Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Shopping in Bandung

Bandung is well known for its cool climate, food and numerous factory outlets. Bandung is also known as Paris van Java. Visiting Bandung without ever going to one of the many factory outlets is like eating chocolate without the chocolate, having a romantic dinner without your partner and so on. So, make sure that you drop in on one of the many factory outlets (FO) scattered across this beautiful city!

Rumah Mode is one of the biggest FO in town consisting of various branded clothes for all ages! Don't be alarmed if you can't get inside. It's usually packed during the weekends and holidays. Why is that? Because, it only takes about 2 hours to get there! That's why. Trust me, I go there a lot! Why is that? My family lives in Bandung.

Just to give a glimpse of what you will be facing once you arrive in one of the FOs. For example, Esprit blouse for Rp 70,000, Nike swimsuit for Rp 50,000, Abercombie jogging pant for Rp 60,000, Oakley sunglasses for Rp. 75,000 and lots more. But, don't be surprise to see the label marked "MADE IN HONG KONG" or "MADE IN CHINA".

FOs on Jalan (street) Dago, Martadinata and Setiabudi are the best. Try going to Cihampelas Street. Cihampelas street is actually the first FO in Bandung. If you are looking for a "non-branded" jeans and t-shirts, then, this is the right place. The best thing about Cihampelas is the lay out. On both sides of the main street you will see numerous shops selling their goods. You’ll find jeans, shoes, food and leather. The other unique thing is, the place is packed with cartoon and super hero figures. There's Batman, Superman, Spiderman, Ali Baba and King Kong. You have to come and see it yourself.

Othe FOs that you should see is on Dago Street called Up Town Factory diagonal from Kartika Sari (a bakery shop that sells the greatest brownies I've ever tasted!). Try visiting www.kodilcorp.com. The web is still developing, but you'll get some great ideas on where to stay the night, shop, eat and many more.

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