Best buys in Vietnam

Shopping on holiday is not only fun, but a great way to take away a little piece of treasure from your destination. Vietnam is one huge shopping arena, with bargains galore on every other street. Some areas of Vietnam specialize in a particular type of product, so it is worth taking time to compare prices and see the whole range.

The best bets in Vietnam are handicrafts, war souvenirs, clothing, jewellery and art. Shoppers should avoid imported brand name clothing, electronics and perfume, as these items are more expensive in Vietnam than neighboring countries.

Buying art and antiques is a risky business, aside from the strict regulations regarding their export, most pieces are fakes or reproductions. Shoppers should ask to see a certificate if a dealer claims an item is an authentic piece.

Many female visitors get measured up for the traditional costume of Vietnam called ‘ao dai’. This makes a fantastic souvenir, and the skilled tailors will create a gown that fits you like a dream. Gemstones are also a great buy, and are found at large retailers as well as independent outlets.

Unfortunately most of the war paraphernalia are fake reproductions. You can still find some quality items but be wary of vendors selling ‘authentic’ goods at steep prices, as their authenticity is usually highly questionable.

A wide variety of handicrafts can be found in shops, markets and stores throughout Vietnam. The range usually includes laquerware, wooden goods, bamboo products and leatherworks. If you are looking for ethnic minority handicrafts, Hanoi is the best place to shop as it is close to the villages where the goods are crafted.