Ready, Set, Shop: Your Ultimate Guide To Shopping Sales Around Asia

For the most part, shopping in Asia can be a real bargain, but only if you know what to expect and when to expect it. Immerse yourself in the wonderful culture of Asia through some retail therapy or leisure shopping without breaking the bank.

Here’s our top destinations. 

Singapore

The Lion’s Share of Shopping 

The city becomes a huge market place during the Great Singapore Sale. From clothes and jewelry, to toys and electronics, shoppers are pampered with vast choices at affordable prices, with items often at 70% off!

No Singapore shopping experience is complete without exploring the infamous Orchard Road. It’s the ultimate shopping destination if you’re looking for quality, luxury products. Want to purchase your first designer bag? You may opt to visit Paragon Shopping Center, which houses luxury brands like Gucci, Marc Jacobs, and Coach. If you’re more into vintage finds, Haji Lane is the place for you. 

South Korea

A Tourist’s Shopping Haven

Korea’s four distinct seasons—Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter —are usually marked by end-of-season sales up to 70% off, and are participated mostly by main department stores and shopping centers. A definite tourist hotspot, Myeongdong is the go-to place for skincare and cosmetics. Another place worth checking out is the Lotte Department Store where you can conveniently get a tax refund for your purchases. Look out for huge discounts from your favorite brands, which usually roll around December. 

From January 16 to February 29, 2020, get ready as the Korean Grand sale will take place. Targeting mainly foreign tourists, this shopping festival features nationwide sales, discounts and other perks in shopping, flight, accommodations, entertainment, and food and beverage. 

Malaysia

More Deals for You 

The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival is one of the three highly anticipated shopping events in the country. Kicking off the carnival is The Luxury Shopping Experience campaign by The Melium Group, which coincides with the end-of-season sales of international luxury brands. Visit Pavilion KL - located along Bukit Bintang with 450 shops, spread over seven retail levels - for high-end brands like Chopard, Yves Saint Laurent, and Versace, among others.

Thailand

Best of the Bargains 

Thailand is at the top of every bargain-hunter’s list of favorite places to visit as the wares are beautiful – and affordable! Visit during the Thailand Grand Sale, and enjoy further slashed prices and discounts of up to 80%! The annual shopathon is spread all across the country, covering most Thai tourist destinations namely Bangkok, Phuket, Chiangmai, Hat Yai, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Pattaya.

Where to head for the best deals? The Siam area is Bangkok’s most famous retail district that houses Siam Paragon and Siam Center. These are directly linked to Central World, the country’s largest mall. Smaller malls that are worth exploring are Erawan and Gaysorn, especially if you love designer goods. For a bargain, head to Amarin Plaza.

Japan

Fashion Finds For Everyone

Let’s get this out of the way: it’s comparably more expensive to shop in Japan. But for the best deals, you just need to know the right time and place; you’ll be surprised at the amazing picks you’ll find at reasonable prices. The biggest sales in Japan are usually held during the summer and winter months.

For the fashion-forward, the Tokyo neighborhood brims with eclectic finds, with every shop and stall meeting the different tastes of the diverse crowds. Ginza is the affluent shopping district, home to the city’s most posh boutiques and department stores; while Asakusa is more laid-back, a place where you can purchase souvenir trinkets. The Shibuya and Harajuku districts are a must-visit for the younger lot who’s seeking more trendy pieces. 

*** 

Plan ahead and schedule your trips to these shopping capitals and indulge in some retail therapy without burning a hole in your wallet. As you hit the shops, bring your BDO Credit Card with you. It’s the card for jet-setting wise-spenders like you. Take advantage of exclusive privileges, special offers, and earn credit card points every time you use your BDO Credit Card! Plus, you also have the option to enjoy lighter payments with low interest rates when you convert your transactions to installment through the BDO EasyPay Convert program.

Not yet a BDO Credit Cardholder? Apply now and avail of exciting deals here and abroad!

For more information on BDO Credit Cards, click here.