Gary Krist is the author of "Buy, Buy Shanghai," a feature story in the March issue of Traveler which recounts his search for the perfect anniversary gift for his wife. Here, he offers another insider tidbit on where to snag some designer frames.
In a city known for good deals, some items stand out as particular bargains, including freshwater pearls, custom-made clothing, and, of course, counterfeit copies of everything from designer handbags to computer software (remember that such products violate intellectual property rights and may be seized by U.S. Customs). My vote for biggest bargain in town, though, goes to prescription eyeglasses.
Behind Shanghai Railway Station metro stop is a hard-to-find underground mall containing scores of tiny optician stalls where you can get glasses while you wait for under $40 (under $30 if you bargain energetically). I visited them one morning with my American prescription in hand and had a delightful time sipping tea and making (largely pantomimed) conversation with a sales clerk while her colleagues located lenses of the proper strength, ground them to fit the frames I chose, and had them tinted for sunglasses. Total expenditure: about 45 minutes and 270Y ($40), much cheaper than back home. To find the place, take the metro to Shanghai Railway Station and follow the little blue signs to Sanye Wholesale Eyeglass Bazaar.
Photo: Justin Guariglia. For more photos from the story, check out our Shanghai photo gallery.
In a city known for good deals, some items stand out as particular bargains, including freshwater pearls, custom-made clothing, and, of course, counterfeit copies of everything from designer handbags to computer software (remember that such products violate intellectual property rights and may be seized by U.S. Customs). My vote for biggest bargain in town, though, goes to prescription eyeglasses. Behind Shanghai Railway Station metro stop is a hard-to-find underground mall containing scores of tiny optician stalls where you can get glasses while you wait for under $40 (under $30 if you bargain energetically). I visited them one morning with my American prescription in hand and had a delightful time sipping tea and making (largely pantomimed) conversation with a sales clerk while her colleagues located lenses of the proper strength, ground them to fit the frames I chose, and had them tinted for sunglasses. Total expenditure: about 45 minutes and 270Y ($40), much cheaper than back home. To find the place, take the metro to Shanghai Railway Station and follow the little blue signs to Sanye Wholesale Eyeglass Bazaar.
Photo: Justin Guariglia. For more photos from the story, check out our Shanghai photo gallery.
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I m shanghainess,shanghai is a historical city. U will find its fascinating when u visit it, especially in LongTong-an old and landmark architecture in SH!