Boring Hong Kong

For me, shopping in Hong Kong is boring since I am not into branded items and the normal brand is a bit expensive for my budget since is not very unique or trendy. Cannot give me a "WOW" feeling. However, it's very convenient to move around with KCR due to its clear signage and English words too. A good place to enjoy the great scenery at harbor in Central or Victoria Peak or fun in Disney world. Shopping is a no-no, in my opinion only. Good Luck.

Quick Tips:

Best Way To Get Around:

Best way to get around in Mongkok is to walk or use the KCR/ MRT. Just follow the instructions and you will not be lost. Look for the Board with instructions. Easily spotted at the station.

When I browse through the Internet looking for an affordable yet comfortable hotel (not hostel) I was worried since most of the hotels there charged around RM500 and above, even the not so great hotel/hostel is expensive. Therefore I have opted for Dragon Hostel at around RM135 net per night. The location is great since there is easy access to Mongkok Train Station. However, if you have the stamina, you can simply walk to Temple Street, it takes maybe around 30 minutes. The shops nearby are mostly electrical items or handphones and sport wear. Not much of modern lady wears unless you are looking for branded lady clothing. The hostel is close to the famous Langham Palace.

However, do not expect much from the accommodation. It is quite noisy since it is a flat converted into hostel in a building with another hostel. However, the staff are helpful and friendly. So if you are on budget this is the best option. The picture shown in www.hostels.com shows true picture. The size of the room is hardly enough for Asian. But as I said, Hong Kong accommodation is simply too expensive. And don't forget to bring your own shampoo and soap since they are not provided. You have to get the towels from the "reception area."

People said Ladies' Market has a wide range of trendy clothes, etc. The first impression from me is like " huh? That's it?" It's not very big if compared to Bangkok's shopping area like Pratunam or Cha Tu Chak, or even Lumpini night market, and the items there are quite boring. Since I am an Asian, I simply am not interested in those cheongsam or ornaments. Besides, it's not cheap. Malaysia is even cheaper. And the clothes there are so outdated and the price, as I said earlier, is not cheap. Once again, I have to remind you that I am Malaysian; therefore, I compare the price with price in Malaysia, and the items are all like clones. Not much variety, some wigs, accessories, underwear, outdated clothes and shoes, toys, and some miscellaneous items. Two words: boring and expensive.

Nearby, they've got lots of shops selling sports wear and electrical items. And the electrical items, though more advance, are again more expensive than in Malaysia. This, or around Mongkok area, is just not my ideal shopping place.

Though nearby there are two- or three-story commercial buildings with lots of modern ladies' clothings. However, the price is not cheap and not that trendy also, but compared to ladies' market or shops around Mongkok, is the best choice. I think one and only shopping complex with variety for trendy but not branded clothes. A good place just to browse and pick up some somewhat acceptable bargains. You can't miss it since is near dragon hostel and there are displays of clothes on the first floor windows.

From Mongkok station, you can take the kcr/mrt to Yaumatei and, from there, road signage directs your there, or you can simply walk around 30 minutes to Temple street from Mongkok. Along the walk, you can see assorted clothes shops like In Trend with modern clothings but not cheap prices, some small supermarket like JUSCO, $10-worth of browsing or small shopping complex selling animation/collection toys, etc.

The price for items like accessories is cheaper in Temple Street than in the Ladies' Market, but somewhat limited selection. Even if I want to elaborate, I cannot think of anything more amazing to write. Well, stalls selling sex toys are numerous and some miscellaneous items like binoculars, jades, etc. But for sure the overall price for the items there are cheaper though not sure about the quality. A good place just to browse around if nothing better to do.

Overall, I think this place is the best place to shop compared to other shopping places in Mongkok area. There are street vendors at Aplieu St. selling electrical stuff, food, clothes, etc. The food there is cheaper too.

There is a Shopping mall called Dragon City with seven or eight story buildings. Inside there are places for massages (try the massage in bed for 30 minutes at HK$10 only. Great value for money), shops selling clothes and accessories with reasonable price. The clothes there can't be called trendy but definitely the variety is there. A great place to shop.

Around Aplieu Street, there are rows of shops selling clothes wholesale. But one can pick up great bargain with some of the items they want to clear away. The majority is outdated but it makes it even better when you are able to find a great buy whereby the price is at $20 and the item still look sexy and trendy and in good shape. Rare, but the chance is there. Just pick up your stamina and browse. Good Luck.