Shopping in Shenzhen and DongGuan...

      Shopping in Luohu shopping complex in ShenZhen was an amazing experience. There are multi-levels of shops in one building allowing one to shop till you drop mainly for clothings, shoes, accessories and electronic goods.  "Knock off" goods of popular brand names and prices are also available.   
      Although the prices are incredibly cheap, please do not feel embarrassed to start haggling at least 50% off the tagged price. No, I am not kidding because the vendors expect customers to haggle prices anyway. That is why all prices are marked up at least 50% to 70% of the actual selling price. Therefore, you have nothing to lose, just counter offer the price that you want to pay. If they refuse, just walk away and don't be surprised if they will call you back and give you what you bargain for (more than 80% of the time, they will).
      My bargaining technique had saved me some money. For example: I saw a pair of embroidery bedroom slippers tagged at RMB$68 but after using my haggling skill, I bought 2 pairs at RMB$50 instead. Also, I got an iphone cover at RMB$10 when it was tagged at RMB$35...go figure. It might be a hassle to haggle for every item but it can be satisfactory when you pay money for the value and I assure you that every experience is a new experience. Have fun!

Picture 1 (across from Parkview Hotel)

Picture 2

     In ChangAn, DongGuan is a totally different experience. The goods are not priced as crazy as in ShenZhen. In fact, prices are fixed in most departmental stores. However, in some shops, you can still bargain to get a better deal. The best shopping is not in the shopping mall like the one in picture 1 but the street about two blocks on the left from Parkview Hotel. See picture 2 below, at the end of this path and you will find shops at both sides of the street.


      Overall, DongGuan and ShenZhen are not only famous places for its shops and food but also their body/foot massage services. No city in Asia can beat their prices for such quality services. I am not sure about you but I am definitely going back for more!