REVIEWS OF HOTEL EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGES, KIDS CLUBS AND MORE.
If you are visiting Yangon soon, shopping is probably at the top of your list. And while most tourists are often focused on buying handcrafts, souvenirs, and other traditional items, you might also want to check out some of the city’s best fake markets.
This is where you will find imitation products of high-end brands. For example, if you are looking for a handbag that looks like Dior, Nike shoes, or even high-end perfumes and accessories, these are places where you can find them.
They are not the original products, but their make and style usually mimic the originals. You might even find some items with logos.
This is one of the most famous markets in Yangon. It was built during British rule and is located right in the centre of the city. At first glance, Bogyoke Market looks like a place for art, jewellery, and souvenirs, and yes, it has all of that. But as you continue walking around and browsing inside, you will see shops selling "branded" handbags, clothes, shoes, and watches.
These shops don’t say the word “fake”, but if you know your luxury brands well, you will notice the similarities in items. Prices also vary. They may be higher than other items, but nothing close to the real products. Most of these items come from neighbouring countries like Thailand or China, and the quality can be surprisingly good.
Chinatown in Yangon is one of the most lively, crowded, and noisy parts of the city, filled with food stalls, gold shops, and wholesale markets. It is also a great spot for finding cheap goods, including fake or copied products. It is located on 19th Street and 26th Street, where you will find many small shops selling shoes, clothes, electronics, and watches that look very much like popular international brands.
Fake Nike sneakers, Adidas tracksuits, Apple AirPods, and Samsung phones are just some of the common things you will see here. The prices are low, and the quality ranges. Since the sellers are mostly dealing with locals, they don’t try to overcharge tourists too much, but a little bargaining can still go a long way.
After all the shopping, you can try out the different local street food and just enjoy the bustling scene. The best time to visit is during the evening, as this is when the night market comes alive with more vendors and even larger crowds.
In almost every busy street in Yangon, especially near train stations, bus terminals, and outside markets, you will see small vendors selling everything from sunglasses to headphones to watches. Some of them carry their goods in small bags and only lay them out when they see interested buyers.
These items are often fake or copy versions of famous brands. Some of the watches have logos like Casio or G-Shock. The sunglasses may say Ray-Ban or Oakley. The phone chargers and earphones are often labelled “Samsung” or “Apple”. But don't fall for it. Most of them are not original.
Exploring these markets can be a lot of fun, but remember that not everything is fake. The items are typically mixed with other authentic products, allowing you to select exactly what you need. If you are looking for a fake designer bag, some "Adidas" trainers, or perfumes or jewellery that look like designers, do your inspections thoroughly.
Check the materials and stitching, and be cautious when testing perfumes or skin products on your skin. Make sure to also test electronics to make sure they are not faulty or dangerous.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
If you want the latest information on the best Hotel Executive Club Lounges, Hotel Kids Clubs and other travel information, be sure to sign up for our free newsletter full of tips and great travel ideas.
