DUTY FREE . . . GOOD DEAL OR NOT?

[bonniejoy03]

Hi Mountie. I think the prices are about the same on cologne and perfume. Cigarettes are definitely cheaper. Liquor is cheaper. I remember in the 80's and 90's LOVING duty free because the prices seemed cheaper AND you could carry things through without the whole liquids issue. Now, I rarely buy or even stop in to the stores. Hate the hassle of trying to find a place for the stuff!

[obrienkf]

Good question. duty free for me is 'touch and go'. normally, I can get better deals on perfume and cologne around christmas time in any large chain dept store than i can at a duty free, and electronics... that's not something that i would buy without having an opportunity to 'return the silly thing'. Luggage, as well, I can find on sale anywhere else, and my own travel routine dictates that I replace luggage more frequently than most people. I look for duty free that also offers 'points' with airlines (something that is done in Australia -- with Qantas), and I buy good quality wines etc, as long as i am on a direct flight, because it has already passed thru airport security --- although that depends on what else I am carrying on, as I refuse to behave as a mule in international travel. Its 'seductive' shopping.... and a way to use up those last few bills of foreign currency. I love duty free in HKong, found duty free in Fiji a good opportunity to buy a few gifts, and have always enjoyed duty free at the Frescobaldi Wine Bar in Rome's Fiumicino ... but I check the dominant airline website before I travel, as they often have advice on what is available at duty free .. and some offer pre-departure sales of exclusive items that will be 'ready for you when you pass thru the airport' (Cathay Pacific is particularly good at that....).



kind regards

[thepiranha]

I wasn't aware that you can find out before flying what duty-free items are available. Thanks for the tip.