There are many reasons behind wanderlusters’ endless thirst for travel. It may be the adrenaline-fuelled adventure they so badly crave, the effervescent art and exotic culture that is unlike anything they’ve experienced back home, or the exquisite cuisines alongside unique delicacies that satiate their hankerings. It could even be all of that combined.
There is that other thing that cannot be disregarded though, and it’s shopping. We all are probably guilty of it, and more importantly, we constantly relish in the pleasure it gives. This fulfilling experience then becomes all the more gratifying when when we have easy reach to unbeatable deals and elusive bargains while travelling.
Hitching a plane ride to another city simply for a five-day shopping spree is becoming increasingly common and accessible to many, so we’ve sussed out some the hottest shopping destinations within the Asian region for you to get planning right away. You don’t have to go that far, and we’ve even included accommodation options from HomeAway for you.
1. Singapore
Despite the increasingly disappointing currency exchange, our friendly neighbour Singapore is home to the Great Singapore Sale which occurs somewhere between June and August annually, whereby discounts can go up to 80% off. Aside from that, there are throngs of shopping malls and shopping streets, especially along the famed Orchard Road for more high-end offerings and the more budget-friendly Bugis area.
Where to stay:
Orchard – Oakwood Cosy Studio Apartment from RM1,274
Bugis – Cosy Retreat from RM439
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Call us mad but Bangkok is one shopping city we’ll never get tired of. The shopping experiences there extends beyond shopping malls such as Platinum Mall or Emporium as there are plenty of night markets nearby nearly every BTS Skytrain station; and let’s not even get started on the massive street markets like Chatuchak and Talad Rod Fai that always have you leaving with something you don’t actually need.
Where to stay:
Sukhumvit – Artsy Den from RM398
Silom – Stunning Studio from RM111
Siam – Panoramic Views of BKK from RM255
3. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Akin to the Great Singapore Sale is Malaysia’s 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival happening from June to August, but that aside, bargains are aplenty everywhere, even on off-peak periods throughout the year. In the heart of the city are major shopping malls housing high-end brands, high-street labels, small boutiques and more, as well as street markets all around with a slew of souvenirs and knock-offs, amongst others. It really just depends on what fits your fancy.
Where to stay:
Bukit Bintang – Executive 3-Bedroom Suite from RM650
Bangsar – Luxurious Studio from RM130
KLCC – Service Apartment Next to KLCC from RM300
4. Seoul, South Korea
Ain’t nobody travels to Seoul without an empty suitcase, because there are just that many things to look out for in this fashion and beauty trailblazer. There’s not just one, but multiple shopping districts to stop by, and it all boils down to what you’re looking for. Visit Myeongdong for multitudes of beauty products, Namdaemun Market for street fashion, local designer clothes at Common Ground, or traditional crafts at Samcheongdong.
Where to stay:
Myeongdong – White Contemporary House from RM766
Dongdaemun – Entire House from RM295
Hongdae – 3-Bedroom House from RM641
Gangnam – Little Cosy Apartment from RM299
5. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is undeniably one of the top trendsetting capitals of the world and you bet it makes a memorable city for the ultimate retail therapy. You can find anything you want here, from limited edition merchandises, offbeat clothing, traditional goods, luxury labels, adorable stationery you wouldn’t be able to resist, beauty products, and even abundant snacks. Into vintage items? Places like Shimokitazawa is fantastic for thrifting.
Where to stay:
Shibuya – Modern Japanese Home from RM1,181
Shinjuku – Spacious Apartment from RM348
Harajuku – HomeAway beside Fashion Street from RM467
Ginza – Colourful Studio Apartment from RM493
6. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei forever holds a special place in our hearts – you’ve got the gorgeous architecture, delicious street food, picturesque national parks all in one place, aside from it being a bargain hunter’s paradise of course. If shopping malls like Taipei 101 aren’t your jam, head on over to the countless night markets or wholesale markets available everywhere, especially at Ximending or Wu Fen Pu. Besides stalls, many independent retailers have little brick and mortar shops.
Where to stay:
Ximending – Ximen French House from RM226
Taipei 101 – Luxurious Home from RM499
7. Hong Kong
We know the Hong Kees have a bad rep for being impolite and rude, but don’t let that hinder you from stepping foot into all the malls and stores that are crammed into every space available. Whether it is designer bags, Chinese artwork or articles of clothing you’re after, Hong Kong literally has it all, regardless of your budget. Head to the Ladies’ Market for little souvenirs, Mongkok for affordable clothing, or the shopping malls for branded goods.
Where to stay:
Yau Ma Tei – 4-Bed Terrace from RM2,052
Causeway Bay – Newly Renovated Unit from RM656
