quick walking route home.

As this entry has turned into a summary of what I do love about shopping, I can’t forget to mention the markets of Hong Kong. Stanley had a great walking section of storefronts, as did many of the streets in Kowloon. Shopping never dominates my travels, but it certainly is a highlight. It’s an opportunity to understand more of the culture I am visiting through product and people watching. I can see what the locals are after, I can see how the artisans present their wares, and I can be creative with gift giving and filling my apartment with more stuff. The next plan is to either upgrade to a bigger place or cut down my travelling (yeah right!)….but I’m certainly not going to cut down my shopping excursions-it’s part of the joy of travel!