THOSE shopping on a budget this Christmas season need not look further than Divisoria.
The place has it all – clothes, shoes, accessories, toys, home decors, kitchenware, tools, fruits, vegetables, name it, it’s there.
You just have to know where to look, of course.
The best thing about it is that most of these items are way cheaper than those sold in high-end malls.
But beware. Among the cornucopia of goodies are fakes and some could actually be risky and are health hazards.
Then there are the pickpockets and muggers.
No doubt, shopping in Divisoria is not for the fainthearted but then again, you could do well to prepare.
Here are some tips:
Gear up
If you can, don’t bring your car as traffic in the area is bad what with numerous stalls lining the streets.
If ever, park it at a considerable distance and make sure it’s safe. We suggest doing so at Tutuban Shopping Center or Lucky Chinatown.
Make a list
Have a shopping list ready before you go to Divisoria. Knowing what to buy saves you time.
Get comfortable
Also, make sure to wear comfy clothes and shoes.
Avoid brandishing your cell phones as with your wallet. The less conspicuous you are, the more thieves won’t make you a target.
Plan your route
Print or download a map of the area. Knowing the routes to more known shopping bazaars in Divisoria including 168 Mall, 999 Mall, Divisoria Mall, Tutuban Shopping Center, and the Juan Luna Shopping Mall, makes getting there easier.
Know where to go for what
Divisoria experts source their stuff away from these malls, however.
They locate lesser-known areas in and around Divisoria for specific goods.
Looking for ready-made clothes, uniforms, curtains, cloth, denim, slippers, shoes, kitchenware? Go to Recto Avenue.
For fishing supplies, umbrellas, upholstery products, leather goods, faux flowers replete with ceramic or glass vase, and printing paper, go to Juan Luna Street.
For made-to-order corporate giveaways, souvenir items, plaques, greeting cards, party goods, wigs, costumes, and pillowcases, go to Tabora Street.
Meanwhile, Ylaya Street and Yangco Market offer the cheapest kind of quality fabrics, bed sheets, table covers, gowns, barongs, denims, rainwear and shoes of all types.
Last but not the least, haggle, haggle, haggle. (NEIL RAMOS)
