Notes » Stanley's Treasures
Notes » June 2004
Stanley's Treasures
I love Stanley Market.
Some Hong Kongers would tell you it's nothing but a tourist trap, but they'd be wrong. It depends on what you want to buy.
Stanley Market has something for everyone, whether it be luggage, handbags, shirts, pants, shoes or swim wear, and that's but a sample of the goods sold there.
Bargaining is expected at trinket and souvenir shops, where prices are set higher, but great deals can be had on clothing. I often trip over fantastic bargains when I'm not searching for any particular garment.
I bought several 100% linen Tommy Bahama camp shirts, which would go for US$80 each in North American stores, for US$12.69 apiece. They weren't seconded, flawed or damaged; they were end-of-run. Instead of shelling out $400, I paid a little over $60.
The market isn't the sole reason to visit, however. It's easy to be blinded by the merchandise and miss Stanley's numerous attractions; many tourists do. They'll have a meal in one of the abundant restaurants, yet overlook the historical significance of the area. Even the three nearby beaches go unnoticed.
An afternoon could be spent wandering the streets to touch the past in places such as Stanley Military Cemetery, the Old Stanley Police Station, the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum, Murray House and the major Tin Hau temple, to name a few.
I recommend it, because you'll come away richer for the experience than for the money you'll save.
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