by AnitoBopper, Dec. 19, 2007
It’s the time of year again when gift giving becomes an important part of tradition and as Christmas is just around the corner, we frantically look for bargains to give our beloved inaanaks(godchildren), 1001 of them, from last count, loved ones and friends, and try as much as possible to fit all expenses within our meager budget.
I’d like to give my two centimos worth in looking for cheapos, err... should I say bargain priced gifts to give.
Before I proceed, I’d just like to say that this is geared towards our local setting. If you’re in another part of the globe, sorry guys, maybe you can adopt some that is applicable to your situation.
For starters, there’s always Divisoria. If you happen to live in Manila and thereabouts, that’s the place to go to. In going there, just wear something comfortable and try to blend as much as possible with the crowd. No jewelry or any bling of sorts and don’t put all your money in one place.
You don’t want pickpockets and all sort of shady characters to pick you as their winning target for their trade. And, oh, btw be wary of items made in China, it may be super cheap but the lead content could make you or the recipient be retarded or something.
Don’t say I didn’t warn you! Or unless that’s what you really want for the recipient? Hmmm….. That, you didn’t hear from me, right?
If you’re not comfortable going to Divisoria, there’s always the malls and tiangges in Greenhills. In malls, there’s no haggling with prices though, but in tiangges, it’s always a good practice to get your money’s worth.
There are also two places you can go down Roxas blvd. and these are the World Trade Centerand the Mall of Asia. There’s an on going sale in the mall during weekends so just check it out.
When I was in Japan, we used to go to these stores that sell items for just ¥100 each. I do love this nail cutter that was given to me by my sister that I use to this day and it’s still the best nail cutter ever compared to others that I had before.
So if you’re really pressed for time, there are stores like these in your area and they sell knick knacks for just around P88-99. If you want to save on gift wrapping, I’d suggest wrapping the gifts yourself.
If you are the creative type and have more time than money, making gifts you make yourself would be a very nice personal gift to give. Just use your imagination and … walla…. instant gift!
If you don’t have time to go to places like Divisoria, tiangges and similar spots, there’s always the internet. In just a click of the mouse, you enter the realm bargains in cyber space. But try not to get too distracted with all the bargains you’ll see.
Because if you’re not careful, you’ll probably burn enough hole in you pocket, thru your credit card of course, and have to slave away the following year just to pay for every item you thought was the perfect gift for your loved ones only to find out later that it was recycled and given to a common friend. Sounds familiar?
So be judicious and really get to know your real friends from your basic acquaintance before trying to be a Santa. Or was that the tip on not to get distracted with bargains? Anyway, I think that’s just ADD kicking. So, just be aware of both, ok?
Last but not the least, always give quality time to your loved ones. It’s the best gift you can give to anyone. And you can give that all year round and not just during the Christmas season.
‘Tis the season to be jolly, here’s a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!
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