Chinatown

I have to say that I enjoyed Chinatown as much or more than anything else in NYC. It is very exciting to me and combines a number of elements: shopping, travel, intrigue, shopping, bargains, culture, danger, shopping . . . need I say more.

Now that I'm 'experienced' (three trips under my belt), I think I can give a few tips to NYC purse shoppers.

• you don't have to buy the first purse you see - there will always be more!



• don't be afraid to 'follow' the whisperers - just stay in a group



• listen to the whispers - gucci - prada - coach . . .



• the guys with the pictures are the ones with the real counterfeit products - bigger names and prices



• don't think the 'whisperers' are the only ones with the 'hidden' stores - many of the stores have hidden backdoors



• if you want Tiffany jewelry - ask for it. They'll get it. Last year, they took me to the back of the store where they brought out trays from behind curtains. This year, when I said I wanted earrings, the man whistled and a girl appeared who began to pull zip-loc bags of earrings out of her bra! Just ask and you'll receive.



• we found a little 'mall' that wandered in an L-shape that had many booths and very good products and prices. I got a Dooney and Bourke giraffe bag - very nice - for $21 - I know it's fake but a very good one!



• There is more to Chinatown than just Canal street - keep walking!



• If it's rainy - they will bargain with you much more to keep business going.